In the final blog in our series about advanced skincare and Laser hair removal with expert advice from Dr Toni Phillips, Clinical Director at Renew Medica, we look at having treatments using Dermal Fillers.

 

What are Dermal Fillers and why they are not Botox?
Dermal fillers are clear gels made from hyaluronic acid (HA). Hyaluronic acid usually occurs naturally in the skin and is part of the dermal (skin) matrix.

 

Factors such as age, excessive sun exposure, smoking etc deplete our natural HA and so the skin appears lined, wrinkled and lacking support (sagging). Dermal filler products are therefore used to replace the HA which corrects lines and wrinkles and gives the skin back its support structure. 

It is totally different from botox which is used to relax the muscles underlying the skin. Botox works on muscle not on skin and won't plump or enhance the firmness of the dermal structure. 

 

Why would I have dermal fillers?

You would have a dermal filler to add volume and structure to the skin, it can be used for lines and wrinkles but also to enhance features such as the lips and cheeks.

What are the results?
Dermal fillers can be used anywhere on the face for lines and wrinkles, volumising cheeks, chin, lips and also sometimes for nasal contouring. There are also hydrating dermal fillers which can be used on the neck, back of hands, décolleté, knees, elbows and feet to condition the skin making it look plumper. 

 

What are the side effects?

Post treatment there is usually some redness and mild swelling. Bruising can occur but it resolves quickly if arnica tablets are taken for a few days. Mostly, clients find that with make - up they are fine almost immediately.



How long does treatment last?

Dermal fillers last between 5 to 12 months depending on how well they are maintained. A good maintenance program is crucial to a superb, long term aesthetic result and this should be discussed fully at the inital consultation.