Dermal fillers are injectable gels placed under the skin to add volume, smooth lines, or refine facial contours. Each filler type has a different composition, so each one behaves differently once it is placed under the skin. Some fillers provide immediate volume. Others work gradually over several months. The appropriate choice depends on your goals, the area being treated, and how long you want results to last. Here’s more information on dermal filler types and how to find the appropriate one for your cosmetic needs:
Calcium Hydroxylapatite Filler
Many people begin looking into fillers in their 30s, when natural collagen production starts to slow. Others wait until their 40s, 50s, or later, when volume loss becomes more visible. Dermal fillers are for adults who want to restore lost volume or soften wrinkles and folds. A licensed provider can review your facial structure and health history to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for filler.
Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) is a mineral-like compound naturally found in human bones, but in filler form, tiny CaHA particles are suspended in a smooth gel. The gel provides volume after injection, and the body absorbs the gel and the CaHA particles over time. During this process, the particles support the skin’s own collagen production. Because CaHA has a thicker consistency than many fillers, providers often use it for deeper lines or for adding key definition in areas like:
- Nasolabial Folds
- Marionette Lines
- Cheeks and Jawline
Results typically last around 12 months, although this varies by individual.
Hyaluronic Acid Filler
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a substance the body produces naturally to help skin retain moisture, and it is commonly used in dermal fillers. HA molecules attract and bind water, so when injected, HA fillers add volume and hydration to the treated area. Manufacturers produce HA fillers in a range of thicknesses. Thinner formulas are often used in delicate areas, such as the lips and under-eye region. Thicker formulas suit deeper folds and cheek enhancement.
Results generally last 6 to 18 months, depending on the product and treatment area. Hyaluronic acid fillers are temporary, but many people view that as an advantage. Temporary results allow you to adjust your treatment plan as your preferences change. A provider can also dissolve HA fillers with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if you are unhappy with the outcome. This reversibility makes HA a common choice for first-time filler patients.
Poly-L-lactic Acid Filler
Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a biocompatible, synthetic material. Unlike most fillers, PLLA doesn’t create immediate volume; instead, it gradually stimulates collagen production. Treatment usually involves a series of sessions spaced several weeks apart. Providers often recommend PLLA fillers for people with more widespread volume loss, such as hollow cheeks or temples. PLLA may also be discussed for those who prefer gradual, subtle changes rather than an instant difference, as results develop over a few months.
Polymethylmethacrylate Filler
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) fillers contain tiny, durable microspheres suspended in a collagen gel. The collagen gel provides initial volume, while the microspheres remain beneath the skin to provide ongoing structural support. PMMA fillers last longer than most other options; for this reason, providers often recommend trying a temporary filler first. Providers commonly use it for people wanting to address:
- Deep Wrinkles
- Nasolabial Folds
- Acne Scars
Learn More About Dermal Fillers
Choosing a filler involves weighing several factors, including the treatment area, desired longevity, and your comfort with temporary versus long-lasting results. A medical spa provider can assess your needs and explain which options may suit you. For personalized advice, find a medical spa near you to schedule a consultation with an experienced injector. During your initial visit, you can ask questions, discuss your goals, and learn more about the fillers available to you.
