Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers. What are they, and how do they work?

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in your skin and it’s responsible for maintaining moisture levels. It’s like your skin’s personal fountain of youth, keeping it plump and soft.

When injected, filler restores volume, smooth wrinkles, and lifts your skin. The results may take years off your face or hands.

Since hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in your body, it is well-tolerated and have minimal risks or adverse reactions. It’s the perfect blend of science and nature.

With their ability to sculpt, contour, and revitalise, they’re more than just beauty treatments.

Dermal fillers allow for relatively quick restoration of a youthful appearance, without a long downtime compared, for example, to a traditional surgical face lift. Most fillers can smooth out wrinkles in just one session, and the results last from 9 months to over a year. The effects are quite spectacular and allow you to restore a younger and healthier look.

Our clients often ask what’s the difference between filler and botox? Fillers work in a completely different way than botox.  Fillers fill in wrinkles or restore the lost volume on the face (for example it fills in sunken cheeks or dropped nasolabial folds). Botox relaxes muscles that are responsible for facial expressions, and with facial expressions the skin creases and wrinkles.

As we age, muscle atrophy and bone resorption become more visible. A person who previously had well-defined and plump cheeks may notice that as they age, the mid-face starts looking flatter and longer. This transformation is caused by the loss of volume in muscles and fat pads. This volume loss can be treated by dermal fillers, restoring it where needed.

Dermal filler treatments are quick and very accessible. However, like many products used in aesthetics, they are not free of certain risks or complications. Possible side effects include bruising and swelling, in extremely rare cases allergic reactions to lidocaine, the formation of subcutaneous nodules, or a vascular occlusion.

The secret to successfully correcting wrinkles and creating symmetrical and natural contours lies in the selection of appropriate dermal fillers and a good injection technique.

Each person is unique and requires a personal approach.

• The injected product binds water and leaves skin naturally smooth and plump.
• The transformation is visible immediately!
• Blanching technique can be used to fill shallow wrinkles around the mouth and eyes.
• The most common use of fillers is to plump the lips and lip symmetry.
• Face lift – lifting of the lower face contours with cheek filler.
• Filling deep wrinkles, like the nasolabial folds.
• Correcting the shape of the nose.
• Filling the tear trough.
• Correcting the shape of the jaw or chin.
• Filler can also be injected in aging hands, for the immediate result of plumping and softening.

Different types of filler are intended for different areas of the face. Softer and medium fillers are usually used for the lip augmentation, and last from 6 months up to a year. Denser or harder fillers are used on the facial areas like cheeks, chin, and jaw, as they resemble bone structure.

We are happy to help you choose the right treatment and products. During the consultation we discuss different types of treatments and their outcome so you can get the best results to meet your expectations.

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in the human body, particularly in the skin, eyes, and joint fluids. It plays a vital role in maintaining moisture, as it can hold an impressive amount of water, making it essential for skin hydration.

As we age, the body’s production of hyaluronic acid decreases, leading to dry skin and the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Due to its ability to retain water, HA is widely used in skincare products and treatments to restore moisture, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Hyaluronic acid is also used in medical procedures, such as joint injections for arthritis and as a filler in aesthetic treatments to add volume and smooth out wrinkles.

One of the most popular dermal fillers are fillers based on hyaluronic acid. Side effects are very rare, mainly redness, swelling and bruising at the injection site.

Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved in case of some complications.

The hyaluronic acid fillers last from several months up to two years. Their longevity depends on the treatment area, viscosity of dermal filler and the metabolism of the client.

Studies suggest that repeated injections of hyaluronic acid can stimulate the body to produce collagen, which also plumps up the skin.

There are several synthetic dermal fillers commonly used in cosmetic procedures. These fillers are created in a laboratory.

1. Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA): PLLA is used to stimulate collagen production in the skin, helping to improve volume and reduce wrinkles. It is often used for treating deep facial lines and restoring facial fullness.

Sculptra (PLLA): Used to stimulate collagen production and improve facial volume over time.

2. Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA): PMMA is a semi-permanent filler that is used to treat deep wrinkles and acne scars. It is considered a long-lasting option for facial rejuvenation.

Bellafill (PMMA): A semi-permanent filler used to treat smile lines and acne scars. Artefill (PMMA): A dermal filler designed for long-lasting correction of facial wrinkles.

