What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable treatments designed to restore volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. These substances are administered just beneath the skin to fill in areas that have lost volume due to aging or other factors. By doing so, dermal fillers help plump up and smooth out wrinkles and folds, effectively addressing visible signs of aging and providing a rejuvenated, youthful appearance.
These fillers come in various types, each with unique properties suited for different purposes. Some are used to enhance lip volume and definition, while others are ideal for contouring cheeks and jawlines or filling in hollow areas under the eyes. The choice of filler depends on the specific needs and goals of the patient, as well as the desired outcome.
The procedure is typically quick, often completed in less than half an hour, with minimal downtime. Generally, the results are seen immediately, with effects that can last from several months to a few years, depending on the type of filler used and the area treated.
What Are the Indications for Dermal Filler?
Dermal fillers are versatile treatments with various indications, including:
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- Enhancing lip volume and definition for a fuller, more youthful look
- Contouring the cheeks and jawline for a sculpted facial profile
- Softening the appearance of acne scars and facial depressions
- Filling hollow areas under the eyes to reduce dark circles and fatigue
- Correcting asymmetry in facial features for a balanced appearance
- Treating wrinkles and lines on the hands for a rejuvenated look
Dermal Filler Types
Dermal fillers come in various types, each designed to address specific aesthetic concerns with unique ingredients and effects tailored to enhance and rejuvenate different areas of the face and body.
According to Ingredients
When it comes to categorising dermal fillers according to their ingredients, there are four main categories with substances that are naturally already found in the body and those that are synthetically produced. These ingredients are:
- Hyaluronic Acid (HA), which is a naturally occurring substance in the body that hydrates and gels upon contact with water, offering a temporary smoothing and volumizing effect as it is gradually absorbed by the body.
- Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA), a mineral-like substance found in bones, CaHA is used in medical applications and produced without animal derivatives, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and eliminating the need for skin testing.
- Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA) is a synthetic, biodegradable polymer, PLLA is used in medical implants and stitches. It remains in the body without being absorbed, promoting collagen production over time.
- Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), a synthetic, non-biodegradable polymer is used in medical devices like bone cement and intraocular lenses. It remains in the body without being absorbed.
According to the Area of Usage
Dermal fillers are widely utilised for various cosmetic purposes, including reducing eye wrinkles and folds, enhancing lips, smoothing mouth lines and nasolabial folds, treating hair loss through mesotherapy or restoring volume to the cheeks, among other approved applications.
So, based on the area of usage there are:
- Facial fillers that include:
- Lip fillers (Enhance lip volume, shape, and definition for a fuller appearance)
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- Cheek fillers (Cheek volume restoration)
- Nose fillers (Correct nose asymmetry and minor imperfections, providing non-surgical rhinoplasty)
- Chin fillers (Add definition and structure to the chin)
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- Jawline fillers (Contour and sculpt the jawline)
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- Tear trough (under-eye) fillers (Reduce wrinkles and dark circles)
- Nasolabial fold fillers (Soften deep wrinkles and lines between the nose and mouth)
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- Marionette line fillers (Diminish the lines running from the corners of the mouth down to the chin, giving a more lifted look)
- Body Fillers:
- Hand rejuvenation fillers (Restore volume to the hands, reducing visible veins and tendons)
- Buttock fillers (Add volume and enhance shape)
- Hip dips fillers (Smooth the indentations on the sides of the hips, creating a more rounded silhouette)
- Neck fillers (Smooth wrinkles and tighten sagging skin, enhancing neck contour)
- Décolleté (chest) fillers (Improve skin texture and reduce wrinkles in the chest area)
- Hair loss fillers (Stimulate hair growth by injecting fillers into the scalp)
What Is CE Certified Filler?
A CE-certified filler is a dermal filler that has been assessed and approved to meet the European Union’s strict safety, health, and environmental protection standards. The CE marking indicates compliance with these regulations, allowing the product to be sold within the 33 EU member states. This certification ensures patient safety and builds trust in the product’s quality and reliability.
The main difference between a CE and an FDA certificate relates to where the product is approved to be sold. FDA approval means the device can be sold in the United States and exported from the US after receiving an export certificate.
