In the quest for youthful and rejuvenated skin, dermal fillers have emerged as a popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment. These injections offer a quick and effective solution for addressing volume loss, wrinkles, and fine lines. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the world of dermal fillers, shedding light on their types, mechanisms of action, safety considerations, benefits, and tips for choosing a qualified provider.

How do Dermal Fillers Work?

As we age, we lose collagen, the most abundant protein in the body found in the skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and cartilage. Collagen serves many purposes, including improving skin structure, strength, and elasticity. Around the age of 30, our collagen levels start to fall, causing the skin to lose its volume and elasticity, which makes fine lines and wrinkles more visible. Dermal fillers counter the aging of the skin and the depletion of collagen. When injected into the skin, these gel-like substances restore the lost volume and give the skin a smoother, fuller look. The immediate results can last from six months to two years, depending on the type of filler used. 

Benefits of Dermal Fillers

1. Restoring volume to the face

As we get older, we begin to lose the subcutaneous fat in front of the muscles in our face, which can result in sagging and wrinkles. Dermal fillers can help restore this lost volume, giving you a youthful appearance. They can also help make your facial features more symmetrical.

2. Smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles

Dermal fillers can help address the early signs of aging, usually the formation of wrinkles and creases. Dermal fillers can enhance facial contours and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth, eyes, and forehead.

3. Enhancing the overall appearance of the skin

Skin damage can occur from many causes, like excessive sun exposure, unhealthy lifestyle, or heredity. Dermal fillers can improve the texture and tone of your skin, leaving you with a brighter, more refreshed look. They can also reduce the visibility of facial scars.

Types of Dermal Fillers

1. Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found throughout the body. Its functions include keeping your eyes hydrated and moisturized and your joints, muscles, and tissue lubricated and cushioned. Hyaluronic acid is also found in the skin, where it helps to retain moisture, making it a great injectable filler for maintaining smooth, glowing skin. Results typically last anywhere from 12 to 18 months. Hyaluronic Acid-based dermal fillers include Belotero Balance, Juvederm Ultra, Restylane, and Voluma.

2. Calcium Hydroxylapatite

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) fillers are one of the industry’s most commonly used and well-studied dermal fillers. CaHA is a naturally occurring substance found in bones and teeth. However, the CaHA used in fillers is a synthetic, biodegradable version. CaHA fillers can stimulate natural collagen production in the targeted areas, making them an excellent option for augmenting the cheekbones or jawline. Results typically last from 1 to 2 years. Calcium Hydroxylapatite acid-based dermal fillers include Radiesse.

3. Poly-L-lactic Acid

Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is another synthetic, biodegradable substance that stimulates natural collagen production. Unlike other fillers, PLLA can require several sessions, and the results can take longer. However, patients can expect long-lasting results, generally over two years. Poly-L-lactic Acid-based dermal fillers include Sculptra and Sculptra Aesthetic.

What to Expect During Your Treatment

Before you start, your provider will evaluate your facial appearance and examine the targeted injection sites to ensure no complications. Medical professionals may mark specific points on your face to highlight the injection site. During your treatment, a trained healthcare provider will carefully inject the dermal filler into the targeted areas on your face. Most of the areas are your eyes, mouth, and nose. You may feel a slight pinch or discomfort during the injection, but the procedure is generally painless. You may receive an anesthetic ointment or local anesthesia to numb the skin. Each injection only takes a couple of seconds per site. You can expect to see immediate results, with little to no downtime required. After treatment, patients may experience the following side effects: bruising, redness, swelling, itching, tenderness, and numbness. More severe side effects may include the formation of nodules or bumps, infection, inflammation, allergic reaction, and vascular complications.

Finding a provider near you

To ensure safe and effective dermal filler treatment, selecting a qualified and experienced provider is crucial. M Health and Beauty offers traditional hyaluronic acid fillers and collagen builders, providing the two leading products for CaHA and PLLA fillers, Radiesse and Sculptra. Visit M Health and Beauty or call today to book an appointment.

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