3. Calcium hydroxylapatite: This filler is used to restore volume and improve moderate to severe wrinkles. It is also used for non-surgical facelifts.

Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite): A filler that provides immediate volume and stimulates collagen production for long-lasting results.

It’s important to book a consultation to determine the most suitable dermal filler for your specific cosmetic goals.

The advantage of synthetic dermal fillers is that they last longer and increase the collagen formation.

Dermal fillers used in aesthetics are considered very safe. However, you should follow these tips before booking your treatment:

Don’t choose the procedure because it’s cheaper. If someone offers filler injections at a much lower than usual price, it is likely that the quality of the product or aesthetician’s skills are insufficient.

All procedures must be performed in hygienic conditions. Towels, blankets and any other bed covers should be removed, regardless of how comfortable that is. All the equipment and products must be sterile and disposable.

Never buy dermal fillers yourself. There are a lot of questionable products available online, dermal fillers and other injectables should only be bought from trusted sellers and pharmacies.

Some possible risks of dermal fillers include:

1. Swelling and bruising at the injection site are common but usually temporary side effects.

2. Redness and Pain: Some redness, tenderness, or pain at the injection site may occur and typically subsides within a few days.

3. Allergic Reactions: While extremely rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to the filler or lidocaine in the filler.

4. Infections are a potential risk, although not very common. Proper sterilisation and cleanliness during the treatment minimise this risk. After the treatment, following aftercare and not exposing fresh injection points to the germs is also very important (for example avoid touching your face with unwashed hands).

5. Lumps or Bumps may be felt in the first 2-4 weeks but usually subside on their own. Persistent ones can often be corrected by a message.

6. Granulomas are small, firm lumps that may form in response to the filler. They can sometimes require treatment.

7. Nodules are like granulomas and can develop around the injection site.

8. Vascular Complications: Injecting filler into blood vessels can lead to serious complications, including tissue damage if the filler obstructs blood flow for longer. This is extremely rare and can be dissolved.

9. Migration: Filler may shift from the intended injection site over time. That can be caused by improper placement of the filler or for example an overactive muscle.

10. Overcorrection or Undercorrection: Getting the desired result may require an adjustment. Sometimes, additional filler may be needed, or existing filler may need to be dissolved.

It’s very important to discuss potential risks and benefits before undergoing any dermal filler treatment. We can help you make an informed decision and provide guidance on minimising these risks.

After treatment with dermal fillers avoid vigorous physical activity for approximately 3 days.

You should also avoid tanning and use a sunscreen with a minimum SPF50 sunscreen.

Do not massage or touch the treated areas for 24 hours after the procedure to avoid product migration. In case of bruising, you can apply arnica cream.

Dermal filler is used to enhance cheeks to restore volume and to lift lower face contours.

1. Consultation: We’ll discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns.

2. Treatment Preparation: The treatment area will be cleansed, and if needed a topical anesthetic applied to minimise your discomfort.

3. Using either a fine needle or a cannula, we’ll inject the agreed previously dermal filler into the marked areas of your cheeks. The process is relatively quick, often taking less than 30 minutes.

4. We may sculpt and mold the filler if needed by massaging it gently.

5. Instant Results: The magic happens right before your eyes as your cheeks regain their youthful fullness, and lift the lower face contour. Properly treated cheeks also help to improve the look of your nasolabial folds and marionette lines.

6. Minimal Downtime: Cheek filler treatments typically involve little to no downtime. Some swelling is expected but you can return to your daily activities straight after the procedure.

7. Long-Lasting: Enjoy your enhanced cheeks, results can last from several months to over a year.

8. Potential Side Effects: While side effects are usually mild and temporary, they can include swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection sites.

Cheek filler treatments are an excellent way to achieve a refreshed and lifted look especially if you experience some mid face volume loss.

Discover the transformative power of cheek filler!

Most people are satisfied with their dermal fillers treatment and after a year or two they come back to repeat the treatment to maintain the results. Hyaluronic acid filler over time is naturally and gradually removed from the body.

In some rare cases, when someone wants to have the filler removed, the process can be reversed.