Top Dermal Filler Brands
Several leading brands on the market provide high-quality dermal fillers, each offering a range of products tailored for specific uses and effects. These include:
- Belotero is known for its smooth integration into the skin, offering hyaluronic acid fillers that treat fine lines and wrinkles with natural-looking results.
- Croma PhilArt, a skin booster made from polynucleotides that improve skin elasticity and firmness by promoting collagen production and hydration.
- Cytocare, a mesotherapy treatment that hydrates and smooths skin, targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and skin aging.
- Desirial, a hyaluronic acid-based filler for vaginal rejuvenation, improving moisture and elasticity while reducing inflammation.
- Dr. Cyj, a hair care product with peptides and hyaluronic acid designed to prevent hair loss, stimulate growth, and improve scalp health.
- Ejal40, a bio-revitalising skin booster that hydrates and regenerates new skin cells with a unique HA matrix.
- Ellanse, collagen-boosting filler that reduces wrinkles and provides long-lasting volume and contouring.
- Fillmed, hyaluronic acid filler with NCTF, designed to reduce wrinkles, firm skin, and enhance lips.
- HarmonyCA, hybrid filler with hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxyapatite for immediate volume and long-term collagen stimulation.
- HyaCorp, cross-linked hyaluronic acid filler for body contouring, ideal for sculpting larger areas like glutes and hands.
- Intraline, aesthetic brand offering hyaluronic acid fillers and PDO threads for facial contouring and non-surgical skin rejuvenation.
- Jalupro, a brand offering hyaluronic acid-based fillers, masks, and gels for natural facial and body rejuvenation.
- Juvederm is a popular hyaluronic acid filler brand that enhances facial volume, smooths wrinkles, and augments lips for a youthful appearance.
- Karisma, bio-restorative soft filler with high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, CMC, and collagen, enhancing skin rejuvenation and reversing aging effects.
- Lanluma, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) filler that restores lost skin volume, stimulates collagen production, and treats sagging and aging skin.
- MaiLi, dermal fillers featuring Smart Spring technology for elasticity and natural facial movement with minimal product use.
- Neauvia, Swiss-manufactured hyaluronic acid fillers using PEG cross-linking technology for safe and effective aesthetic treatments.
- Nithya, collagen-based treatment that tightens skin, boosts firmness and elasticity, and reduces wrinkles, suitable for face, neck, and body.
- Nucleofill, skin boosters using polynucleotides for lifting, antioxidant protection, and hydration, enhancing collagen production and skin structure.
- Plasmolifting, a tissue regeneration treatment using platelet-rich plasma from the patient’s own blood, combined with a gel to promote healing and repair.
- Profhilo, a bio-remodelling treatment that uses hyaluronic acid to enhance skin quality, stimulate collagen and elastin production, and restore a youthful appearance.
- Radiesse, made of calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres, stimulates collagen production, ideal for restoring volume in deeper lines and enhancing facial contours.
- Refine, dermal fillers made of high-purity hyaluronic acid for facial rejuvenation, offering natural results and excellent biocompatibility.
- Restylane, a pioneering dermal filler brand using hyaluronic acid to deliver natural-looking results for facial enhancement.
- Revanesse, a hyaluronic acid-based fillers that effectively smooth wrinkles, enhance lip volume, and restore facial contours.
- Revofil, dermal fillers that reduce wrinkles, add volume, and rejuvenate skin for a youthful look.
- Revolax, a hyaluronic acid fillers designed to restore volume, contour the face, and smooth wrinkles with natural-looking results.
- Saypha offers high-quality hyaluronic acid fillers that address wrinkles, folds, and facial volume loss with long-lasting results.
- Sculptra, made from poly-L-lactic acid, gradually stimulates collagen production to restore facial volume and improve skin texture over time, perfect for deeper wrinkles.
- Stylage features hyaluronic acid fillers with antioxidants designed to hydrate the skin, reduce wrinkles, and restore facial volume effectively.
- Sunekos, a dermal filler combining hyaluronic acid and amino acids to improve skin texture, elasticity, and reduce wrinkles.
