Hyaluronic Acid fillers vs Collagen Stimulating fillers

To combat wrinkles, sagging skin and depleted facial volume, experts are turning to HA or collagen stimulating fillers. But what is the difference between the two? Dr Ravi Jain explains.

Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers are used to fill deep lines in the skin, add structure or symmetry to the face or plump where volume has been lost”, says Dr Ravi. “Used effectively, dermal fillers can help combat signs of ageing, revitalise the skin, and make the whole face look fresher and softer.

As we age, our skin loses its natural HA. Dermal HA fillers replace the lost HA, filling out wrinkles and contouring the cheeks, chin and lips.

Hyaluronic Acid fillersvs collagen stimulating fillers

HA fillers work to mimic the skin’s production of collagen to ‘plump up’ and fill out lines or depressions in the skin, or hollows in areas such as the cheeks, for a fresher, more toned and youthful appearance. This improvement in overall skin surface quality acts to re-elasticate the contours of the face, for a non-surgical ‘lift’ which can be highly effective. Hyaluronic Acid fillers work by attracting water from the surround tissues and act as a sponge in your skin, giving good tone and lifting folds.

Alternatively, patients can turn to collagen stimulating fillers. These are made from substances like PolyCaproLactone. These dermal fillers provide both instant and gradual results; increased volume occurs immediately, however volumisation continues to develop for up to four months, as microspheres in the filler gel encourage the body to produce collagen. The more collagen your skin has, the smoother and tighter it appears.

Where can Hyaluronic Acid fillers and collagen stimulating fillers treat?

Depending on the type of filler, dermal fillers can add volume to the face and lips. HA filler such a Perfectha can be used to treat light and deep wrinkles, as well as the cheeks, nose, chin and lips.

A bio-stimulating filler like Ellansé can be used to boost collagen in the upper face (forehead, temples and brow area), mid face (cheeks and nasolabial folds) and lower face (marionette lines, chin and jawline). Ellansé can also be used to treat scars and for hand rejuvenation.

How long do they last?

The longevity of dermal filler depends on its placement, and the density of the product used. Our lips are mobile, and are constantly in use, so won’t last as long as a thicker filler used in a more static area.

HA dermal filler is usually completely broken down within the skin over a period of months, eventually leaving no trace of the filler. Dermal fillers last between four and twelve months.

By comparison bio-stimulating dermal filler treatments lasts between one and three years.