Skin boosters are injectable treatments that place fine amounts of hyaluronic acid into the skin to improve hydration, texture and glow. They suit people with dry, dull or crepey skin who want fresher skin rather than added volume. At ZARA Aesthetic Medical Clinic, 304 Edgware Road, London W2, a Skin Booster (face) session is £250, following a consultation.
For adults aged 18 and over only, and we may ask for photo ID.
What are skin boosters?
Skin boosters are a type of injectable treatment designed to hydrate the skin from within. Most are based on hyaluronic acid, a sugar-based molecule your body already makes, which holds water and helps keep skin supple. With age, sun exposure and everyday stress, levels drop and skin can start to look tired, rough or thin.
Instead of sitting in one spot to add shape, a skin booster is spread through the skin in many tiny deposits. The aim is a more even, hydrated look across the whole treated area. People in London often describe it as skin that looks rested, which is a fair way to set expectations.
What skin boosters in London can help with
Skin boosters are usually chosen for skin quality concerns rather than lines caused by movement or loss of volume. At your consultation we will look at what is bothering you and say honestly whether this treatment is a good fit.
- Dryness and a dehydrated, tight feel that moisturiser alone does not seem to fix
- Dull or uneven-looking skin that has lost some of its natural glow
- Fine, crepey lines on the cheeks and lower face
- Rough texture and a slightly thin look to the skin
- Skin that looks tired after a stressful period or a long winter in the city
Skin boosters or dermal fillers: which do you need?
This is one of the most common questions we hear. Both treatments can use hyaluronic acid, but they do different jobs. A filler is a thicker gel placed to restore or add volume and shape in a specific area, such as the cheeks or lips. A skin booster is a lighter product spread across the skin to improve hydration and quality.
If your main concern is hollowness or a loss of contour, dermal filler treatment may suit you better. If your face shape is fine but your skin looks flat and dry, a skin booster is usually the more sensible place to start. Some people choose both over time, and we will talk through the order that makes sense for you.
Who skin boosters suit, and who should wait
Skin boosters are often chosen by adults from their late twenties onwards who want healthier-looking skin with a natural finish. They also appeal to people who would rather not change the shape of their face at all.
Treatment may not be suitable for everyone. We will ask about your health and medicines first, and may advise you to wait or choose something else if any of the following apply.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have an active skin infection, cold sore or inflamed acne in the area
- You have certain autoimmune or bleeding conditions, or take blood-thinning medicines
- You have had a reaction to hyaluronic acid or similar products before
- You have a big event in the next few days and cannot risk visible bruising
What happens at your skin booster appointment
Appointments at ZARA are booked as 40 minutes, which leaves time to talk before anything happens. Every treatment here starts with a consultation and medical assessment.
- We discuss your skin concerns, medical history, medicines and what you hope to see.
- Your skin is examined and photographed for your records only if you agree.
- The area is cleansed, and comfort options are discussed with you.
- The product is placed in small amounts across the treated zones using a fine needle.
- We go through aftercare and what to expect over the coming days before you leave.
Skin booster results and how long they last
Small bumps at the injection points usually settle within a day or two. Most people notice the skin looks more hydrated over the following two to four weeks as the product settles. Results vary from person to person and depend on your skin, lifestyle and the plan agreed.
Skin boosters are commonly given as a course of a few sessions spaced several weeks apart, followed by occasional top-ups. Effects typically last several months, as hyaluronic acid is gradually broken down by the body. Your practitioner will suggest a realistic plan at consultation rather than a fixed package.
Aftercare and possible side effects
Side effects are possible with any injectable treatment and will be explained before you agree to go ahead. The most common are redness, small raised bumps, mild swelling, tenderness and bruising at the injection points. Less commonly, infection, lumps or an allergic reaction can occur, and you should contact us if anything worries you.
- Avoid touching or rubbing the area for the rest of the day
- Skip make-up for around 12 hours if you can
- Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga and hard exercise for 24 to 48 hours
- Keep alcohol to a minimum for the first day to help limit bruising
- Use a gentle cleanser and an SPF, and hold off on strong acids or retinoids for a few days
Skin booster prices at ZARA, Edgware Road
A Skin Booster (face) session at ZARA is £250. All prices are per session, and your final plan and price are confirmed at consultation, including how many sessions are recommended for your skin.
The clinic is at 304 Edgware Road, about 50 metres from the Bakerloo line entrance at Edgware Road station, so it is easy to reach from nearby Marylebone, Paddington and the canal basin and Maida Vale on the same line. We are open Monday to Saturday from 10:30am to 8pm, and Sunday and bank holidays from 1pm to 5pm, so an evening slot after work is realistic. Browse the full treatment menu or book by WhatsApp, phone or email.
Skin boosters: your questions answered
Do skin boosters change the shape of my face?
They are not designed to. Skin boosters are spread thinly through the skin to improve hydration and quality, so your features should look like yours. If you want added volume or contour, we will talk you through other options at consultation.
How many skin booster sessions will I need?
Many people start with a short course of sessions spaced a few weeks apart, then have occasional maintenance treatments. The right number depends on your skin, and your practitioner will recommend a plan after assessing you.
Does the treatment hurt?
Most people describe a series of small pricks with some stinging. Comfort varies from person to person, and we will discuss options to make you more comfortable before we begin.
Can I go back to work afterwards?
Many people return to normal activities the same day, but small bumps, redness or bruising can be visible for a day or two. If you have an important event, it is sensible to book at least a week or two before it.
Can skin boosters be combined with other treatments?
Often, yes. Some people pair them with collagen-focused microneedling or a facial on a different day. We will advise on timing so treatments do not overlap in a way that irritates your skin.
Are skin boosters suitable for the neck or hands?
Our listed skin booster price covers the face. For the neck and hands, we also offer mesotherapy, which you can read about on our mesotherapy page. Ask at consultation which is more suitable for you.
Is there an age limit?
Injectable aesthetic treatments are for adults over 18. Beyond that, suitability depends on your skin and health rather than age, and we will tell you honestly if we do not think a skin booster will help.




