What is Argenesis as a filler? Differences from hyaluronic acid and what remains unknown

Argenesis is a gel filler made from agarose, a polysaccharide derived from seaweed[1]and is used to enhance facial volume and contour[2]. Research is still limited, and how long the effect lasts and whether it can be dissolved are not as clearly understood as with hyaluronic acid.

What is Argenesis made of?

The main ingredient, agarose, is a polysaccharide derived from seaweed[1]. It is a material that integrates well with the body and has been used as a scaffold for cultivating cells and in tests to evaluate safety in the body[3].

A method of using agarose filler with varying gel thickness depending on facial location has been reported[2]. In the same report, it is described as a gel type that does not easily attract water[2].

How is it different from hyaluronic acid?

A major difference is whether it is known whether it can be dissolved and reversed. Hyaluronic acid is characterized by the ability to be intentionally reversed using a degrading enzyme, and some other types of fillers do not have this property[4].

Whether Argenesis can be dissolved with the same enzyme was not shown in the papers reviewed this time. On the other hand, there is a report stating that it could be a candidate for people who had complications or dissatisfaction with hyaluronic acid and wish to try another temporary filler[2].

What results have studies shown?

In current reports, major complications are not prominent. In a report involving 700 people, complications such as nodules or granulomas (small masses formed by body reaction) were not reported at any time point[3].

Another report found that bruising was minimal or absent, resolved within one week, and no other major complications occurred[2]. However, both are reports from limited facilities, and no research directly comparing it with hyaluronic acid has been found.

What are the common risks of fillers?

As with any injection, it is important to be aware of the common risks associated with fillers as a baseline for Argenesis as well. A report compiling 38 papers lists inflammation, infection, swelling, and skin necrosis[5].

If blood vessels become blocked, it can lead to skin necrosis or blindness, and granulomas can develop after a period of time[5]. For people undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment, fillers require more careful consideration[6].

What is still unknown about Argenesis?

The papers reviewed did not provide figures indicating how long the effect lasts. Whether it can be dissolved and how it compares to hyaluronic acid remain unclear.

Therefore, it cannot be stated definitively that it is 'long-lasting' or 'highly safe.' It is important to distinguish between what is known and what is unknown when asking about it.

Things to confirm before treatment

Three key points: First, the location where it will be injected and the gel thickness suited to that location[2]. Second, how to address it if the shape is unsatisfactory or complications occur[4]. Third, any diseases being treated or types of fillers previously received[6].

Which is better for your face—Argenesis or hyaluronic acid—cannot be decided from an article alone. After explaining the location where you want the filler and the desired changes, confirm with a medical consultation.