Profhilo Injection Protocol: The Complete Clinical Guide to the BAP Technique

Key Takeaways

The BAP technique uses just 10 injection points (5 per side) compared to 40+ with traditional skin boosters

Each BAP point receives 0.2ml of Profhilo in the superficial subcutaneous layer using a 29G needle

Standard protocol requires 2 sessions 4 weeks apart, with maintenance every 6 months

The five key injection points are: zygomatic protrusion, nasal base, tragus, chin, and mandibular angle

Aspiration before injection and proper depth control are critical for patient safety

Profhilo has revolutionised skin bioremodelling, but its effectiveness depends entirely on correct administration. Unlike traditional dermal fillers, Profhilo's high concentration of hyaluronic acid (HA) requires precise placement using the Bio Aesthetic Points (BAP) technique developed by IBSA Derma.

This guide provides aesthetic practitioners with a comprehensive clinical protocol for Profhilo injection, covering anatomical landmarks, treatment schedules, injection technique, and post-treatment management.

What is the BAP Technique (Bio Aesthetic Points)?

The Bio Aesthetic Points (BAP) technique is a standardised injection protocol developed specifically for Profhilo administration. IBSA designed this method to maximise the product's unique diffusion properties whilst minimising patient discomfort and treatment time.

Traditional HA skin boosters require 40 or more injection points across the face. The BAP technique achieves superior results with just 10 strategic points (5 per side). This reduction is possible because of Profhilo's hybrid cooperative complex structure, which allows the product to spread naturally through the tissue planes.

The technique was developed with three core objectives:

1. Optimise diffusion – Strategic placement in areas with high tissue mobility ensures even distribution across the treatment zone
2. Minimise risk – BAP points are located in safe zones, away from major vessels and nerves
3. Reduce discomfort – Fewer injection points mean less trauma and faster treatment sessions

The chart above illustrates the efficiency advantage of the BAP technique. By reducing injection points by 75%, practitioners can deliver treatments faster whilst patients experience significantly less discomfort.

The 5 Key Injection Points Breakdown (Per Side)

Mastering the BAP technique requires precise identification of anatomical landmarks. Each of the five points per side has been selected for optimal safety and diffusion.

1. Zygomatic Protrusion

Location: The most prominent point of the zygomatic arch, typically 1-2cm lateral to the lateral canthus.

Landmark identification: Ask the patient to clench their teeth. Palpate along the zygomatic arch to locate the highest point of the bone. This point sits above the masseter muscle insertion.

Clinical note: This is the most superior BAP point and initiates upward diffusion across the mid-face.

2. Nasal Base

Location: At the junction where the nasal ala meets the cheek, approximately 1cm lateral to the nasolabial fold.

Landmark identification: The point sits in the triangle formed by the nose, nasolabial fold, and orbital rim. Avoid injecting directly into the nasolabial fold itself.

Clinical note: This point treats the mid-face area and supports diffusion towards the perioral region.

3. Tragus

Location: Approximately 1cm anterior and superior to the tragus of the ear.

Landmark identification: Place your finger on the tragus and move 1cm forward towards the face. The injection point should be in the soft tissue just anterior to the cartilage.

Clinical note: This point ensures lateral face coverage and jawline enhancement.

4. Chin

Location: Central chin, approximately 1cm above the inferior border of the mandible.

Landmark identification: Midline of the chin, in the soft tissue between the mentalis muscle and bone. Avoid the mental foramen, which sits more laterally.

Clinical note: This is the only midline BAP point and supports lower face diffusion.

5. Mandibular Angle

Location: At the angle of the mandible, approximately 1-2cm superior to the bone's inferior edge.

Landmark identification: Ask the patient to clench their teeth. Palpate the angle where the mandible turns from the ramus to the body. The injection point sits just above this landmark.

Clinical note: This point provides jawline definition and ensures even distribution to the lower third of the face.

“The BAP technique transformed our Profhilo treatments completely. We’ve reduced appointment times by 40% whilst improving results. Our clients experience minimal discomfort, and we’ve had zero complications since implementing the standardised protocol. Documenting the injection points in Pabau’s client records gives us complete treatment traceability.”

Camille Armstrong

Founder / Co-Owner, Secret Enhancements

Clinical Protocol: Treatment Schedule and Maintenance

Profhilo's treatment protocol follows a specific timeline designed to optimise tissue remodelling and collagen stimulation.

