The health and appearance of our skin is affected by a number of lifestyle, environmental and biological factors including sun damage, the weather, pollution, hormonal fluctuations and smoking. Our skin is under constant attack and it is little wonder that it begins to loose its elasticity and hence takes on a loose, less taut appearance. Dermal fillers are made from Hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring component of the skin. It has the remarkable ability to absorb more that 10 times its weight in water, thereby adding volume and creating a naturally lifted appearance. They are used to plump up the skin and give it a fuller, smoother appearance by delicately filling out permanent groves and lines in the face.
Areas commonly improved by dermal fillers include:
• Smile lines
• Nasolabial folds (the grooves on the lower face between the corner of your nose and mouth)
• Lipstick and smoker’s lines around the mouth
• More deep set wrinkles and lines
• Volume augmentation of the lips can also be performed
These treatments usually last for up to a year and depending on the type and age of the skin. If the procedure is not repeated the skin will gradually return to its pre-treatment condition. The procedure takes between 20-30 minutes using a very fine needle. Prior to this a cream is used to numb the area and in some cases a local anesthetic is used.
Results are instant. Any side effects are likely to include minimal redness and swelling as well as possible mild bruising at the injection site. Products used include Juvederm ULTRA and Restylane.