An enzyme called hyaluronidase can be injected into the area with the filler, and very quickly and permanently removes the filler from the body.

The same enzyme is used to remove and dissolve filler in case of complications like a vascular occlusion.

Dermal fillers are a non-surgical cosmetic treatment used to address a variety of concerns and enhance facial features. Here’s what dermal fillers can do:

1. Restore Volume: Dermal fillers can restore lost volume in areas like the cheeks, temples, and under the eyes (tear trough), giving a more youthful and fuller appearance to the face.

2. Smooth Wrinkles and Fine Lines: They can be used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, such as smile lines, marionette lines, and crow’s feet.

3. Enhance Lips: Dermal fillers can add volume and shape to the lips, creating a plumper and more defined look.

4. Contour Features: Fillers can help contour and define facial features, including the jawline, chin, and nose.

5. Lift Sagging Skin: They can lift and tighten sagging skin, providing a non-surgical alternative to a facelift.

6. Revitalise Hands: Dermal fillers can be used to rejuvenate hands by adding volume and minimising the look of veins and tendons.

7. Correct Scars: Some fillers can be used to fill in depressed scars, such as acne scars, to create a smoother skin texture.

8. Non-Surgical Nose Job: Fillers can be used to reshape and enhance the appearance of the nose without surgery.

Dermal fillers work by injecting a gel-like substance under the skin or muscle to add volume, plump up wrinkles, or lines, and create a more youthful, refreshed look. They are a versatile and effective way to address various cosmetic concerns.

Botox and dermal fillers are both popular non-surgical cosmetic treatments, but they serve different purposes and work in very different ways.

1. Purpose:

• Botox (Botulinum Toxin): Botox is primarily used to reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movements. It temporarily relaxes specific muscles, such as those between your brows responsible for frowning or these that raise your brows responsible for forehead wrinkles.
• Dermal Fillers: Dermal fillers are used to add volume, plump the skin, and fill in static wrinkles or lines that are present even at rest. They can also enhance facial features like the cheeks and lips.

2. Mechanism of Action:

• Botox: Botox works by blocking nerve signals to the muscles, preventing them from contracting and causing wrinkles. It’s intended for treating lines caused by muscle movement.
• Dermal Fillers: Fillers use various substances like hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, or poly-L-lactic acid to physically fill in and add volume to the skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and adding contour.

3. Areas of Treatment:

• Botox: Typically used on the upper face to address forehead lines, frown lines between the eyebrows, and crow’s feet, and on the lower face for treating smoker’s lines, DAO, teeth grinding or gummy smile.
• Dermal Fillers: Applied to various areas of the face, including the cheeks, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, lips, and under-eye hollows tear trough.

4. Duration of Results:

• Botox: Results from Botox usually last around 3 to 6 months.
• Dermal Fillers: The duration of results can vary depending on the type of filler used, but they often last from several months to over a year.

5. Onset of Results:

• Botox: Results typically become noticeable within a few days, with the full effect appearing after about two weeks.
• Dermal Fillers: Results are usually seen immediately after the treatment.

6. Safety:

• Both Botox and dermal fillers are considered safe when administered responsibly, but they can have potential side effects and risks, which should be discussed with your provider.

Botox is more focused on relaxing muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles caused by movement, while dermal fillers are used to add volume and fill in lines and wrinkles. The choice between the two depends on your specific concerns and goals.

Whether Botox is better than fillers, or vice versa, depends on your individual goals and the specific concerns you want to address. Both Botox and dermal fillers have their unique advantages, and the choice between them should be based on your aesthetic objectives.

Botox May Be Preferred When:

1. You want to reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movements, such as frown lines, crow’s feet, or forehead wrinkles.

2. Your primary concern is lines and wrinkles on the upper part of your face.

3. You’re looking for a quick treatment with little to no downtime.

4. You prefer results that take effect within 14 days and last for a few months.

Dermal Fillers May Be Preferred When:

1. You want to add volume, contour your face, and fill in static wrinkles or lines that are present even at rest.

2. You’re concerned about lines and wrinkles in various areas of the face, such as the nasolabial folds, marionette lines, lips, or cheeks.

3. You want immediate results and are willing to accept longer-lasting effects, which can range from several months to over a year.

