New Scientific Framework Enables Comparison of Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Filler Crosslinking technologies in the market
Croma-Pharma announces the publication of the latest report “A Scientific Framework for Comparing Hyaluronic Acid Filler Crosslinking Technologies” in the GELS Journal.
The report, co-authored by the internationally recognised aesthetic experts Dr Joel L. Cohen and Dr Konstantin Frank, provides in-depth analysis of the physicochemical properties of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers from various manufacturers. A total of 23 commercially available HA fillers from five leading manufacturers (Allergan Aesthetics, Croma-Pharma, Galderma, Merz Aesthetics and Teoxane) were scientifically analysed to enable cross-technology comparison. The findings mark a step forward in the transparent comparison of HA filler technologies.
Dipl. Ing. Anto Puljic, the first author and member of Croma-Pharma’s Process Development team, states:
“This publication shows how categorising dynamic and consistency parameters clarifies the physicochemical properties of HA fillers, highlighting their direct clinical benefits.
Croma’s Macro Core Crosslinking Technology allows for the variation of dynamic parameters to meet diverse clinical needs while maintaining stable consistency parameters.”
Dr David Kuroki-Hasenöhrl, Director of Development at Croma-Pharma, emphasises:
“This study provides a much-needed standardised framework for the scientific evaluation of HA fillers, offering clinicians an evidence-based tool to support product selection for individualised treatment planning.”
The report highlights how key parameters, such as rheological characteristics, gel content, extrusion force, water uptake, and particle size distribution, vary not only across manufacturers but also within product lines, reflecting their diverse intended clinical applications. Importantly, the categorisation into dynamic (performance-driven) and consistency (handling-driven) attributes offers practical value for aesthetic practitioners, enabling more informed product selection and enhanced treatment precision and patient outcome.
Co-Author and plastic surgery resident Dr Konstantin Frank highlights:
“With years of experience as a practitioner, I know how challenging it can be to navigate today’s crowded market. This framework serves as a robust tool for assessing products by their physicochemical properties and enhancing overall product understanding.”
This framework marks a significant step toward clarity, standardisation and evidence-based decision-making in an increasingly complex aesthetic filler market.
The link to the full report can be found here: https://www.mdpi.com/2310-2861/11/7/487
References: 1 Puljic, A., Frank, K., Cohen, J., Otto, K., Mayr, J., Hugh-Bloch, A., & Kuroki-Hasenöhrl, D. (2025). A Scientific Framework for Comparing Hyaluronic Acid Filler Crosslinking Technologies. Gels, 11(7), 487. https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11070487