The Different Types of Dermal Fillers: A Comprehensive Guide

As we age, many of us look for ways to slow down and fight the natural aging process. From a healthy and balanced diet to regular exercise and anti-wrinkle creams, there are numerous options to choose from. While plastic surgery can deliver quick and visible results, it is also invasive, risky, and difficult to reverse. 

Fortunately, there is now an excellent alternative for those seeking to reduce or eliminate the signs of aging – dermal fillers! 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of dermal fillers and their pros and cons…

Let’s dive in!

Types Of Dermal Fillers

There are a variety of FDA-approved filler products that cosmetic surgeons can use, and these are generally categorized by the substance they are made from.  Let’s explore the different types of dermal fillers – 

Hyaluronic acid fillers

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that is found in the skin, joints, and eyes. It is a popular choice for dermal fillers because it is very effective at adding volume and hydration to the skin.

Typically, hyaluronic acid fillers are short to medium-lasting dermal fillers (temporary; 6-12 months).

Examples of various popular kinds of hyaluronic acid fillers – 

• Cross-linked Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Fillers –

1. Juvederm Volite
2. Perfectha Deep
3. Perfectha Derm

• Non-cross-linked Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Fillers – 

1. Teosyal Redensity I

• Mix (Crosslinked+Non-crosslinked) Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Fillers –

1. Teosyal Puresense Redensity II

Pros:

1. Effective at adding volume and hydration to the skin
2. Generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects

Cons:

1. Not permanent, results will need to be maintained with repeat treatments every 6-12 months

Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers

Calcium hydroxylapatite is a mineral that is found in the body and is used in dermal fillers to add volume and improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 

It is a more durable and long-lasting filler compared to some other types.

Examples of calcium hydroxylapatite fillers:

1. Radiesse
2. Sculptra

Pros:

1. Long-lasting results compared to some other types of fillers
2. Can add volume and improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines

Cons:

1. It may be more expensive than some other types of fillers
2. Some people may experience side effects such as swelling or redness at the injection site
3. Results may vary and may not be as noticeable as some other types of fillers

Poly-L-lactic acid fillers

Poly-L-lactic acid is a synthetic biodegradable polymer that is used in dermal fillers to add volume and improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It is a more gradual-acting filler, meaning that results may not be immediately noticeable but will improve over time.

Typically, they are semi-permanent dermal fillers (up to 2 years or more).

Examples of Poly-L-lactic acid fillers:

1. Sculptra

Pros:

1. Gradual-acting filler that can improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines over time
2. Can add volume to the face

Cons:

1. Results may not be immediately noticeable
2. More expensive than some other types of fillers
3. Some people may experience side effects such as swelling or redness at the injection site

Deoxycholic acid fillers

Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring substance that is found in the body, and is used in dermal fillers to break down and absorb fat cells. It is a popular choice for non-surgical fat reduction treatments.

Examples of deoxycholic acid fillers:

1. Aqualyx

Pros:

2. Can effectively reduce fat in certain areas of the face and body
3. Non-surgical treatment option

Cons:

4. Can cause side effects such as swelling, bruising, and pain at the injection site
5. Results may vary and may not be as noticeable as some other types of fillers
6. Multiple treatments may be necessary to achieve desired results

Polycaprolactone fillers

Polycaprolactone is a synthetic biodegradable polymer that is used in dermal fillers to add volume and improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It is a more gradual-acting filler, meaning that results may not be immediately noticeable but will improve over time.

Typically, polycaprolactone fillers are medium to long-lasting dermal fillers (semi-permanent; up to 2 yrs or more).

Examples of polycaprolactone fillers:

1. Ellansé

Pros:

1. Gradual-acting filler that can improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines over time
2. Can add volume to the face

Cons:

1. Results may not be immediately noticeable
2. More expensive than some other types of fillers
3. Some people may experience side effects such as swelling or redness at the injection site

It is important to note that each type of dermal filler has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and it is best to consult with a qualified medical professional to determine which type of dermal filler is best for you and your individual needs and goals.

Comparison of different types of dermal fillers

When choosing a dermal filler, it is important to consider the specific area of the face being treated, the desired results, and the individual’s budget and preferences.

Filladerm recommends considering a few factors when choosing a dermal filler include:

1. The duration of the results: Some fillers are more long-lasting than others, and the length of time that the results will last can be an important factor for some people.

2. The specific area of the face being treated: Different fillers may be more suitable for different areas of the face. For example, hyaluronic acid fillers may be more suitable for adding volume to the lips, while calcium hydroxylapatite fillers may be more suitable for improving the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

3. The individual’s budget: Dermal fillers can vary in price, and it is important to consider the cost when choosing a filler.

4. Any allergies or sensitivities: It is important to consult with a qualified medical professional and discuss any allergies or sensitivities before getting a dermal filler treatment.

5. It is important to consult with a qualified medical professional before getting a dermal filler treatment to determine the best option for your specific needs and goals.

Conclusion

It is important to consider the specific area of the face being treated, the desired results, and the individual’s budget and preferences when choosing a dermal filler. At Filladerm, we offer a wide range of dermal fillers to choose from, including those made from hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxyapatite, and poly-L-lactic acid. We also offer deoxycholic acid and polycaprolactone fillers.