What are hyaluronic acid fillers?

If you’re considering having a hyaluronic acid filler, it’s important to be well-informed about the treatment, how it works, and the possible risks. Hyaluronic acid fillers are a popular choice for people looking to rejuvenate their face, reduce wrinkles, or enhance the volume of areas such as the lips, cheeks, or chin. In this article, we cover everything you need to know—from the basics of hyaluronic acid to choosing the right practitioner and aftercare following treatment.

What Is a Hyaluronic Acid Filler?

A hyaluronic acid filler is a clear gel injected in small amounts into the skin. Its purpose is to improve the shape and structure of the face by adding volume or smoothing out wrinkles. The gel contains hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the body that helps retain moisture. Popular brands of hyaluronic acid fillers include Restylane®, Juvederm®, Belotero®, and Emervel®.

What Are Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Used For?

Hyaluronic acid fillers can be used for various purposes, depending on your goals and the areas you want to treat. They are commonly used to:

• Reduce wrinkles: Such as laugh lines, marionette lines, frown lines, forehead wrinkles, and crow’s feet.

• Add volume: For example, fuller lips, enhanced cheeks, or a more defined jawline.

• Improve skin texture: In some cases, filling certain areas can make the skin firmer and smoother.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally produced by the body. It has the unique ability to bind large amounts of water—up to 6 litres per gram. For example, the vitreous body in the eye consists of around 98% water and just 2% hyaluronic acid.

Because water is almost incompressible, tissues rich in hyaluronic acid are also resilient, particularly in connective tissue. This helps protect structures like intervertebral discs from damage. Normally, body weight—and activities like running or jumping—would place too much stress on these areas, potentially causing harm. Hyaluronic acid, as a component of synovial fluid in joints, acts as both a lubricant and a cushion.

Hyaluronic acid fillers are crosslinked. The degree of crosslinking varies by brand and type, determining how firm, durable, and water-binding the filler is. The purity of the hyaluronic acid and its level of crosslinking largely determine the quality of the filler.

Read more: What Is a Filler?

What Can You Do with Hyaluronic Acid Fillers?

Hyaluronic acid fillers are primarily used to smooth wrinkles, restore volume to sagging skin, and enhance facial contours. For example, they can define the lip line, create symmetrical cheekbones, or fill tear troughs.

As you age, the skin loses volume and firmness, making fine lines more visible and causing slight sagging. By injecting a small amount of hyaluronic acid with a fine needle into areas of volume loss, you can restore structure and firmness. Common areas include the cheekbones, under the eyes, nasolabial folds, and the lips.

Credits: Renew Clinic, Zandvoort and Amsterdam

When Should You Avoid Hyaluronic Acid Fillers?

There are certain situations in which it’s better not to undergo a hyaluronic acid filler treatment:

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to hyaluronic acid or a filler.

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If there is already a permanent filler in the area to be treated.

• If you have an active herpes simplex infection (such as a cold sore), as this could worsen the condition.

• If you have a skin infection or other active skin issues in the area to be treated.

What Does a Hyaluronic Acid Treatment Involve?

A hyaluronic acid treatment is usually quick and effective. Here’s what to expect:

• Numbing: Depending on the area being treated, you can choose a numbing cream, ice, or a local injection to temporarily numb the area.

• The Treatment: The filler is injected into the skin using a fine needle, one injection at a time. This usually takes 15–30 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.

• After the Treatment: The treated area is gently massaged to ensure the gel is evenly distributed.

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What Results Can You Expect from a Filler Treatment?

The results of a hyaluronic acid treatment are visible immediately, but the effects are not permanent. Hyaluronic acid is gradually broken down by the body. Results typically last between 6 and 12 months, but with a follow-up treatment, they can last up to 18 months. For areas like the lips, top-ups every 6 months are often recommended to maintain optimal results.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Hyaluronic Acid Fillers?

Although hyaluronic acid treatments are generally considered safe, some side effects can occur. The most common include:

• Redness, swelling or bruising: These usually settle within a few days to a week.

• Unevenness or small lumps: Sometimes the filler doesn’t spread evenly, which can often be corrected with gentle massage.

• Rare complications: In very rare cases, a blockage can occur if filler enters a blood vessel. This carries a small risk of vision problems, particularly with frown line treatments.

What Can and Can’t You Do After the Treatment?

After your treatment, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

You can:

• Wash your face as normal and apply makeup.

• Use a cold compress to ease swelling or tenderness.

You should avoid:

• Intense physical activity such as exercise for 24–48 hours.

• Saunas, sunbeds, or prolonged sun exposure for one week after treatment.

• Laser treatments or chemical peels in the weeks following treatment, as these can trigger inflammation.

When Should You Contact Your Practitioner?

It’s important to get in touch with your practitioner if any side effects don’t settle within a few days, or if you experience severe swelling, pain, or unusual symptoms. Always seek advice if you’re concerned about your treatment.

How Long Do Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Last?

Hyaluronic acid fillers provide long-lasting results, but they aren’t permanent. Most people find that the effects last between 6 and 12 months, depending on the area treated and the amount of filler used. If you’d like to maintain your results, you can consider a top-up after a few months.

How to Choose the Right Clinic and Practitioner

When choosing a clinic and practitioner for your hyaluronic acid treatment, it’s important to take your time and do your research:

• Look for qualified practitioners: Experience and a strong reputation are essential for a safe and effective treatment.

• Read reviews and patient experiences: Independent review platforms make it easy to compare clinics and practitioners based on feedback and pricing.

• Discuss your expectations: During your consultation, make sure you clearly explain what you’re hoping to achieve from the treatment.

The Importance of Good Aftercare

Aftercare is key to achieving the best possible outcome. Be sure to follow your practitioner’s instructions and allow your skin time to recover. Avoid anything that may disrupt healing, such as strenuous exercise, heat, or pressure on the treated area. If you’re unsure or have any concerns, always reach out to your practitioner for advice.

Frequently asked questions about hyaluronic acid fillers