While dermal fillers do a great job of reversing the effects of ageing, the results are temporary, which necessitates the frequent scheduling of touch-up sessions to help maintain your results. Different types of fillers have different longevity timelines, with most lasting between 6 to 12 months. The effects are temporary because injectable fillers are composed of biodegradable substances that get broken down over time before eventually being reabsorbed by the body. However, there are a couple of measures that can be taken to ensure your results last longer. At Canova Medical in Wilmslow, Cheshire, we offer Juvederm, one of the best-selling dermal fillers on the market which provide results that last for up to 18 months or more.
What dermal filler treatments are available at Canova Medical?
Different dermal fillers are used to target specific regions of the face so it is important to be 100% sure about which area you would like to get fillers injected. The Juvederm treatments available at our clinic and corresponding longevity are:
- Juvederm Ultra: Used mainly for smoothening fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth and for enhancing the lips; results typically last between 6 to 12 months
- Juvederm Volbella: Enhances volume in the lips and improves the appearance of lip lines and under-eye hollows; results typically last for up to 18 months
The filler treatment that suits you best will be determined via an initial consultation with one of our specialists. Your treatment will further be customised according to your particular situation in order to ensure your results last as expected.
What affects how long dermal fillers last for?
Dermal fillers are largely composed of biodegradable substances such as hyaluronic acid (HA), which means they will get broken down or metabolised by the body over time. While the metabolic rate differs from person to person, there are a couple of factors that affect it, such as:
The type of dermal filler used
Since different fillers target specific regions of the face, not all of them have the exact same composition of substances. As they are biodegradable, some of these may be broken down a lot quicker than others, which explains the varying metabolic rates for different dermal fillers. However, it is generally known that the higher the concentration of HA a filler has, the longer its effects will last.
Injection dosage and location
Injectable fillers that are administered at a low dose typically produce results that do not last for long compared to high-dose fillers. Additionally, the more injections are administered close together in one location, the higher the concentration of HA in that particular area, hence the longer the results will last.
If the dermal fillers are injected in an area of the face that has a lot of movement, such as the lips or around the mouth, the effects are most likely to fade away quickly owing to the constant contraction of muscles. On the other hand, cheek and under-eye fillers are expected to keep for longer because of their placement, which is usually beneath the muscles and on the bone.
External factors
It may be surprising to know that external factors have a role to play in the longevity of dermal fillers, but they do in fact contribute greatly to the rate at which fillers are broken down in the body. Such factors include:
- UV radiation: Overexposure to the sun increases the amount of ultraviolet radiation reaching the skin which can lead to HA degradation. This is especially problematic if sun exposure occurs during the healing process as it causes the filler effects to diminish even more quickly.
- Polluted air: The free radicals in polluted air are notorious for causing skin damage by reacting with the cells in our skin, quickening the ageing process and impacting the results from dermal fillers.
- Skin care products: Some skin care products may not be compatible with certain dermal fillers, therefore placing them directly on the treated areas may also affect your results.
So, how can we make dermal fillers last longer?
It should be a relief to know that regardless of the many factors that affect the longevity of dermal fillers, there are many proactive steps you can take to ensure your results last longer. While you will be provided with comprehensive post-treatment instructions, you are typically expected to:
Avoid UV exposure as much as possible
Since overexposure to the sun after filler treatment can cause your results to diminish quickly, it is highly recommended that you stay out of the sun for at least one week post-treatment. If you do have to go outside, you must apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50, wear protective clothing and accessories such as a hat or sunglasses to cover your face as much as possible and try to limit how much time you spend outdoors, especially on a particularly hot day.
Need help deciding whether dermal fillers are right for you?
Call us on 01625 529942 or Book a FREE consultation
You should also wait a couple of days post-treatment before applying any tanning products as your skin needs time to heal first. Similarly, you should also steer clear of tanning beds.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Dermal fillers attract water, and it is the water stored in our tissues which helps them work effectively to give off a much fresher and fuller facial appearance. As such, it is important that you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water after the procedure to ensure your results are maintained well.
You may also be prescribed some hydrating topical creams by your doctor to apply after your treatment. Make it a habit to apply a moisturiser as well to further help extend the longevity of your results.
Eat a healthy, nutritious diet
Along with your water intake, the food you consume also affects how well you maximise the results of your dermal filler treatment. It is highly recommended that you steer clear of processed foods and dairy products, cut back on sugar, and limit how much coffee and alcohol you consume. Taking in too much of these foods and drinks can cause inflammation which will directly affect your skin and the effectiveness of the dermal fillers.
As such, you should instead opt to include more fruits and vegetables in your diet as well as Omega-3 fats to prevent cell dehydration and help get rid of free radicals. Increasing your Vitamin C intake by eating fruits and vegetables such as berries, cabbage, potatoes, and tomatoes can also provide further protection against free radicals.
Consistently maintain a healthy skin care regimen
This is a step that is often overlooked by many but should be taken seriously. After all, consistently hydrating and moisturising your skin will help reap the benefits of dermal fillers owing to their water-attracting characteristic to give rise to a much fresher, rejuvenated appearance.
You should also make use of skin care products which contain ingredients that keep your skin safe from free radicals and increases the production of collagen, a key protein that keeps your skin looking supple and healthy. More collagen improves the elasticity and firmness of your skin, thereby helping to extend the results from dermal fillers.
Live a stress-free life
While this is of course easier said than done, there are many things you can do to change your lifestyle to ensure your stress hormones are kept low. Elevated levels of these hormones will cause your skin to age a lot quicker, making the results from your dermal filler treatment ineffective. As such, try to practice regular meditation or yoga to maintain a healthier peace of mind and keep yourself stress-free.
So, are touch-up sessions really necessary?
While the above-mentioned steps can indeed be effective in extending your results, you must not forget the importance of regularly attending touch-up sessions as these will help maintain your results for longer. These are usually very quick and are typically less costly than your initial treatment session as only a small amount of filler will be injected into your skin to reinforce the filler effects. How often you must attend these sessions will be informed by your doctor accordingly — what’s most important is that you attend them consistently.
Looking for effective, long-lasting dermal fillers? You’ve come to the right place!
Let’s face it — cosmetic treatments would be immensely convenient if they lasted a lifetime, but their biodegradable and biocompatible characteristics make this very near impossible. This is important, however, to ensure the absence of any adverse side effects post-treatment. Thankfully, there are tons of fillers out there, such as Juvederm, which provide results that can last for up to two years.
If you are located in the Stockport, Manchester, or Cheshire area and would like to know more about dermal fillers or find out what alternative options are available to you, please feel free to reach out to the team at Canova Medical conveniently located at 36A Alderley Road, Wilmslow SK9 1JX. You can call us at 01625 529942 or book your consultation online today.