What Do Facial Fillers Do? A Comprehensive Guide

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected under the skin to create a softer or fuller appearance, or both. As reported in clinical trials, the effects of most FDA-approved dermal fillers are temporary because they are made of materials that are eventually broken down and absorbed by the body. It may be necessary to repeat the injection procedure to maintain the desired effect. Facial fillers are substances that are injected into the skin to smooth wrinkles and make them less visible. The injection of a facial filler is usually an outpatient procedure that is done with anesthetic medications and can last up to an hour.

Fillers are an injectable treatment option that is designed to lessen the signs of aging. Instead of affecting facial muscles, fillers fill sections of the skin, filling in wrinkles and folds of the skin. Dermal fillers are soft, gel-like substances that can address a number of common problems, such as softening deep dark circles, lifting cheekbones, giving volume to lips, smoothing lip lines and nasolabial folds (the folds that run from the side of the nose to the corners of the mouth), and rejuvenating the hands. Dermal fillers are ideal for filling wrinkles and lines, filling lips and cheeks, and improving facial contours. As facial muscles decrease in volume and elasticity, deflation and movement of facial fat further accentuate signs of aging. Dermal fillers work by increasing the supply of hyaluronic acid to the skin, dermal fillers revitalize and add volume to the skin, instantly diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and give a smoother natural look. A different type of filler is calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHa) filler.

This filler is different from other fillers because its results are gradual; volumizing occurs over several months, as it stimulates the body to produce collagen. The consistency of a CaHa filler is usually thicker than that of a hyaluronic acid filler and usually lasts longer, about 12 months for most patients. FDA Regulates Dermal Fillers as Medical Devices. While many facial fillers provide immediate results, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), some of them will require several treatments over the course of weeks or months for optimal benefits, followed by occasional touch-ups. Dermal filler procedures can be costly, prompting some consumers to turn to the online black market to buy DIY fillers. A licensed healthcare professional must perform all dermal filler procedures using only FDA-approved fillers injected with a syringe.

Advances in the cosmetics industry have resulted in age-fighting treatment options such as Botox and facial fillers. Hyaluronic acid fillers tend to be the most temporary option and are therefore often recommended for patients using fillers for the first time.

Carole Toussant
Carole Toussant

Hipster-friendly analyst. Incurable zombie geek. Evil reader. Unapologetic coffee lover. Amateur web expert.