Nowadays, people are actively looking for the next magical elixir to plump their skin and smooth their smile lines and crows' feet. The one treatment that has consistently produced results is dermal fillers. Dermal fillers are massively popular among celebrities, skin enthusiasts and regular people.

For skincare enthusiasts interested in improving their appearance after drastic weight loss, severe health conditions, or aging, here's all you need to know about dermal fillers. Before we dive further into the benefits of this non-surgical cosmetic procedure, what are dermal fillers?

What are dermal fillers?

Injectable dermal fillers are nonsurgical cosmetic procedures that reduce smile lines and wrinkles. Usually, the treatment takes less than an hour, and the pain threshold can range from mild to moderate. Results are almost instant and can last three months to one year.

Temporary vs. permanent dermal fillers

The cosmetic industry offers different types of dermal fillers, including temporary and permanent dermal fillers.

Temporary Dermal Fillers: Temporary dermal fillers are the most popular type of dermal fillers, and they come in three other forms: calcium hydroxylapatite dermal fillers, hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers, and collagen-based fillers. They offer better comfort and flexibility, as they easily adapt to the facial structure and create a natural look. These types of dermal fillers are often used to smooth wrinkles to produce a youthful look, pronounce the cheekbones, and even augment the lips.

Permanent Dermal Fillers: Permanent dermal fillers are long-lasting dermal fillers that are not easily decomposed or broken down by the body. They are not the preferred dermal fillers under the eyes; instead, they are injected into thick and hollow parts of the body, such as the nasolabial folds. If you are wondering how long dermal fillers last, permanent dermal fillers are projected to last up to five years or even more in certain people.

Dermal fillers vs. Botox

When it comes to choosing between dermal fillers vs botox for smoothing facial lines, it's important to consider certain factors, such as your budget and possible risks. In treating any skin condition, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, as treatment might require a combination of one or more other kinds of procedures. You may need to choose either one or even both to produce the desired result you have in mind.

Dermal fillers are generally used to treat static wrinkles and other kinds of deep-set wrinkles. They are also more versatile than Botox and can be injected into almost every part of the body. For instance, botox cannot be injected into your lips and other areas of the body as it can impede the neuromodulators present. If you are looking to smooth dynamic wrinkles that only show even if you move your face, Botox is a perfect treatment as it limits facial movement, which also conceals these wrinkles from showing.

Dermal fillers for acne scarring

Dermatologists also use dermal fillers for acne scarring, as they help fill the depressed slayer underneath your skin, a common telltale of atrophic acne scars. Dermal fillers are usually the last resort for acne-atrophic scars caused by collagen loss. Usually, these scars cannot be treated with lasers or chemical peels. Dermal fillers do not only fill skin depressions; they can also trigger the production of collagen.

Types of dermal fillers

Depending on the severity of the wrinkle or depression, there are different types of dermal fillers available. Each of these dermal fillers has unique effects and longevity:

Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers

Hyaluronic acid injections are popularly used to reduce depression caused by acne scarring or injuries, and the results are almost instant. They are also great for nasolabial furrows, crow's feet, and plumping the lips. Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers contain hyaluronic acid, which is a natural compound found in tissues and cartilage and is safe to use. Popular brands with hyaluronic acid are Puragen, Restylane, and Hylaform.

Polyalkylimide dermal fillers

This type of dermal filler is often classified as semi-permanent, as it has features of both temporary and permanent dermal fillers. It is often proffered for plumping the lips and restoring facial volume loss due to terminal illnesses. The active compiled has little to no reaction with the human body, which means it is easily compatible. Popular brand names of dermal fillers with polyalkylimide include Aquamid.

Polylactic acid

This synthetic dermal filler triggers collagen production when injected into the body. Despite being synthetic, it is non-toxic and can be degraded by the body. Polylactic acid is also an active material used in manufacturing suture materials. It acts like a collagen stimulator and is often injected into the lower half of your face to treat smile lines and nasolabial folds. However, the result takes time, and you may require occasional touch-ups. A common brand name is Sculptra.

How to Sleep After Dermal Fillers

Many people often wonder how to sleep after dermal fillers to prevent pressure on the injected sites. Dermatologists recommend you sleep in an upright position for at least 5 hours without mounting pressure on the site. Lying on your back is the safest sleeping position to prevent the fillers from migrating. On your first night of treatment, keep your head elevated by using more pillows to prevent swelling.

Are dermal fillers safe?

Before scheduling any dermal filler treatment, it's quite normal to ask questions like, “Are dermal fillers safe?” Aside from the cost of dermal fillers, many skin enthusiasts worry about the long-term effects of dermal fillers. All you need to know is that injectable dermal fillers are safe when done correctly by an experienced and professional practitioner.

How long do dermal fillers last?

While there are permanent dermal fillers, they all have a threshold before they dissolve. This period depends on the product used, the area treated, and your metabolism. There is no defined answer to “How long do dermal fillers last?” They differ for all types of dermal fillers. Generally, dermal fillers used to smooth thin facial wrinkles last between 6 and 12 months, while those that fill deeper wrinkles can last for more than a year.

Long-term effects of dermal fillers

There's no doubt that injecting dermal fillers under the eyes or in any other part to enhance your features can be a great way to improve your confidence; however, there are some drawbacks to doing so. Excessive dependence on dermal fillers can worsen aging, especially when you compare different dermal fillers before and after pictures. For some patients who have consistently used dermal fillers for a decade or more, the facial muscles are more likely to look saggy and stretched out, and thus they have to resort to other invasive cosmetic procedures like facelift surgery.

How Much Do Dermal Fillers Cost?

The average cost of dermal fillers depends on the active product. According to statistics provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, hyaluronic acid dermal fillers cost $794; the average cost of non-hyaluronic acid dermal fillers can be $1000 or more.

Where can I get dermal fillers near me?

Before you search “dermal fillers near me," ensure you scrutinize the results by checking the reviews from past customers. You can also walk in and meet the professionals before choosing one. Consider asking your friends who have gotten similar dermal filler procedures or checking your town's directory or online advertisement. It is essential to make the right decisions by researching extensively to get the best result.