Initial Phase: Building the Foundation

The initial treatment course consists of two sessions, four weeks apart.

Session 1 (Week 0):

• Administer 2ml Profhilo (one syringe)
• Inject 0.2ml at each of the 10 BAP points
• Total treatment time: 10-15 minutes

Session 2 (Week 4):

• Repeat the identical protocol
• Same dose, same points
• The second session reinforces the bioremodelling effect initiated in session one

The four-week interval allows the first treatment to stimulate fibroblast activity before the second dose amplifies this response. Patients typically begin seeing improvements after the first session, with optimal results appearing 4-8 weeks after the second treatment.

Maintenance Phase: Sustaining Results

After completing the initial two-session protocol, patients have two maintenance options:

Option 1: Six-month cycle

• Repeat the full two-session protocol every 6 months
• Maintains optimal tissue quality and hydration
• Recommended for patients seeking maximum anti-ageing benefit

Option 2: Quarterly maintenance

• Single session every 3-4 months
• Suitable for patients with good initial response
• More flexible for busy schedules

Dosage Precision

Each BAP point receives exactly 0.2ml of Profhilo. With 10 points total (5 per side), one 2ml syringe provides the complete treatment dose.

Practitioners should not increase the dose per point or add additional injection sites. The BAP technique's effectiveness relies on consistent dosing at anatomically correct locations.

Profhilo Injection Technique: Depth, Angle, and Aspiration

Correct injection technique is critical for both safety and optimal results. Profhilo must be deposited in the precise tissue plane to achieve proper diffusion.

Needle Specification

Use a 29G (13mm) needle for all BAP injections. This gauge provides several advantages:

• Sufficient length to reach the superficial subcutaneous layer
• Fine enough to minimise patient discomfort
• Adequate flow rate for Profhilo's viscosity

Injection Depth: The Superficial Subcutaneous Layer

Profhilo must be injected into the superficial subcutaneous tissue, not the dermis or deep fat compartments.

Depth landmarks:

• Deeper than intradermal (no whealing)
• Shallower than deep subcutaneous fat
• In the loose connective tissue immediately below the dermis

Technique: Insert the needle at a 45-degree angle, advancing to approximately 10mm depth. The product should flow easily without resistance. If you encounter resistance, you're likely too shallow (dermis) or against fascia.

The Bolus Injection Technique

Profhilo is administered as a bolus (single depot) rather than a threading technique.

Procedure:

1. Insert the needle to the correct depth
2. Aspirate gently to confirm you're not in a vessel
3. Inject the full 0.2ml slowly (over 10-15 seconds)
4. Withdraw the needle whilst maintaining slight pressure with your non-dominant hand
5. Do not massage the area

The bolus will be visible as a small raised bump immediately after injection. This is normal and expected. The product will begin diffusing within 24-48 hours.

Aspiration: A Critical Safety Step

Always aspirate before injecting Profhilo. Whilst the BAP points are in relatively safe zones, individual anatomy varies.

Aspiration technique:

• Pull back gently on the plunger before injecting
• Look for blood flashback in the syringe
• If blood appears, withdraw the needle and reposition
• Never inject if you see blood return

Vascular complications, whilst rare with the BAP technique, can be serious. Aspiration is your primary safety mechanism for avoiding intravascular injection.

For comprehensive guidance on obtaining proper consent before aesthetic procedures, review the requirements for digital consent forms to ensure full documentation of risks and benefits.

Post-Treatment Care and Clinical Management

Proper post-treatment guidance is essential for optimal results and patient satisfaction.

Managing the "Profhilo Bumps"

Patients will have visible raised areas (papules) at each injection point immediately after treatment. This is normal and indicates correct superficial placement.

Patient instructions:

• The bumps are temporary and will resolve within 24-48 hours
• Do not massage or manipulate the treated areas
• Avoid applying makeup for 6 hours post-treatment
• The product will diffuse naturally through tissue planes

Some practitioners photograph the injection sites immediately after treatment to reassure patients that the appearance is expected.

Activity Restrictions

Advise patients to avoid the following for 24-48 hours post-treatment:

Heat exposure:

• Saunas and steam rooms
• Hot yoga or intense cardio
• Direct sun exposure
• Hot showers on the face

Physical activity:

• Strenuous exercise
• Heavy lifting
• Activities causing excessive facial movement or sweating

Heat and increased blood flow can exacerbate swelling and may affect product distribution.