4. You’re seeking a non-surgical solution for facial rejuvenation. You may want to lift lower face, or add volume to your mid face.

Ultimately, the decision should be made in consultation with a professional who can assess your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan. In many cases, a combination of both Botox and dermal fillers may provide the best results to address different aspects of facial aging.

Dermal fillers and skin boosters are popular cosmetic treatments used to combat the signs of aging, but they have different purposes:

Dermal Fillers:

Dermal fillers are excellent at restoring lost volume and lifting sagging skin. They target deep wrinkles, fine lines, and hollow areas, providing immediate and noticeable results. These treatments are perfect for enhancing facial contours and plumping lips. However, it’s crucial to note that while fillers correct volume loss, they don’t directly improve skin condition or texture. Their primary focus is on structural enhancement.

Skin Boosters:

On the other hand, skin boosters, such as Profhilo or Sculptra, are designed to improve skin quality. They stimulate collagen production and hydrate the skin from within, leading to a smoother, more radiant complexion. Skin boosters are an excellent choice for addressing fine lines, dullness, and overall skin texture. They work gradually over several sessions to rejuvenate the skin’s vitality.

Dermal fillers are perfect for lifting and adding volume, while skin boosters enhance overall skin quality and texture by promoting collagen production. To achieve a comprehensive anti-aging solution, many people combine these treatments. Consult us today to determine the best approach for your unique needs.

There is no ideal age to start getting dermal fillers and it varies from person to person. It depends on the individual aging process and personal preferences.

Aging Process: The aging process is very individual. While some people may develop noticeable signs of aging in their 30s or even earlier, others may maintain youthful look well into their 40s or 50s. It’s crucial to consider the extent and speed at which your skin ages when deciding on dermal fillers.

Personal Needs: Dermal fillers aren’t exclusively about addressing age-related concerns. Many people choose this treatment to correct facial asymmetry or enhance their natural features, such as adding volume to flat cheeks or defining a short chin, regardless of their age. These can be enhanced regardless client’s age.

Ultimately, the decision to have dermal filler treatment should be based on your unique goals and needs. We can assess your specific situation and recommend the most suitable treatment plan, whether it’s to combat signs of aging or enhance your facial harmony. It’s about achieving the look that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

You must be 18 or older to receive any aesthetic treatments.

Injections can be uncomfortable. The level of pain varies depending on several factors, including the area being treated and an individual pain threshold:

1. Lips: The lips are a sensitive area, and injections here can be uncomfortable. However, many dermal fillers contain lidocaine, a local anesthetic, to minimise any discomfort. Also, a topical anesthetic is applied before the procedure.

2. Cheeks: Injections in the cheeks are generally not very painful. The discomfort is often described as a mild pinching sensation.

3. Nasolabial Folds (Smile Lines): These injections can cause a moderate level of discomfort, like a pinch, but it’s usually well-tolerated.

4. Tear trough: The under-eye area is delicate, and injections may cause slight discomfort but are not described as painful.

5. Hands: Dermal filler injections in the hands may cause very minimal discomfort.

We use topical numbing creams to minimise pain during the procedure. Additionally, any discomfort is often brief, and many people find the aesthetic benefits of dermal fillers outweigh the temporary discomfort.

Dermal fillers have come a long way in achieving a natural look that enhances your appearance.without the ‘overdone’ look often associated with cosmetic procedures.

1. Precision and Expertise: We aim for achieving natural results. We understand facial anatomy and can place the filler in a way that enhances your features while maintaining balance and harmony.

2. Gradual Buildup: Achieving a natural look often involves a gradual approach. Instead of using a large amount of filler all at once, smaller amounts can be applied over multiple sessions, allowing for adjustments, and avoiding an ‘overfilled’ appearance.

3. Customised Treatment: We can tailor the treatment to your specific needs, making sure that the final result aligns with your individual beauty goals.

4. Subtle Enhancements: Many people choose dermal fillers not for dramatic changes but to address subtle signs of aging. This approach allows for the preservation of unique facial features.

Dermal fillers can achieve results that are both effective and very natural. The key is to communicate your aesthetic preferences for a personalised, harmonious outcome.

