Most people are at least peripherally familiar with dermal fillers, considering they have shot up in popularity in recent years. Yet many people remain unsure about what exactly goes into these injections, what they can do, and who they’re right for. Read on to learn the answers to these important questions and more.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are an extremely popular, non-surgical, and minimally invasive cosmetic procedure. The procedure consists of injecting small amounts of filler solution into precise locations just below the surface of the skin to target unwanted fine lines and wrinkles.
As your collagen reserves are depleted with age, repeated facial expressions can leave you with fine lines and wrinkles where you once had soft and smooth skin. Dermal fillers work by filling in the empty space below your skin where collagen has been lost due to aging. By filling in this space, dermal fillers can help restore volume and smooth out the skin.
Understanding the Different Types of Dermal Fillers
There are several types of dermal fillers, but the two most common types are hyaluronic acid-based fillers and collagen-based fillers. Each type of dermal filler behaves a little differently, so it’s important to know the differences between the two.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Hyaluronic acid is a common ingredient found in skin care products due to its hydrating effects. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which means it attracts nearby moisture and retains it for a certain amount of time.
When used in dermal fillers and injected under your skin, hyaluronic acid has the same moisture-attracting effects, which is what makes it so effective at adding volume to a specific area.
Hyaluronic acid fillers are by far the most common choice for addressing common signs of aging. Some of the top hyaluronic acid fillers available today include:
- Juvéderm
- Volbella
- Voluma
- Restylane
Dermal filler injections that use hyaluronic acid gel can last for between four months and a year. Hyaluronic acid is a compound that your body produces naturally, so it’s safe to inject a synthesized form of it.
Collagen Fillers
Collagen is one of the main compounds responsible for skin elasticity and suppleness. It’s easy to see why fillers with collagen are an attractive option. Rather than fill the empty space by attracting moisture, collagen fillers simply fill the empty space with collagen.
However, it’s important to note that collagen fillers do not usually significantly increase the amount of collagen your body produces, and they tend to wear off quicker than hyaluronic acid fillers. You can expect collagen fillers to last, on average, for two to three months before needing a touch-up.
Why Do People Choose to Get Dermal Filler Injections?
The decision to get fillers is a highly personal one. However, there are several benefits of dermal fillers that usually convince people to go through with the procedure.
Below are some of the most common reasons people choose to get dermal fillers at Bayside Medspa in Norfolk, VA.
Fillers Can Address Multiple Cosmetic Concerns
Dermal fillers are versatile and can be used to address a variety of common cosmetic concerns, including:
- Frown lines
- Laugh lines
- Crow’s feet
- Forehead lines
- Vertical lip lines
This makes them an attractive option for many people who want to target multiple areas or are looking for a treatment that can evolve with them as they age.
Treatment Is Quick and Easy
Dermal filler treatment is very quick and easy. We carefully and precisely inject filler into the agreed-upon areas in just a couple of minutes. Going over the necessary aftercare usually takes longer than the treatment itself.
There Is No Downtime
Since dermal fillers are a non-surgical procedure, no anesthesia is ever used, and no downtime is required after the treatment. You can immediately resume your normal activities after receiving treatment, and there are very few restrictions you must follow.
The Results Are Not Permanent
Unlike surgical procedures, dermal fillers do not lock you into a long-term commitment. The exact length of time dermal fillers last will depend on what kind of filler you choose, but no dermal fillers are permanent. That means if you ever want to go back to aging naturally, you always have that option.
Treatment Is Highly Customizable
There is no cookie-cutter treatment when it comes to dermal fillers at our office. We believe in personalizing every treatment to fit your needs. That’s why we listen carefully to your concerns and make the appropriate recommendations based on what you’re hoping to achieve.
So whether you wish to plump up your lips or just minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, a personalized dermal filler treatment plan can help get you there.
What Is the Best Age to Get Dermal Filler Injections?
The truth is, there is no right or wrong age to get dermal fillers. This treatment is just as appropriate for patients in their 40s or 50s with significant signs of aging as it is for patients in their 20s with minimal signs of aging.
In fact, many young people choose to get dermal fillers at the first sign of aging to help slow the natural aging process and prolong their youthful appearance.
Are Dermal Fillers Right for Me?
At Bayside Medspa, we can help you determine whether dermal fillers are right for you. We are happy to help adults in Norfolk, VA, and the surrounding areas—including Norfolk and Hampton, VA—address their cosmetic concerns. Give us a call today to learn more and schedule your free dermal filler consultation.
