When your smile lines become nothing to smile about, dermal fillers can bring a little joy back into your expression. Dermal fillers, or injectable fillers, are minimally-invasive ways to reduce lines, plump up those lips and cheeks, smoothen complexion, and revive that fresh, youthful face.
What makes them a favorite among the celebrity elite is how quickly they can be injected—less than an hour—and how fast you see results. With little to no side effects and downtime as well as FDA approval, they are great way to turn back the clock even if only for a short while. Let’s be clear, dermal fillers are a temporary fix. Depending on your budget, that may be the only downside.
Choosing the Right Dermal Filler for You
There are several branded dermal fillers on the market that are approved for use in the United States. Our board-certified dermatologists and physicians can help you choose the right one for your skin type to accomplish your specific goals.
Temporary Injectable Fillers
For those concerned with injecting synthetic chemicals into their bodies, hyaluronic acid (HA) is a popular choice. This natural substance is derived from the fluid around the eyes and the body’s connective tissue, as well as in lower concentrations in cartilage, joints fluid, and skin tissue. It is by far the most popular ingredient in dermal fillers and is found in the popular JUVÉDERM®, Restylane®, and Perlane®, treatments. How long do they last? About 6 months to a year. The Derm Group is qualified to safely provide all three of these temporary dermal fillers.
You’ll get the best results when using these dermal fillers for:
- Worry, frown, marionette, and smoker’s lines
- Acne and some facial scars
- Crow’s feet
- Cheek depressions
- Nasolabial furrows (smile lines)
Semi-Permanent Injectable Fillers
So. maybe six months to a year of results isn’t long enough for you. Semi-permanent injectable fillers, which include brand’s like RADIESSE® and Sculptra® Aesthetic, offer great results that last up to 18 months. That said, they are a bit different in chemical and application than the temporary options.
Radiesse is the prominent brand of calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHa), a mineral-like compound found in human bones. While you do get long-lasting results, there are a few things to note. It’s not recommended for areas of thin skin like under eyes or lips. The thickness of the product can cause nodules or lumps, though they typically dissipate.
For best results, use this product for:
- Smile, marionette, and frown lines
- Facial creases
- Improve facial wasting and sinking
- Back of hands
Alternatively, if you are not concerned with using natural products and are comfortable with a semi-permanent synthetic filler, Sculptra is well-regarded. It uses poly-L-lactic acid to stimulate your body’s own collagen production. Sculptra is also biodegradable and non-toxic. Now, with this dermal filler you won’t get immediate results. You’ll start to see the change gradually over about a month and will need a few treatments to maximize the benefits. But, it lasts up to two years and does wonders for laugh lines, deep smile lines, and thin lips.
If you are looking for better skin texture and evenness, dermaplaning might be a better option. Whatever your skin goal is, The Derm Group can help steer you in the right direction.