DERMAL FILLERS - HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST TYPE AND BRAND FOR YOUR NEEDS?
Dermal fillers have gained immense popularity in the field of cosmetic enhancements, offering a non-surgical solution for facial rejuvenation. As demand continues to rise, numerous brands have emerged, each offering a unique set of dermal fillers with distinct characteristics.
In this article, we will check out the diverse dermal fillers by brand, with a special focus on determining the best filler for specific aesthetic requirements. But first, let us take a look at the different types of dermal fillers and dermal filler techniques.
1. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
Hyaluronic acid-based fillers are among the most widely used and versatile dermal fillers. They provide excellent hydration and volume while promoting collagen synthesis. Renowned brands such as Juvéderm, Restylane, and Belotero offer a range of HA fillers suitable for various purposes, including lip augmentation, wrinkle reduction, and facial contouring.
2. Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers
CaHA fillers, such as Radiesse, are composed of microscopic calcium spheres suspended in a gel carrier. These fillers not only restore volume but also stimulate collagen production, providing longer-lasting results. CaHA fillers are often recommended for deep wrinkles, nasolabial folds, and hand rejuvenation.
3. Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers
PLLA fillers like Sculptra are known for their ability to stimulate collagen production and gradually enhance the skin's texture and firmness over time. These fillers are particularly suitable for treating facial volume loss, deep folds, and overall facial rejuvenation. Results may take several weeks to become visible but can last up to two years.
4. Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Fillers
PMMA fillers, such as Bellafill, contain tiny microspheres that provide structural support and stimulate collagen growth. These fillers offer long-lasting results and are often used for treating severe facial wrinkles and acne scars and enhancing facial contours. Due to their semi-permanent nature, careful consideration and expertise are essential before administering PMMA fillers.
5. Autologous Fat Transfer
Autologous fat transfer involves harvesting fat from one area of the body and injecting it into another to restore volume and contours. This technique offers natural-looking and long-lasting results, but it requires a surgical procedure for fat extraction.
Choosing the Right Filler for Your Needs
While the choice of dermal filler brand depends on various factors, including individual needs and the practitioner's expertise, here are some general recommendations:
Fine Lines and Delicate Areas (around the eyes, lips, and mouth)
When it comes to fine lines and delicate areas, several brands offer hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers that are specifically designed to provide optimal results. Here are some of the top brands known for their HA fillers suitable for fine lines and delicate areas:
- Juvéderm
Juvéderm is a well-established brand with a range of HA fillers designed to address different aesthetic concerns. For fine lines and delicate areas, Juvéderm Volbella is often recommended. It has a soft and smooth consistency that allows for precise placement and natural-looking results. Volbella can help smooth vertical lip lines, soften perioral lines (smoker's lines), and enhance lip shape and definition.
- Restylane
Restylane is another reputed brand offering various HA fillers. For fine lines and delicate areas, Restylane Silk is frequently used. Silk has a finer particle size, making it ideal for treating superficial lines around the mouth, crow's feet, and tear troughs. It provides subtle, natural-looking results with minimal swelling and downtime.
- Belotero
Belotero is known for its range of HA fillers that integrate seamlessly into the skin, providing subtle and natural outcomes. Belotero Balance is commonly used for fine lines and delicate areas. It is especially effective in treating vertical lip lines, crow's feet, and fine lines around the eyes. The filler's smooth texture and versatility allow for precise injections in delicate areas.
- Teosyal
Teosyal is a well-regarded brand that offers a wide selection of HA fillers suitable for various aesthetic concerns. For fine lines and delicate areas, Teosyal Redensity II is often recommended. It is specifically designed for the under-eye area and can effectively address tear troughs, reducing the appearance of dark circles and fine lines. The filler's unique formulation provides natural-looking results without excessive swelling.
- Revanesse
Revanesse is a rising brand known for its high-quality HA fillers. Revanesse Kiss is a popular choice for fine lines and delicate areas. It aims to enhance lip volume, redefine lip borders, and improve the appearance of vertical lip lines. The filler's smooth and flexible texture allows for precise injections, ensuring natural-looking results.
Facial Volume Loss
PLLA or CaHA fillers, such as Sculptra or Radiesse, are suitable for restoring lost volume in the mid-face, temples, and cheeks.