Documentation Best Practices

Comprehensive record-keeping protects both practitioner and patient. Modern aesthetic clinic software makes this documentation seamless.

Essential documentation:

• Pre-treatment photographs (frontal, both lateral views)
• Batch number and expiry date of product used
• Injection points marked on a face map
• Any adverse reactions or patient concerns
• Post-treatment photographs at follow-up appointments

Using dedicated before and after photo tools integrated with patient records ensures consistent documentation and helps track treatment outcomes over time.

Signs Requiring Clinical Review

Instruct patients to contact the clinic immediately if they experience:

• Severe pain at injection sites
• Blanching or colour changes in the skin
• Visual disturbances
• Rapidly increasing swelling beyond the injection sites
• Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, purulent discharge)

Whilst serious complications with the BAP technique are rare, early recognition and intervention are critical if they occur.

For clinics managing multiple practitioners and treatment protocols, robust patient records systems ensure every team member can access complete treatment history and respond appropriately to patient concerns.

FAQs for Practitioners

Can I use a cannula for Profhilo?

Whilst some practitioners prefer cannulas for other injectable treatments, the BAP technique was developed for needle administration. IBSA's clinical studies and training materials specify a 29G needle.

Cannulas offer theoretical advantages for safety, but the BAP points are designed to be low-risk zones when proper needle technique is used. Additionally, the precise superficial placement required for optimal Profhilo diffusion is easier to achieve with a needle.

If you choose to use a cannula, ensure you:

• Maintain the correct superficial depth
• Deliver the full 0.2ml bolus at each BAP point location
• Have received appropriate training in cannula technique for bioremodelling products

Can Profhilo be combined with Botox or fillers?

Yes, Profhilo can be combined with other aesthetic treatments, but timing is important.

Safe combination protocols:

• Profhilo first, botulinum toxin after: Administer Profhilo, then wait 2 weeks before botulinum toxin injections
• Botulinum toxin first, Profhilo after: Inject botulinum toxin, then wait 2 weeks before Profhilo treatment
• Dermal fillers and Profhilo: Can be performed in the same session if different anatomical areas are treated, or wait 2-4 weeks between treatments in the same zone

The two-week interval prevents products from affecting each other's placement or diffusion patterns. Many practitioners offer "combination packages" with appropriate spacing built into the treatment schedule.

Clinics using MedSpa software can automate scheduling to ensure appropriate intervals between combination treatments.

What are the most common side effects?

The BAP technique has an excellent safety profile when performed correctly. Common, expected side effects include:

Immediate (resolves within 24-48 hours):

• Visible papules at injection sites
• Mild tenderness
• Minor swelling
• Occasional small bruises

Less common (occurs in <5% of patients):

• Moderate bruising
• Asymmetric swelling
• Headache

Rare complications:

• Infection (requires sterile technique)
• Granuloma formation
• Allergic reaction (extremely rare with HA)
• Vascular compromise (avoidable with proper aspiration and technique)

How does Profhilo differ from traditional HA fillers?

Profhilo is fundamentally different from traditional hyaluronic acid dermal fillers in structure, mechanism, and application.

Key differences:

Profhilo treats skin quality from within by stimulating fibroblasts to produce new collagen and elastin. Fillers provide structural support and volume replacement. These are complementary treatments rather than alternatives.

Conclusion: Standardising Your MedSpa Protocols

The Profhilo BAP technique represents a paradigm shift in injectable skin treatments. By standardising the protocol around 10 precisely defined anatomical points, IBSA has created a treatment that is simultaneously more effective, safer, and faster than traditional skin booster approaches.

For aesthetic practitioners, mastering the BAP technique requires:

• Thorough understanding of facial anatomy and safe injection zones
• Consistent adherence to the 0.2ml per point dosing protocol
• Proper patient selection and realistic expectation setting
• Meticulous documentation and follow-up scheduling

As bioremodelling treatments become increasingly popular, clinics that implement standardised protocols and comprehensive documentation systems will differentiate themselves through superior outcomes and patient safety.

Modern practice management systems help aesthetic clinics maintain protocol consistency across multiple practitioners, automate treatment scheduling, and provide the documentation infrastructure required for medical defence and regulatory compliance.

Ready to streamline your injectable treatment protocols? Book a demo to see how Pabau helps leading aesthetic clinics standardise care, reduce administrative burden, and scale with confidence.

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