As we age, our hormones start changing, leading to a significant decline in the production of substances such as collagen that improve skin’s plumpness, structure, and moisture. When this happens, wrinkles and age lines take over, taking our youthful appearance away. While anti-ageing products such as vitamin C and retinoids can undo these effects, more and more people are turning to dermal fillers or face fillers because they act faster. You will notice the effects immediately after the session with your injector. But how long do these injections take to settle? Keep reading to find out.
What Are Facial Fillers?
Before looking at how long face fillers take to settle, let’s first understand what they are. Face fillers are gel-like substances injected into the skin. They are used to treat wrinkles, fine lines, and acne scars. Some people also use them to address facial symmetry or get rid of cellulite. Facial treatments mimic substances our bodies produce naturally, such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, and calcium hydroxyapatite.
Types of Facial Fillers
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Hyaluronic acid(HA)fillers promote fuller, plumper lips, eliminate fine lines, and add volume to the skin. They are temporary, which means you can reverse their results or complications. Brands associated with these fillers include Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero.
Collagen Fillers
Collagen-based fillers are made from bovine collagen. They are not frequently used today because of other options such as HA fillers that offer longer-lasting results without side effects.
Calcium Hydroxyapatite Fillers
These fillers increase the production of collagen. Another great thing about them is that they offer longer-lasting results than HA-based fillers. Most people use them to soothe deeper wrinkles and enhance facial contouring.
Poly-L-lactic Acid Fillers
These fillers help the body to maintain healthy levels of collagen. They are mostly used to address facial lipoatrophy and deeper facial lines.
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Fillers
PMMA fillers contain PMMA microspheres suspended in purified collagen gel. They are mostly used to address medium or deep wrinkles, folds, and furrows. They can also fill out pitted scars and augment thin lips in some people.
The Settling Period
After getting facial filler injections, you will experience things like swelling and bruising. These are normal and shouldn’t make you go back to your injector, as they can go away after a few days. However, the injection may take up to 4 weeks to settle and give you the results you are looking for. Facial fillers take time to settle because they are made of different substances. Fillers such as Juvederm are made with hyaluronic acid, which breaks down and absorbs into the skin, interacting with water molecules and hydrating from the inside. This process can take a few weeks.
Factors Influencing the Settlement Period
Filler Type
Fillers harbor different properties, which can impact the time they take to settle in. Juvederm, Restylane, and Radiesse absorb into the skin faster, settling in within one to two weeks. On the other hand, Sculptra integrates slowly into the skin, settling in within 4 to 6 weeks. In exchange for this long settling period, you will get results that last for up to three years.
Injected Area
Some areas such as the mouth and lips have more movement while others are less dynamic. Fillers injected in the former tend to take longer to settle.
Body Chemistry
Everyone is different and bodies will therefore respond uniquely to fillers. Individual factors such as genetics, metabolism, and overall health can impact the breakdown and absorption of fillers.
Post-Treatment Care
Following your injector’s instructions carefully can influence how long the fillers will take to settle.
What to Do After Facial Filler Injections
Take A lot of Water
Taking a lot of water after treatment can keep your body and lips properly hydrated. This canminimise swelling and speed up the recovery process.
Use Pain Killers
Take painkillers such as Tylenol to manage any post-procedure discomfort. Steer clear of painkillers such as ibuprofen and aspirin, which can thin your blood, delaying your healing.
Avoid Sunshine Exposure
Sunshine causes wrinkles and age lines. This means that exposing yourself to UV light after getting facial fillers can reverse the benefits of the treatment. To protect yourself from UV light, wear a wide-brimmed hat before going out, do not go out during the hottest parts of the day (late morning or mid-afternoon), or wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or more.
Do Not Apply Makeup or Lotions on the Treatment Area
Injections leave open wounds on the skin during treatment. When you apply makeup or lotion in the area, you may have clogged pores which can lead to irritation.
Clean The Treatment Area Regularly
Clean the treatment area regularly with mild soap and clean water. In doing this, you will prevent the accumulation of dirt or oil that can cause irritation or infections.
Give Up Smoking
Smoking can black or narrow your blood vessels, which can significantly reduce the amount of blood that gets to your face. This can worsen swelling and delay the healing process.
Go Alcohol-Free
Do not take alcohol for at least one week after getting facial fillers. Alcohol contains blood-thinning properties, which can make your bruises and swelling worse. It is also a diuretic, meaning it can dehydrate your body. Dehydration can slow down your healing process.
The Bottom Line
Facial fillers can take up to 4 weeks to settle and depend on things such as the type of the product used, the injected area, body chemistry, and post-treatment care. Steer clear of habits that may affect the filler’s settlement period and recovery such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and exposing your skin to UV light. If you arecontemplating getting facial fillers, be sure to invest some time in searching for a reputable clinic and a highly skilled and experienced practitioner. In doing so, you are more likely to get your desired effects and get proper treatment when you develop rare side effects after injections. Furthermore, book a consultation with your practitioner before getting the injections. Discuss things like your goals and financing to avoid disappointment and improve your overall experience in the filler world.
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