Dermal fillers are the bread and butter of non surgical treatments, a solution for those wanting to enhance facial shape, smooth wrinkles and restore lost volume. As a clinic or aesthetic practitioner you need to choose the right dermal fillers for your clients to get the best results and client satisfaction.
In this guide we will look at the types of dermal fillers available, what to consider when choosing a product and how to make the right decision for your clients.
1. Types of Dermal Fillers
Different types of dermal fillers are designed for different aesthetic goals. Knowing the properties of each will help you match the right filler to the treatment. Below are the most common types of fillers:
- Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
- HA is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that holds moisture and plumpness. Popular HA-based brands are Juvéderm, Restylane and Belotero. These fillers are for smoothing fine lines, adding volume to the cheeks and lips.
- Duration: 6-18 months depending on the product and treatment area .
- Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers
CaHA fillers like Radiesse contain a naturally occurring mineral found in bones. They are thicker and provide a firmer result, suitable for deep wrinkles and volume loss in the face.
Duration: Up to 12 months .
- Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers
PLLA fillers like Sculptra stimulate collagen production, gradually adding volume. They are for deeper facial wrinkles and sagging skin over time.
Duration: Up to 2 years but multiple sessions are usually required .
- Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Fillers
PMMA fillers like Bellafill are semi-permanent and contain tiny, biocompatible beads that stay in the skin to provide long term support. These fillers are for deep wrinkles and acne scars.
Duration: Up to 5 years .
- Autologous Fat Injections (Fat Grafting)
Fat from the client’s own body can be harvested, purified and injected into the face. While this method gives natural results, it’s a more invasive procedure.
Duration: Can be long lasting but varies on the body’s absorption rate .
2. What to Consider When Choosing Dermal Fillers
To choose the right filler for your client consider:
- Client’s Age and Skin Type
Younger clients with minimal wrinkles may benefit from softer fillers like hyaluronic acid, older clients with more volume loss may need longer lasting fillers like CaHA or PLLA.
- Treatment Area
Some fillers are better suited for specific areas of the face. For example, thinner fillers are for lip augmentation, thicker fillers for deep nasolabial folds or cheek enhancement.
- Desired Longevity of Results
Clients wanting immediate but temporary results may prefer hyaluronic acid fillers, those wanting longer term results may opt for PLLA or PMMA fillers.
- Product Versatility
Consider fillers that can be used across multiple areas of the face. Products like Juvéderm and Restylane have multiple formulations for different treatment areas, making them versatile for clinics.
- Client Allergies and Sensitivities
Always check the filler’s ingredients and potential allergenic risks. For example, clients with certain allergies may not be suitable for products that contain animal derived substances.
3. How to Choose the Right Dermal Filler
- Consult with Your Client
A full consultation is key to understanding your client’s aesthetic goals, expectations and medical history. Discuss their desired outcomes, explain the benefits and limitations of each filler and make a joint decision based on their needs.
- Start Small
Especially for first time clients, it’s best to start with small amounts and build up as needed. This way the client is comfortable with the results and minimizes the risk of overfilling.
- Consider Reversibility
For clients who are new to dermal fillers, hyaluronic acid based fillers are the way to go, as they can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if the results are not satisfactory.
- Stay Up to Date with Training
New filler formulations and injection techniques are being developed all the time. Attend training sessions and workshops regularly to ensure you’re offering the latest and greatest to your clients.
4. Dermal Filler Brands to Consider
When choosing dermal fillers for your clinic work with brands that are well known for their quality and safety. Some of the most popular brands are:
- Juvéderm: Multiple HA based fillers for different treatment areas.
- Restylane: Multiple formulations for different aesthetic concerns.
- Sculptra: Collagen stimulator for deep wrinkles and long term results.
- Radiesse: CaHA based filler for volume restoration and deeper lines.
- Belotero: Smooth integration into the skin, for fine lines.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know which filler is right for my client?
The best filler depends on the client’s skin condition, desired results and treatment area. Do a full consultation and consider longevity, consistency and potential allergies.
- Can fillers be used together?
Yes, combining different types of fillers is common to address multiple facial concerns. For example a clinic may use an HA filler for lips and a CaHA filler for cheek volume.
- Are there side effects with dermal fillers?
Most side effects are mild and temporary, swelling, redness, bruising. However rare but serious complications can occur, filler migration or vascular occlusion.
- How long should my clients wait between filler sessions?
For maintenance clients should wait 6 to 12 months between sessions depending on the filler used and their skin’s response.
- Can dermal fillers be removed?
Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase, other fillers like CaHA or PLLA are more difficult to remove and may require additional treatments.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dermal filler for your clients is about understanding their individual needs, the filler’s properties and the desired outcome. By considering the treatment area, longevity and client expectations you can deliver safe, effective and personalized results that increase client satisfaction and loyalty.
