Dermal filler products come in a wide variety. Each product has unique formulation that has a distinct density, texture and depth of injection, meaning that certain fillers work better for specific areas of concern.

Generally, dermal fillers are grouped according to the substance they’re made from. One thing you should always remember is that make sure that you’re getting FDA-approved brand name dermal fillers, which can only be accessed through a licensed physician.

Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is naturally occurred substance found in your skin. It promotes hydration of the skin, making the skin hydrated and plump. HA fillers are usually gel-like and soft. Results are short-lived, lasting between 6 and 12 months before the body naturally and eventually absorbs the substance. Some HA fillers are combined with lidocaine to lessen discomfort during and after the procedure.

Common hyaluronic fillers include Belotero, Juvederm, Perlane, Restylane and Voluma.

Poly-L-lactic Acid

Poly-L-lactic acid is a biodegradable, biocompatible (which means it’s safe for use in the body) substance. For many years it has been used in various medical devices such as dissolvable stitches. The result of poly-l-lactic acid filler last over 2 years and it promotes collagen production. It is considered to be a ‘semi-permanent’ filler. Because it is a thicker type of filler, it is often used for deeper facial wrinkles. Example of Poly-L-lactic filler is Sculptra Aesthetic.

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)

Polymethylmethacrylate is a biocompatible, synthetic substance that has been used in medicine for decades. When administered as dermal fillers, PMMA turns into a tiny ball or microsphere that stays underneath the skin for many years, providing long-lasting results. It is ideal for medium to deep facial wrinkles. It also contains collagen to provide firmness and structure on the skin. PMMA filler available in the market include Artefill.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)

Calcium hydroxylapatite is a naturally occurring substance that present in our bones. When administered as a dermal filler, the calcium particles, which are nearly microscopic in size, is suspended in a smooth gel. Compared to hyaluronic acid filler, the consistency of the CaHA filler is usually thicker. The result lasts longer than HA filler, typically more than 12 months. CaHA is also believed to help stimulate the production of collagen and is used for deeper lines and wrinkles. Example of FDA-approved CaHA fiiller include Radiesse.

Choosing Your Provider for Dermal Filler Treatment

When choosing a provider for filler treatment, make a decision the same way that you would for a surgical procedure. Even if it is a minimally invasive procedure, it is still a medical procedure that entails specific knowledge, training and skills to ensure the best results.

Whoever you choose, be sure that the provider has a deep knowledge of facial anatomy, a surgeon’s precision and skills and a seasoned aesthetic eye. Ask for any before and after photos of each possible provider’s past clients.

The popularity of dermal fillers has grown rapidly in recent years. Sometimes referred as ‘liquid facelift’, fillers can provide full facial rejuvenation with virtually no downtime and minimal pain. Dermal fillers can enhance the contours of your face, rejuvenate the skin, balance facial profile and offer a total natural and aesthetically pleasing results.

Unfortunately, under the hands of an inexperienced doctor, overuse of dermal fillers can happen and the results can be unpleasant. Your facial features may be overly down, making your appearance looked aged and unnatural.

How Dermal Fillers Begun

Dermal fillers were developed to address facial aging issues back when the cosmetic industry still didn’t have any immediate, effective solution to add shape or volume to the face. Before fillers were used, the main cosmetic solutions were solely focused on facial skin tightening such as surgical facelift, which often result to looking unnatural. Dermal fillers allow doctors to make a youthful aesthetic such as a plump that was more natural looking.

But today, through the help of dermal fullers, we’re able to age gracefully through the use of non-surgical means but only if they are administered properly. Now, there’s no need to wait until you noticed that your face is dropping off like a melted wax. Just head straight to your injector and have a short procedure to look radiant and refreshed again.

Dermal fillers come in different types, including Sculptra, Juvederm, Radiesse, Voluma and many more. Each of these products are effective for various facial rejuvenation purposes. But, if any of these fillers is overused, the result will be an ‘overdone’, unnatural appearance.

How to Avoid Overuse of Dermal Fillers

To prevent overuse of dermal fillers, here are some three ways:

Have a realistic expectation. A lot of people who tend to overuse dermal fillers are those with unrealistic expectations on the final results. Realize the dermal fillers cannot completely overhaul your appearance, it can only enhance your present facial traits. Learn more about dermal fillers and ask your doctor about the expected end results.

Look for a reputable provider. Proper administration of dermal fillers requires a mix of thorough experience, an artistic eye and a deep knowledge about the facial anatomy. Choose an injector who have good reviews from their peers and clients, who practice in a reputable business facility and have a successful history of providing fillers. Be wary of prices that are too good to be true, because chances are, it is.

Know when to stop. You often heard of patients who love the results of the filler too much that they become addicted to it. Follow your provider is he advises you against getting more treatment. A trusted practitioner knows the limitations of your face and will tell you honestly when you start approaching the limit.