- Sculptra
Sculptra is an injectable filler composed of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). Unlike traditional hyaluronic acid fillers, Sculptra works by stimulating collagen production in the skin. The PLLA microparticles stimulate fibroblasts, which are responsible for collagen synthesis. Over time, the newly produced collagen gradually restores volume and improves skin texture, resulting in a natural and long-lasting outcome.
- Radiesse
Radiesse is a dermal filler that has microspheres of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) contained in a gel carrier. CaHA is a biocompatible substance found naturally in the body, making Radiesse a safe and reliable option. In addition to providing immediate volume restoration upon injection, Radiesse also stimulates collagen production, promoting the growth of natural collagen fibers over time.
Lip Augmentation
HA fillers like Juvéderm Ultra or Restylane Kysse, specifically designed for lip enhancement, can provide natural-looking results with improved shape and volume.
- Juvéderm Ultra
Juvéderm Ultra is a hyaluronic acid (HA) filler known for its versatility and effectiveness in various aesthetic treatments. When it comes to lip augmentation, Juvéderm Ultra stands out due to its soft and smooth gel consistency. This enables precise and controlled injections, allowing the practitioner to shape and define the lips with natural-looking results.
The formulation of Juvéderm Ultra includes a balance of cross-linked hyaluronic acid molecules, which provides volume and hydration to the lips. It can aid in boosting lip volume, enhancing lip contours, and minimizing fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth. The filler also integrates seamlessly into the lip tissues, resulting in a natural feel and appearance.
- Restylane Kysse
Restylane Kysse is a specifically designed HA filler tailored for lip augmentation and enhancement. It offers a unique balance between firmness and flexibility, allowing for precise placement and optimal lip contouring. The gel is formulated to provide natural movement and a soft, natural feel to the lips.
Restylane Kysse incorporates XpresHAn Technology™, which provides a combination of cross-linking and flexibility. This technology allows the filler to adapt to the dynamic movements of the lips, resulting in natural-looking and expressive results. It can enhance lip volume, define lip borders, and improve overall lip shape and symmetry.
Deep Wrinkles and Acne Scars
PMMA fillers such as Bellafill are often preferred for treating deep lines, nasolabial folds, and acne scars due to their long-lasting effects.
Bellafill is considered the best option for deep wrinkles and acne scars due to its unique composition of collagen gel and PMMA microspheres, providing immediate volume and structural support. The PMMA microspheres stimulate collagen production, leading to long-lasting results.
Bellafill's ability to lift and fill depressed areas makes it particularly effective in addressing atrophic acne scars. Its longevity, lasting several years, sets it apart as a reliable solution for deep wrinkles and acne scars, providing patients with improved skin texture and a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Complications and Risks
Although generally well-tolerated, dermal fillers can sometimes lead to complications and increase the risk for certain conditions. Short-lived fillers have short-term side effects, whereas permanent fillers may have life-long side effects. Adverse effects typically continue as long as the filler is in the skin. Short-term side effects may include pain, swelling, and bruising at the injection site. Sometimes, there are allergic reactions to the injectables. Lumps or bumps are common if the fillers are injected at the wrong site or may develop from substance clumping due to muscle activity. Arterial occlusion due to inadvertent intravascular injection or compression by the filler volume might lead to vascular compromise in some patients. It can cause skin necrosis and even blindness if the glabella, inner corner of the eye, and ala nasi are affected.
The Final Word
When considering dermal fillers for aesthetic purposes, it is crucial to seek advice from a trained professional who can evaluate your individual needs and suggest the best course of action. The choice between different filler brands and types depends on factors such as the area to be treated, desired results, longevity, and individual characteristics.
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References:
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- Kadouch JA. Calcium hydroxylapatite: A review on safety and complications. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2017;16(2):152-161. doi:10.1111/jocd.12326
- Fitzgerald R, Bass LM, Goldberg DJ, Graivier MH, Lorenc ZP. Physiochemical Characteristics of Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA). Aesthet Surg J. 2018;38(suppl_1):S13-S17. doi:10.1093/asj/sjy012
- Go BC, Frost AS, Friedman O. Using injectable fillers for chin and jawline rejuvenation. World J Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2023;9(2):131-137. Published 2023 Mar 28. doi:10.1002/wjo2.93
- Clauser L, Zavan B, Galiè M, Di Vittorio L, Gardin C, Bianchi AE. Autologous Fat Transfer for Facial Augmentation: Surgery and Regeneration. J Craniofac Surg. 2019;30(3):682-685. doi:10.1097/SCS.0000000000005257
