Blog ❯ What is dermal filler?

What is dermal filler?

Contents

Defining dermal fillers
How do fillers work?
Different types of fillers
Benefits of fillers
Reasons to get dermal fillers
Dermal filler safety considerations, side effects, and risks
What to do before getting fillers
What to expect when getting dermal fillers
Aftercare for dermal fillers
Final words on fillers

Do you ever wish you could turn back the clock on aging? Since time machines don’t exist, dermal fillers are the next best thing. This treatment is straightforward, suitable for most skin types, and offers enhanced skin rejuvenation.

Are you ready to discover more about this simple yet effective skin treatment? We discuss the various types of fillers and the benefits of getting them. We also highlight before and after care, potential side effects, and risks.

Defining dermal fillers

A dermal filler is a cosmetic injection. It has a gel-like texture and helps plump up the skin.

There are various reasons to opt for these treatments. They’re an excellent option for beauty enthusiasts worried about wrinkles. They’re also ideal for people who want to treat certain conditions.

These injections are a less invasive alternative to other forms of skincare. Facelifts may even be a thing of the past if fillers keep gaining traction.

The substances used in fillers can be natural or synthetic. There are different types of fillers, meaning you can select the best option for your needs. The most popular ones typically contain hyaluronic acid.

How do fillers work?

A practitioner injects the gel-like substance into the dermis layer of your skin. The exact location depends on what area you’re looking to target.

The substance acts like collagen and helps add volume to soft tissue. It also assists with smoothing out wrinkles and making your skin supple. Fillers also have certain hydrating qualities. They aid in restoring the skin’s youthful structure.

The results are almost instant, and they’re also long-lasting.

Different types of fillers

There are various types of injectables. Some may prefer a wrinkle filler that lasts a long time. Others may want something that adds volume. Let’s explore the options below.

Hyaluronic acid fillers

These fillers top the list for many beauty enthusiasts. The substance occurs naturally in the body. It’s present in the fluid of the eyes and joints. Hyaluronic acid also has a role as a lubricant in other tissues.

As you mature, your body produces less hyaluronic acid. The result is a loss of moisture and skin with an aged appearance.

Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers help restore volume, as they have hydrating properties. Beauticians use these injectables to treat fine lines, wrinkles, and folds. In some cases, hyaluronic acid assists with creating a better skin structure.

The effects of these injectables are temporary. Results last anything from six months to two years.

Polymethylmethacrylate fillers

The name “polymethylmethacrylate” is quite a mouthful, and it’s more commonly known as PMMA. The substance got the FDA’s approval in 2006 and has risen in popularity since then.

Polymethylmethacrylate fillers mainly treat nasolabial folds. They’re also suitable for moderate acne scars on cheeks. The injectables contain bovine collagen and microballs to volumize the skin.

Due to the content of these dermal fillers, you first need to undergo a skin test. It occurs 2–4 weeks before the procedure. The results are long-lasting, sometimes up to five years.

Poly-L-lactic acid fillers

Poly-L-lactic acid is also known as PLLA. It’s primarily used to help offset the thinning of fat pads on the face. This condition is called lipoatrophy. The FDA approved PLLA in 2004 for this treatment.

In 2009, these injectables became popular as fillers around the mouth. They received FDA approval in the same year for nasolabial folds, wrinkles, and contouring.

PLLA helps create structure and volume in the face as a bio-stimulatory filler. It assists the skin in producing more collagen, an essential protein for connective tissue. The results can last up to two years.

Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers

Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers typically target deep wrinkles. Cosmetic professionals also administer these injectables to help with skin rejuvenation on the neck and chest. Practitioners sometimes use them in conjunction with lidocaine.

Similarly to hyaluronic acid, the results are immediate. With proper aftercare, these facial fillers last up to a year.

