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How Cosmetic Fillers Work

Cosmetic fillers are injectable substances used to add volume and smooth out wrinkles and lines in the skin. They are commonly used in areas such as the face, lips, and hands to enhance or restore the natural contours of the skin and improve the appearance of aging skin. There are several different types of cosmetic fillers available, each with its own specific properties and characteristics.

Types of Cosmetic Fillers

One of the most commonly used cosmetic fillers is hyaluronic acid (HA), which is a naturally occurring substance found in the skin. HA fillers work by attracting and holding water in the skin, adding volume and hydration to the treated area. These fillers are often used to treat wrinkles and lines around the mouth, nose, and eyes, as well as to add volume to the lips and cheeks.

Another type of cosmetic filler is calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), which is a synthetic substance similar to the minerals found in bone. CaHA fillers are used to treat deeper wrinkles and folds, as well as to add volume to the cheeks and chin. These fillers are more structural in nature and are typically longer-lasting than HA fillers.

Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is another type of cosmetic filler that is used to stimulate collagen production in the skin. PLLA fillers are often used to treat deeper wrinkles and folds, as well as to add volume to the cheeks and temples. These fillers are gradually absorbed by the body over time, so the effects are not immediate but rather gradually appear over the course of several months.

There are also synthetic cosmetic fillers made from materials such as polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres and polyethylene microspheres. These fillers are used to add volume to the skin and are often used to treat deeper wrinkles and folds, as well as to enhance the appearance of the lips and cheeks.

How Cosmetic Fillers are Used

Cosmetic fillers are usually injected into the skin using a fine needle or cannula. The procedure is generally well-tolerated and can be performed in a doctor’s office or clinic setting. The treatment typically takes 30-60 minutes and the effects can be seen immediately.

The duration of the effects of cosmetic fillers varies depending on the specific filler used and the area being treated. HA fillers tend to last 6-12 months, while CaHA fillers can last up to 18 months. PLLA fillers can last up to 2 years, while synthetic fillers made from PMMA and polyethylene microspheres can last even longer. Under eye fillers can be used to remove the hollowed area that becomes saggy under the eyes.

Problems with Cosmetic Fillers

There are some potential side effects associated with the use of cosmetic fillers, including swelling, redness, and bruising at the injection site. These effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own within a few days. More serious side effects, such as infection and allergic reactions, are rare but can occur.

In summary, cosmetic fillers are injectable substances used to add volume and smooth out wrinkles and lines in the skin. There are several different types of cosmetic fillers available, including hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, and synthetic fillers made from materials such as PMMA and polyethylene microspheres. These fillers are injected into the skin using a fine needle or cannula and the effects can be seen immediately. The duration of the effects varies depending on the specific filler used and the area being treated, and there are some potential side effects associated with the use of these fillers, including swelling, redness, and bruising at the injection site.