The cost can vary widely depending on several factors, including the location, the type of filler and the amount used:

1. Location: The cost of dermal fillers can differ significantly based on your location. In London prices tend to be higher compared to smaller towns or rural areas. For instance, a filler treatment in London may cost more than in a smaller town in Hertfordshire or Essex.

2. Brand of Filler: There are various types and brands of dermal fillers, each designed for specific purposes. Prices can vary depending on the brand and type used. Juvederm or Restylane, are among the more expensive price points.

3. The cost also depends on the number of syringes used during the treatment. Some areas may require more filler, increasing the overall cost.

While cost is a consideration, it’s essential to prioritise the quality and safety of the treatment over cheap alternatives.

When considering filler treatments, the quantity of filler you need can vary based on the treatment area and your goals. Filler comes in 1ml or 1.1ml prefilled syringes. 1ml of dermal filler is a standard measurement, and its sufficiency depends on where it’s applied:

Lips: For lip augmentation people usually get anything from  0.5ml to 1 ml. 1ml can provide a noticeable enhancement, adding volume and definition. It’s often enough for subtle yet significant changes. 0.5ml is usually used to slightly plump up the lips but without changing the shape. Naturally small lips may require less filler – 0.5ml, and bigger lips may need more – 1ml.

Cheeks: 1ml per cheek (2ml total) may be suitable for cheek contouring or enhancing the cheekbones, offering a subtle lift and definition. Usually to create a lower face lift we may suggest using a little bit more. 0.5ml per side should be enough to enhance cheeks in younger clients.

Nasolabial Folds: 1ml or even less is usually enough to correct the nasolabial folds, 1ml will soften moderate lines around the mouth, with natural results.

Tear trough: Treating the under-eye area typically requires less filler, usually that 1ml is more than enough to address under eye hollows.

Individual factors, such as the extent of volume loss and personal preferences, play a significant role. Some may opt for a more subtle look, while others might need additional filler for a more dramatic change.

Email us with any questions, we can assess your unique needs and guide you on achieving your desired results.

Blanching is an advanced technique to effectively treat static wrinkles, those unwelcome lines that often linger on our faces. It uses an ultra-fluid hyaluronic acid filler.

The ultra-superficial injections create small, temporary white papules directly under the wrinkle, hence the name ‘blanching.’ These papules typically vanish within 1 to 2 hours.

Here’s why blanching is so good:

1. Fast Results: Those bothersome wrinkles seem to disappear almost instantly.

2. Natural Results: It seamlessly integrate with your skin, providing results that look and feel natural.

3. Minimal Downtime: You can get back to your daily routine without extended recovery periods.

4. Customised Precision: We can tailor the treatment to address your specific wrinkle concerns, for a personalised approach that targets even the most stubborn lines.

Blanching is a great way to approach wrinkles. It offers a quick and natural solution to facial lines. This technique’s unique qualities makes it a great choice in the world of aesthetic treatments.

The first dermal fillers developed by scientists were based on collagen extracted from cows. They were effective and achieved natural effects but did not last too long. In most cases, the filler began to absorb about a month after injections. As these fillers were obtained from animal sources, they had a fairly large percentage of allergic reactions.

New methods of collagen processing reduced the risk of side effects. There are also new forms of synthetic collagen that are very safe for people. Collagen injections do not last as long as other fillers, also their results are more subtle. Possible side effects are the same as with other types of dermal fillers: an allergic reaction, redness or bruising at the injection site.

Collagen-based filler products include:

• Cosmoderm
• Evolence
• Fibrel
• Zyderm
• Zyplast

In autologous fillers mostly a fat tissue is used. Fat that can be taken from thighs, buttocks, or abdomen, is then processed, and injected where required. Both procedures can be performed during the same appointment. The results are usually short-lived and the client may require multiple injections. The advantage of autologous filler is that it can help you get rid of fat from unwanted places and at the same time improve the appearance of the other parts of the body.

Another type of autologous product used to fill tissues is PRP platelet-rich plasma.

This treatment may be called vampire facelift. We take blood from the client’s arm and place it in a special vial inside a centrifuge. After spinning that blood for appropriate length of time and at a correct speed we receive the PRP, it can be then injected into the face, neck, décolleté or hands. The effects of this treatment last 12-18 months. This method is very safe as the blood comes from the client itself and therefore there is a very low risk of any allergic reactions.