Benefits of fillers

The advantages of fillers are vast. Some of the benefits include:

  • Fillers help plump up your skin.
  • Fillers are non-invasive compared to other anti-aging protocols.
  • Fillers are administered quickly and cause minimal discomfort.
  • Fillers offer almost instant results.
  • Fillers are suitable for various areas of skin.
  • Fillers provide long-lasting results.

Reasons to get dermal fillers

Now that we’ve touched on the benefits, you might wonder what fillers can help with. Here are some of the most common reasons to get filler:

  • To reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles associated with aging.
  • To reduce the appearance of crow’s feet.
  • To smooth smile lines.
  • To eliminate the visibility of acne scars.
  • To soften the visibility of dark circles and bags under the eyes.
  • To plump up hollow and sunken areas of the face, cheeks, and neck.
  • To add volume to the lips.
  • To reduce the appearance of lines on nasolabial folds.

Dermal filler safety considerations, side effects, and risks

Dermal fillers don’t have an extensive list of negative side effects. While there are some mild discomforts, none are too severe.

Most of the side effects are external and go away automatically after a while. Let’s take a closer look at some of the more common potential discomforts:

  • Redness in the region of treatment.
  • Slightly visible bruising.
  • Tenderness to touch.
  • Itching near the treated skin area.
  • Slight pain that lasts several days.

In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur. These can manifest as tissue infections or visible sores. Cosmetic professionals can usually help resolve issues swiftly. Alternatively, administer a course of prescription antibiotics.

What to do before getting fillers

Getting dermal filler is a straightforward process that doesn’t take much time. Its rising popularity has earned it the name “the lunch hour lift”.

There are certain actions you have to take before the procedure. The most essential ones are:

  • Do thorough research on the available options. If necessary, take precautionary tests for allergies. These measures are more crucial with polymethylmethacrylate fillers, which contain bovine collagen.
  • Study the options carefully and note the advantages and drawbacks of each type of filler. Doing this allows you to make an informed decision.
  • Avoid any hair removal in the area you wish to treat for two days before treatment.
  • Don’t consume any alcohol for three days before your appointment.
  • Avoid over-the-counter pain medication for 24 hours before your treatment.
  • Stop any supplements seven days before your appointment.
  • Avoid blood thinners.
  • Avoid turmeric and fish oils
  • Avoid dental procedures for two weeks before your treatment.

What to expect when getting dermal fillers

Once you arrive, a cosmetic professional will confirm if you’ve followed the care advice. You get a detailed list when you make your appointment.

The treatment typically starts with a topical cream. A practitioner applies it to your skin. It numbs the region to minimize the discomfort of receiving the injection. They then sterilize the injection site and administer the dermal filler.

At LIVV Natural, we use injectables with hyaluronic acid. It’s a natural option, and you’ll notice a positive difference in your skin almost immediately. There’s usually no recovery period needed. You can continue your daily activities after treatment.

It’s advisable to avoid doing anything strenuous for 48 hours afterward. Be sure to follow the aftercare instructions given by your cosmetic practitioner.

Some redness, bruising, and tenderness may occur. The final effects become visible after 2–3 weeks.

Aftercare for dermal fillers

After treatment, try to facilitate healing as much as possible. There are simple actions you can take to speed things up.

  • Stay hydrated to amplify the volumized appearance.
  • Avoid direct sunlight for a few days.
  • Avoid wearing makeup for 24 hours after your treatment.
  • Avoid rubbing or touching the site of the injection.
  • Don’t engage in intense physical activity for 24–48 hours after the procedure. It could increase blood flow and cause the filler to move from the treatment area.
  • Use cold packs to alleviate pain, swelling, or bruising.

Final words on fillers

Dermal fillers are a revolutionary, non-invasive skin care solution. These injectables have multiple benefits. They help you maintain a youthful appearance and restore your skin’s structure.

Now you know more about fillers and what advantages they offer. Why not book an appointment with LIVV Natural? We’d love to help you achieve your skincare goals.

Author: Dr. Jason Phan NMD – Founder of LIVV Natural – Anti-aging – regenerative medicine – peptide therapy