BLOG

Doctors' Point

"What's the difference between Rituo and Rijuran?" is a question frequently asked by patients considering skin rejuvenation treatments during outpatient visits to cosmetic surgery clinics.

 

In the field of cosmetic surgery, the focus is on approaches that not only add volume but also enhance the skin’s own function and structure; a prime example of this is Rejuran, and a new option that has emerged is Lituo.

 

Although both are “skin-nourishing injection treatments,” there are clear differences in their ingredients, targets of action, duration of effects, and indications. In this article, from the perspective of a cosmetic surgeon, we will systematically compare the key points of Lituo and Rejuran, providing an easy-to-understand explanation of how to choose between them based on your goals, how to consider using them in combination, and how to interpret “Before & After” results.

What Is Rejuran? The Basics Every Cosmetic Surgeon Should Know

Rejuran is a skin booster whose main ingredient is salmon-derived polynucleotide (PN).

 

PN consists of DNA fragments and creates an environment similar to that of wound healing, supporting the activation of fibroblasts and the regulation of the inflammatory balance. It has a wide range of applications in cosmetic surgery, with a primary focus on “comprehensive skin quality improvement,” including fine lines, loss of firmness, enlarged pores, redness, acne scars, and uneven skin texture.

• Main Ingredient: Polynucleotide (PN)

• Source: Salmon DNA

• Features: Adjustable restoration environment, high biocompatibility, viscous consistency

Formulation Variations and Approaches to Indications

There are several variants of Rejuran, including Rejuran i, which is specifically designed for the eye area; Rejuran HB, which contains moisturizing ingredients; and Rejuran S, which targets superficial skin texture.

 

In cosmetic surgery, we tailor the concentration, viscosity, and injection depth to the specific area and condition, providing meticulous treatment for skin prone to redness, acne scars, and enlarged pores.

Expected Mechanism

The core principle of Rejuran is that it acts on the “repair environment” at the cellular level. It supports the function of fibroblasts, soothes micro-inflammation, and regulates the turnover of the epidermis and dermis, aiming to improve skin texture, evenness, and elasticity over a period of several weeks to several months.

What Is Lituo? The ECM Approach Gaining Attention in Cosmetic Surgery

Rituo is a next-generation skin booster designed with a focus on the extracellular matrix (ECM). Its main ingredient is human-derived acellular dermal matrix (hADM). By utilizing the dermal “scaffold”—the dermis stripped of its cellular components—it aims to create an environment that supports the rearrangement and reconstruction of collagen and elastin.

 

In the field of cosmetic surgery, it is gaining attention as a suitable option for addressing age-related loss of firmness, thinning skin, lack of elasticity, and fine lines.

• Main Ingredient: Human-Derived Acellular Dermal Matrix (hADM)

• Contains: ECM components such as collagen, elastin, laminin, and fibronectin

• Features: Designed to promote tissue support and structural reconstruction

What Skin Concerns Is It Suited For?

This treatment is particularly suitable for those whose skin has lost its firmness and who notice “sagging” or fine crepe-like wrinkles around the cheeks and temples, as well as for those who want to prioritize “restoring firmness and elasticity.”

 

Because it takes a structural approach, it is well-suited to meet the needs of cosmetic surgery patients seeking a natural, youthful appearance.

The Differences Between Lituo and Rijuran: A Comprehensive Comparison of Ingredients, Effects, Duration, and Indications

Differences in the Settings Where We Work

• Rejuran: Optimizes the cellular repair environment (fibroblast activation, regulation of low-grade inflammation, normalization of metabolism)

• Rituo: Focusing on the dermal matrix (ECM), it helps strengthen and rebuild the collagen scaffold.

To put it simply, Rejuran “revitalizes cells,” while Lituo “reinforces the foundation of a house.” Because their purposes differ, even though both aim to “improve firmness,” their approaches are clearly distinct from the outset.

Ingredient Comparison

• Rejuran: Polynucleotide (PN) derived from salmon DNA. It is viscous and provides a supportive matrix that mimics the wound healing environment.

• Rituo: Human-derived acellular dermal matrix (hADM). Replenishes ECM components and supports the reconstruction of the dermal support structure.

Trends in Effects on Firmness, Radiance, Pores, and Redness

While both products can be expected to improve firmness and radiance, Rejuran tends to be more versatile in addressing pores and redness by regulating disrupted metabolism and inflammatory tendencies, whereas Lituo enhances overall elasticity and texture by reconstructing the extracellular matrix (ECM).

 

None of these are instant solutions; rather, they are cosmetic surgery “gradual treatments” where you’ll notice subtle changes over a period of several weeks to several months.

Pain and Downtime

It is generally known that PN preparations have high viscosity and tend to cause discomfort during injection. Many cosmetic surgery clinics use anesthetic creams or nerve blocks in conjunction with these treatments, and redness, swelling, bruising, and unevenness typically subside within a few days.

 

At Rituo, while the experience may vary depending on the injection site and the choice of needle or cannula, redness, mild swelling, bruising, and puffiness generally subside within a few days to a week. Individual results may vary depending on the injection volume, technique, and body type.

