In the realm of cosmetic treatments, dermal fillers have emerged as a popular method for restoring youthfulness and vigor to the skin. Especially in places like North Royalton, Ohio, people are increasingly turning to this non-invasive treatment.
The Bare Solutions is a vibrant team of skin care specialists with over 75 years of combined medical experience. Our team would love to help you explore the cutaneous fillers and how they work.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected under the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines, soften creases, or enhance facial contours. These FDA-approved treatments are designed to combat common signs of aging such as wrinkles and volume loss. They are often made from substances naturally found in the body, such as hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxylapatite.
Types of Dermal Fillers
The world of dermal fillers is diverse, offering a variety of options tailored to individual needs and desired results. In North Royalton, Ohio, several types of dermal fillers are available, each with unique properties and applications.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
Hyaluronic Acid, often abbreviated as HA, is a substance that naturally occurs in various parts of the human body, including the skin, connective tissues, and eyes. Its primary function is to retain water to keep tissues well-lubricated.
n the context of fillers, HA is used to deliver nutrients to the skin, helping it retain moisture, and softness, and add volume. This makes it excellent for addressing issues like wrinkles and fine lines, adding fullness to areas that have thinned due to aging. Juvéderm and Restylane are two popular brands of HA-based fillers. These products can last from six months to over a year, depending on the specific product and individual metabolic factors.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) is another naturally occurring substance found primarily in our bones. When used in aesthetic medicine, CaHA comes in a thicker gel form, making it ideal for deeper lines and wrinkles. It's particularly effective for moderate-to-severe wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds (the lines that run from the corners of your nose to the corners of your mouth).
The CaHA particles help stimulate collagen production, leading to increased volume and firmness over time. Radiesse is a well-known brand of this type of filler. The effects of CaHAs can last upwards of a year or more.
Poly-L-lactic Acid
Poly-L-lactic acid is a synthetic, biodegradable substance that has been widely used in medical devices, like dissolvable stitches. When injecting it to add volume to the face, it stimulates collagen production. Unlike HA and CaHA, which give immediate results, poly-L-lactic acid works gradually.
Over time, the injected substance helps stimulate your skin's collagen production, leading to a gradual increase in volume. This type of product is typically used to treat deeper facial wrinkles and can last up to two years. Sculptra Aesthetic is a popular brand.
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is a semi-permanent option. It consists of a clear serum containing tiny PMMA microspheres. The microspheres are suspended within a collagen gel, which helps to lift and smooth the skin.
PMMAs are most often used to treat medium-to-deep wrinkles, folds, and furrows, particularly nasolabial folds. Over time, your body uses the PMMA microspheres as a kind of scaffolding, encouraging the growth of your collagen around them. Bellafill is a well-known brand of PMMA filler.
Each of these dermal fillers has its strengths and specific applications, so it's essential to consult with an experienced practitioner who can recommend the best one for your unique needs and desired outcomes.
Dermal Fillers versus Botox
While both dermal fillers and Botox are injectable treatments used to combat signs of aging, they work in different ways. Botox works by blocking nerve signals in the muscles where it is injected, reducing muscle activity that causes lines and wrinkles. This helps prevent dynamic wrinkles caused by facial expressions. Dermal fillers, on the other hand, work by filling in areas under the skin, smoothing out lines, and restoring volume. This helps soften those more permanent lines and wrinkles formed by untreated dynamic wrinkles.
Long-term Effects of Dermal Fillers
The long-term effects of dermal fillers depend on the type of filler used and individual metabolism. Generally, HAs last between 6-12 months, while other types can last up to 2 years or more. However, with regular top-ups, the effects can be maintained indefinitely.
While generally safe, like any procedure, dermal fillers can have side effects, including redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site. Rare but serious side effects include infection, lumps and bumps, discoloration or change in skin color and vascular occlusions.
Healthy Glowing Skin is Just One Call Away
Dermal fillers offer a non-invasive way to combat signs of aging. If you're considering fillers in the North Royalton, Ohio area, ensure you consult with an experienced medical professional who can guide you through the process, ensuring the best possible results for your individual needs.