Dermal fillers are an effective way to restore volume loss in the face and skin and can slow or even reverse the aging process. The injectables can also be used to enhance or alter facial features without having to undergo plastic surgery.
However, filler treatments are only temporary, lasting anywhere between 6-24 months depending on the type of injectable used.
Although your body’s metabolism will play a key role in the longevity of your dermal fillers, there are some things you can do to help lengthen and maintain the results of your injectable treatment.
Why aren’t dermal fillers permanent?
Most injectable treatments including the most popular (dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections) are temporary.
Dermal fillers are made of natural complex enzymes, such as hyaluronic acid. This substance is injected under the skin to stabilise the skin’s structure. It also attracts and binds to water which helps to improve the skin’s elasticity and volume. Fine lines are minimised and your complexion appears plumper and rejuvenated.
Being a natural substance, hyaluronic acid fillers are metabolised by the body over time. How long your results last will depend on a few things:
- The type of dermal filler used
- The speed of your metabolism
- The areas of the face treated
Find out more about our Dermal Filler treatment here.
Tips to make your dermal filler treatment last longer
Your Cosmetic Nurse will take into account the above factors to help extend the lifespan of your dermal filler treatment, but there are some things you can do too.
1. Skincare
Taking care of your skin will help minimise the effects of the aging process in general, but will also enhance the effects of hyaluronic acid fillers and help give you longer-lasting results. Cleansing and moisturising your skin daily helps to keep it hydrated. There are also a few skincare products that can complement the effects of your dermal filler injections which may be recommended after your treatment.
2. Sun protection
Overexposure to UV rays accelerates the aging process and damages the skin leading to an uneven complexion, sun spots, pigmentation and fine lines. Reducing your sun exposure and practising adequate UV protection is vital after your dermal filler treatment and will play a large role in maintaining your results.
Avoid sun exposure during peak times when the UV rays are high. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and apply a quality SPF sunscreen. A moisturiser or foundation with added SPF may be wise if you’re outside in the sun often.
3. Healthy diet
Your diet can directly impact the health and appearance of your skin. To optimise your dermal filler treatment and to support your skin’s integrity, a diet that is rich in whole foods including a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables is important. Make sure you increase your intake of skin-loving nutrients like zinc, vitamin C, collagen, omega 3’s and B vitamins. Think berries, colourful vegetables, nuts & seeds, avocado and salmon. Stay away from inflammatory foods including processed, fried, high-sugar and packaged foods. These foods can lead to damaged cells and accelerate the aging process.
Read our article ‘Foods for Glowing Skin This Summer‘ for more tips.
4. Stress management
Stress, whether it’s driven by your workload, financial woes, relationships or parenting, has a big impact on your overall health including the quality of your skin. When you’re stressed, chemical reactions occur and your body releases hormones such as cortisol to help you act against the threat (real or percieved) so injury can be prevented.
Now, we’re designed to handle small doses of stress, but our bodies aren’t equipped to handle chronic stress and as a result, we suffer the consequences. In terms of our skin, high levels of stress long term causes inflammation and speeds up the aging process. This can worsen the fine lines and wrinkles we’re trying to prevent. Reducing and managing your stress levels is essential to the longevity of your injectable treatment. Consider practising meditation, deep breathing or yoga daily. If those techniques aren’t for you try journalling, walking, grounding your feet in the sand or grass, or a relaxing activity like drawing, having a bath or paddleboarding.
5. Hydration
Keeping hydrated is on many people’s lists for maintaining optimal skin health. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day may help to maintain the results of hyaluronic acid fillers by enhancing their water-absorption ability. This can keep your skin looking voluminous and dewy rather than dull and dry.
6. Maintenance treatments
Undergoing regular touch-ups as advised by your Cosmetic Nurse before your injectable treatment results diminish can help your skin continue to look youthful. Maintenance treatments may also teach the muscles in the targeted areas of the face to respond more effectively to the hyaluronic acid optimising your results.
