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Acne is a temporary skin condition caused by a buildup of dead skin cells and oil in the hair follicles. While these breakouts can be easily treated with antibiotics, salicylic acid, retinoid, and more, depending on the severity. It may often leave behind scars – which take a while to clear out. Sometimes, blackheads, whiteheads, and pits may form on the skin, leaving it rough and scaly.
Acne also forms blemishes and discolorations that take weeks or months to fade, even after undergoing treatments. However, there are many effective remedies to deal with scarring, and dermal fillers are one way to improve the depressions caused by acne.
How Do Dermal Fillers Work?
Dermal fillers are gel-like, injectable soft implants that smoothen out wrinkles and plump out indentations caused by acne. They show promising results in refining the appearance of scars by raising depressed lines and dents. Nevertheless, they don’t have a permanent effect – the results only last a few months. While all injectable dermal fillers are safe, skin testing is essential to prevent allergies when these contain bovine collagen. Generally, fillers are classified based on the ingredient they have. Some of these include:
1. Hyaluronic Acid:
It is a substance present in the connective tissues of the skin. The outcome of hyaluronic acid usually lasts up to twelve months before your body slowly absorbs the containing particles. According to The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, many hyaluronic fillers are filled with lidocaine, which helps reduce discomfort during and after the treatment (1). Some of the approved brands that produce hyaluronic acid fillers are; Juvederm, Belotero, Hylaform, Prevelle, etc.
2. Poly-L-lactic Acid
Poly-L-lactic acid is a safe, synthetic substance usually categorized as a collagen stimulator. They are biocompatible materials that smoothen fine lines by assisting the skin to form natural collagen. Poly-L-lactic acid is generally used to treat chronic facial wrinkles, and the outcome can last for over two years with or without mild complications. Artificial collagens include Zyderm, Zyplast, Cosmoderm, etc., extracted from animals (cows) or humans.
3. Calcium Hydroxylapatite
This is a naturally occurring ingredient primarily extracted from human bones. The consistency of Calcium Hydroxylapatite is usually thicker than hyaluronic acid dermal filler. This substance lasts for up to twelve months for most people. Calcium Hydroxylapatite is known to trigger natural collagen generation, and it is generally used to treat thicker lines and wrinkles.
4. Fat Injections
This dermal filler is removed from the body and injected back to act as a facial filler. However, not all harvested fat cells thrive; hence cosmetic surgeons always infuse it excessively, causing small temporary bumps to grow on the skin. Luckily, the results last longer than other implants. In addition, injected fats help renew the cheek volume, plump the eyelids, and raise other areas. Nonetheless, fat filler surgeries are pretty complicated, so they must be performed by an experienced cosmetic surgeon to avoid allergic complications.
Dermal Filler Procedure
1. A dermal filler procedure only lasts a few minutes. Before starting the treatment, marks are drawn at specific points to indicate the injection points. (2)
2. Like any other surgical procedure, the marked spots or filling sites are properly cleaned with a disinfectant – antibacterial solution to prevent allergic reactions. Then, you will be given local anesthesia to obstruct nerve conduction and numb the area.
Also Read – How to Use Clove Oil for Treating Acne? A Perfect Guide for You
3. The syringes with the dermal fillers are carefully inserted into the marked spots. Again, a professional must administer these fillers to avoid complications or swelling.
4. The surgical markings are washed, and a cold compress is placed on the face. This procedure usually does not require any additional care or application of ointment. Hence, you can return to your daily routine after getting a dermal filler.
Cost of Dermal Fillers
It is somewhat impossible to place a price on dermal fillers. While the price of 1ml can cost between $550 – $600, the amount of dermal filler required is dependent on the extent of filling and a few other reasons, which are: (3)
1. Number of Injection Syringes
While dermal fillers are priced per syringe, multiple needles are used to complete a single procedure. So technically, if you use one syringe, your overall treatment cost will be less than a person who requires more than one syringe treatment.
2. Location
The hospital location is a significant factor that determines the price of your treatment. Specialists based in high-priced countries charge a higher fee.
