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Dermal fillers are one of the more popular anti-aging treatments in the United States. They’re quick, convenient, and provide noticeable results. Dermal fillers don’t last forever, though. Over time, the body will eventually metabolize and break down the primary substance that fills in wrinkles and fine lines.
Fillers might be temporary, but there are ways to extend their longevity and to make the most of your treatment. Before you schedule an appointment, get to know your options when it comes to injectable fillers.
Explore Your Options
When it comes to choosing an injectable to help minimize lines and wrinkles, you’ve got lots of great options. The filler that’s best for you depends in large part on what issue you’re trying to correct, and what your overall goals are. Injectables vary by ingredients and the areas of the face that they treat. Fillers can be made from the following substances:
- Hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is the primary ingredient in the majority of soft tissue fillers, such as all of the members of the Juvederm family, Restylane products and Belotero. The substance is a type of polymer that your body naturally produces, but production begins to diminish as you get older. Hyaluronic acid has plumping effects and is often used to fill in lines and wrinkles or add volume or definition to the cheeks, jawline and lips. Depending on the viscosity of the filler, results can last for a few months to up to two years.
- Calcium hydroxylapatite. Radiesse is an example of a filler made from calcium hydroxyapatite. The ingredient volumizes instantly and encourages the production of collagen for continued results. Results can last for up to 18 months.
- Poly-L-lactic acid. The primary ingredient in Sculptra, poly-l-lactic acid, is a synthetic substance that encourages collagen production. It’s used to restore facial volume loss over time.
- Collagen and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). Uses to fill in deep lines and acne scars, collagen and PMMA can last for up to five years.
In some cases, the longevity of fillers is beyond your control. With that said, there are steps you can take to make the most of your injectable treatment.
How to Extend the Life of Fillers: Stay Hydrated
Hydration can help extend the life of your fillers, especially hyaluronic acid-based injections. Hyaluronic acid loves water, so the more hydrated you stay and the more moisturizer you use, the better. Aim for eight glasses of water a day and remember to apply a moisturizing lotion day and night.
How to Extend the Life of Fillers: Stay Calm
Stress wreaks havoc on your body in many ways. It can cause weight gain, heart issues and make you feel generally unwell. It can also interfere with the lifespan of your fillers. The hormone cortisol can help speed up the aging process, speeding up the breakdown of the filler’s active ingredients.
While stressing less might seem like a tall order, it’s a worthwhile goal. If you’re constantly feeling stressed out, take a look at your lifestyle. Are you doing things that don’t make you happy that could be cut from your life? Can you ask someone else to take on certain responsibilities, so that you can get a break? Adding relaxing activities such as yoga or meditation to your weekly routine can help you feel calmer.
How to Extend the Life of Fillers: Stay Out of the Sun
The sun’s UV rays speed up the aging process. Those rays can also speed up the breakdown of your injectables. Minimize sun exposure after your treatment by avoiding spending time outdoors when the sun is at its strongest (usually late morning to late afternoon). When you do outside, make sure to wear SPF and to reapply it every couple of hours. A hat with a wide brim and a pair of sunglasses with UV protection will also help to shield your skin from the sun.
Schedule Repeat Treatments
If you like the results you got from your filler treatment, it’s possible to schedule a repeat treatment just as the effects are wearing off. Fillers are meant to be temporary, but it’s also common practice to repeat them if you like the results.
Dr. Diane Walder is a leading dermatologist in the US. She offers a wide variety of dermal fillers at her practice in Miami and can help you decide which one is most appropriate for you. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Walder or one of her associates, call 305-866-2177 today.