Duration and Recommended Schedule

For both procedures, the key is undergoing multiple sessions. A common approach used in cosmetic surgery involves three sessions every 3 to 4 weeks initially, followed by maintenance sessions every 6 to 12 months.

 

The duration of results and satisfaction levels depend on age, lifestyle habits, UV exposure, whether or not you smoke, and how consistently you follow your skincare routine.

Safety and Risk Management

As with any injection treatment, there is a common risk of bruising, swelling, temporary redness, and tenderness. Be sure to disclose your medical history, allergies, current medications, autoimmune conditions, and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding during your initial consultation, and follow the cosmetic surgeon’s recommendations.

 

Domestic approval of the product, its distribution channels, storage conditions, and the practitioner’s level of experience all have a direct impact on safety.

A Cosmetic Surgeon's Perspective: Which One Should You Choose?

“The deciding factor is not ”which is better,“ but ”which is best suited to the goal.” In cosmetic surgery, based on a skin assessment (palpation, visual examination, and imaging) and the patient’s lifestyle, we comprehensively design a treatment plan—including whether to use a single agent or a combination, as well as the injection depth, treatment area, and frequency.

Who Rituo Is Best Suited For

• The main complaint is a loss of firmness and elasticity due to aging

• I am concerned about the thinness of my skin and would like to add volume from the base up.

• I want to smooth out fine lines and “crepe-like” texture

• I want to achieve a natural, youthful look that emphasizes texture

Who Should Use Rejuran?

• Problems such as redness, excess oil, acne scars, and enlarged pores are noticeable

• I suffer from recurring skin problems and want to regulate my metabolism.

• I was satisfied with my previous Rejuran treatments

• I want to comprehensively improve fine lines and rough skin texture

Can They Be Used Together? Examples of Treatment Plans

They can be used together.

 

For example, a two-step approach is possible: first, using Rejuran to prepare the skin for repair, and then, once the skin’s reactivity has subsided, using Rituo to replenish the ECM and enhance the skin’s overall texture. Whether these treatments are administered on the same day or at different times is optimized on a case-by-case basis depending on the characteristics of the formulations, the inflammatory response, and the patient’s schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Which is more effective, Lituo or Rijuran?

A. The purposes are different. If you prioritize skin restoration, choose Rejuran; if you prioritize structural support, choose Lituo. Based on a skin assessment, our cosmetic surgery clinic will recommend the appropriate treatment.

Q. Does it work right away?

A. Do not expect immediate volume enhancement like that of hyaluronic acid. Expect changes in skin texture over the course of several weeks to several months.

Q. How many times should I take it?

A. The standard course consists of three sessions, followed by maintenance treatments. Combining these treatments with lifestyle changes can help ensure that the cosmetic results last.

Q. Can it be combined with other treatments?

A. These treatments can be used in combination with Dermapen, Potenza, hydrafacials, and various laser treatments; however, managing inflammation is the top priority when determining the order and intervals between treatments. Please follow your cosmetic surgeon’s treatment plan.

Consultation Process and Aftercare at a Cosmetic Surgery Clinic

The first session begins with goal-setting and an assessment of your suitability. The safety culture of cosmetic surgery involves simultaneously developing a plan to address lifestyle habits, skincare, UV protection, and oral supplements (such as vitamins and antioxidants), and starting treatments with a “gentle and broad” approach.

 

After the procedure, be sure to cool the area, use a mild moisturizer, and apply high SPF/PA sunscreen throughout the day. Avoid bathing, drinking alcohol, and strenuous exercise for 24 to 48 hours. If you have bruising, consider using a topical treatment containing vitamin K or arnica.

Understanding "Before & After" Correctly

"Before & After" images represent a compilation of individual variations. It is essential to standardize lighting, facial expressions, and camera settings, and to confirm the observation period (e.g., at 3 months). Relying on a single image is not sufficient; adopting a perspective that tracks changes over time using multiple photographs helps prevent errors in decision-making in cosmetic surgery.

Estimated Fees and Schedule

Costs vary depending on the treatment, the number of sessions, the treatment area, and the practitioner’s experience. Estimates are typically provided after an initial consultation, and some cosmetic surgery clinics may suggest paying for the required number of sessions in installments. It’s reassuring to have a clear understanding of the costs, including medium- to long-term maintenance expenses, and to discuss the return on investment in advance.

Summary

Both Rituo and Rejuran are skin boosters designed to naturally improve skin texture, but they differ in their ingredients, mechanisms of action, and the specific skin concerns they address. It’s easier to understand them if you think of Rejuran as an approach that optimizes the skin’s repair environment, while Rituo is an approach that supplements the ECM to support the skin’s foundation.

 

Which option is best for you depends on your age, skin type, the specific concerns you wish to address, and your desired results. To choose the treatment that’s right for you, it’s important to undergo a thorough consultation at a cosmetic surgery clinic and select your treatment only after fully understanding your eligibility, the expected results, and the downtime involved—this will lead to greater satisfaction.

 

▷ Rituo Re2O (Bunaju) Treatment Page

▷ Counseling Appointment Page