3. Experience of the Surgeon
Highly qualified personnel who administer dermal fillers or specialists in this field are most likely to charge more for your procedure.
4. Type of Dermal Fillers
The cost of dermal filler can vary depending on the type of filler used. However, the results of the procedure are not necessarily dependent on the type of filler used. Dermal fillers typically last between 12-18 months; hence you need to consider the cost of the repeat treatments, which is similar to the initial cost. The average price of a dermal filler is approx $600 – $800 per syringe.
Regardless of the price or worth of high-quality filler treatments, these fillers give long-lasting outcomes. Patients who opt for dermal fillers to cure recurring acne-related skin conditions have testified to seeing instant, noticeable results. While facial creams and oils require a specific healing duration, dermal fillers do not require a recovery time.
Side Effects of Using a Dermal Filler
If you had an autologous fat injection treatment, your face would appear overfilled or swollen for the first few days till it smoothens out. Sometimes, the treatment may trigger a reoccurrence of acne due to irritation or reaction to the type of dermal filler. Also, redness and itching may occur at the point of injection. Other common side effects of injectable fillers include:
- Itching
- Pain
- Bruising
- Rash
- Swelling
Rare Side Effects include:
- It may lead to the formation of small nodules around the application site
- Infection
- It may cause an inflammatory reaction on the skin called granulomas
- You may observe leakage at the filler injection area
- Dermal fillers are likely to cause harm to the blood vessels
- Blindness
- You may notice movements around the region of the application
- Tissue death as a result of blood flow restriction.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
While some fillers last for limited durations and others last for years, dermal fillers are temporary solutions to enhance the skin. Generally, it can last anywhere between four months to eighteen months, depending on the type of dermal filler used. Nonetheless, dermal fillers allow you to enjoy your new skin without requiring any additional procedure or technique.
Also Read – 10 DIY Anti-Aging Face Masks for Wrinkles You Should Try at Home
Is Getting a Dermal Filler Worth It?
Dermal fillers offer instant results and outcomes, unlike facial products. While some patients can endure these processes and routines, others prefer immediate results. Therefore, if your scar is affecting your self-esteem, you should get a high-quality dermal filler. It is a safe solution to stubborn acne scars. Dermal fillers will also make your face appear healthier, enhancing your overall appearance.
Always remember to consider the cost and the qualification of the practitioner before getting an injectable implant. An article published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons explains that facial implants are compatible with body tissues and help augment or improve the face structure (4).
Alternative to Dermal Fillers
Yes, several cosmetic procedures guarantee a similar result as facial fillers. Some of which have shown successes over the years include:
- Chemical Peels
- Lotions
- Dermabrasion
- Microdermabrasion
- Collagen Stimulators
Summary
Getting a dermal filler is an excellent solution for acne scars; however, if you notice any symptom of inflammation, redness, or fever, seek appropriate medical attention. Specialists usually advise against exposure to extreme temperatures and massaging the area to avoid bump growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which dermal filler should I get?
The nature of dermal filler applied depends on your facial structure and treatment goals. To ascertain the best filler that suits your facial anatomy, you should speak with your dermatologist before the procedure.
Does the treatment hurt?
After the procedure, you’ll only experience slight discomfort for the first few days. You can ask for a topical anesthetic cream after the treatment, but it is usually unnecessary. Instead, go for dermal fillers produced with lidocaine to help soothe the discomfort.
How long does its effect last?
The dermal fillers’ effect for the filling is temporary, lasting for a maximum of 18 months. However, in this period, you can enjoy smooth skin without the need to take any extra care.
Should I go for dermal filler?
It is generally a safe solution for filling up scars. It can also plump up your face and delay the appearance of wrinkles. However, remember to factor in the recurring cost once the effect of one filling fades off. Also, go to a qualified practitioner to get the filling done.
References –
- “Learn about injectable dermal fillers” – americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org
- “Facial Implants” – plasticsurgery.org
- “What are the steps of a dermal fillers procedure?” – plasticsurgery.org
- “What’s the Difference Between Botox and Dermal Fillers?” – healthline.com