Results and Benefits of Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers offer a wide range of benefits. They result in effectively restoring volume to areas of the face that have lost fullness due to aging, smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, and enhance facial or lip contours. Dermal fillers also have benefits like:
- Offering immediate results with a quick and minimally invasive procedure
- Safe and well-tolerated with a low risk of adverse reactions
- Fully customisable and versatile treatments, thanks to the variety of fillers available
- Some fillers stimulate collagen production, leading to improved skin elasticity and texture over time
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
Typically, most dermal fillers provide results for 6 to 18 months before needing re-injection. The longevity of dermal fillers depends on the type of filler and the area of treatment.
For example, hyaluronic acid fillers generally last 6 to 12 months, while calcium hydroxylapatite and poly-L-lactic acid fillers may last 12 to 18 months, and PMMA fillers can provide results for several years.
Dermal Filler Pre-Treatment and Aftercare
During the consultation, the treatment provider should instruct the patient to follow certain pre and post-care guidelines. Adhering to these precautions will help reduce swelling and bruising while allowing the filler to settle properly.
Dermal Filler Pre-Treatment Instructions
To minimise bruising after dermal filler injections, follow these preparation steps:
- Discontinue any prescription medications and vitamin supplements that impact blood clotting prior to treatment
- For one to two weeks before the treatment, eat fresh pineapple, which contains bromelain, an enzyme known to reduce bruising
- Start taking arnica five days before the procedure to help reduce swelling and promote healing
- Avoid alcohol for at least two days leading up to your dermal filler appointment
Dermal Filler Post-Treatment Instructions
While patients can resume normal activities soon after treatment, following specific aftercare guidelines is crucial for optimal results. After receiving dermal fillers, patients should:
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- Avoid touching or massaging the treated area for at least 24 hours to prevent shifting the filler
- Avoid strenuous exercise
- Limit exposure to sun and heat
- Refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours
- Avoid applying makeup to the treated area for at least 24 hours
- Stay hydrated and, if swelling occurs, apply an ice pack for short intervals
Potential Side Effects
While dermal fillers are generally safe, they can cause side effects. Common side effects include redness, swelling, bruising, and itching at the injection site. These are temporary, and usually subside within a few days. However, more serious complications can occur in rare cases, such as allergic reactions, the formation of lumps, asymmetry, or infection.
Dermal Filler Contraindications
Dermal fillers are not recommended for individuals with certain health conditions, such as:
- Autoimmune diseases
- A history of hypertrophic scars or keloids
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Allergies to any filler ingredients
- Active infection near the injection site
- Bleeding disorders or the use of blood-thinning medications
- Previous adverse reactions to dermal fillers
Healthcare providers must discuss the patient’s medical history to confirm there are no dermal filler contraindications and ensure the client’s safety and well-being.
Who Can Buy Dermal Fillers And Where?
Licensed medical professionals, dermatologists, and aesthetic clinics can buy dermal fillers from reputable sources guaranteeing their quality and authenticity. At Fraya, we offer a diverse selection of top-quality dermal filler brands for medical professionals and clinics, ensuring access to the best options for achieving optimal results.
Visit our online shop to explore our wide range of products today.
FAQ
Is it safe to buy dermal fillers online?
Yes, buying dermal fillers online can be safe if you purchase from a reputable and authorised supplier. Always ensure the products are CE-marked or FDA-approved. However, if you cannot verify the authenticity and safety of the products, it poses significant risks.
Can you buy filler and do it yourself?
No, it is not safe to self-administer dermal fillers. Always seek treatment from a qualified professional to avoid health risks and ensure effective, desirable results.
Is it OK to get fillers every year?
Yes, for most fillers, it’s generally safe and even advisable to have annual treatments. Consulting with a healthcare provider helps ensure proper assessment and treatment planning, as maintenance frequency depends on your skin’s needs and the type of filler used.
Is 50 too old for fillers?
No, age is not a barrier to using dermal fillers. They can effectively restore volume and reduce wrinkles at any age. It’s important to consult with a qualified professional to explore your options.
What age is best to get filler?
There’s no specific age to start using fillers, as it depends on individual needs and goals. Many people consider dermal fillers in their late 20s or early 30s when they begin noticing early signs of aging.
