5 Popular Types of Dermal Fillers: Their Composition, and Uses

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to add plumpness, smooth wrinkles, and contour bone structure. If you want to enhance your lips, minimize nasolabial folds, or refresh dull skin, there’s a specific dermal filler designed for your needs.

Choosing the right one can help you achieve natural-looking results that last and boost your confidence. In this article we will explore the 5 most popular types of dermal fillers, what they are composed of, and when they are commonly chosen.

#1 Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid has a popular track record for being a reliable and versatile dermal filler. It is made from the same fluid that surrounds our joints and skin tissue. Injections of this filler result in more volume and reduced wrinkle lines. Here are a few situations where Hyaluronic acid may be most beneficial:

• Forehead furrows (worry lines)
• Indentations on cheeks
• Defining the lip outline
• Various scars, including those from burns, acne, and injuries
• Crow’s feet around the eyes
• Frown lines between the brows
• Marionette lines at the mouth corner
• Vertical lines on the lips (smoker’s lines)

Hyaluronic acid is non-permanent meaning it will gradually break down and reapplication is needed to continuously achieve the desired look. That said, this water-based fluid typically lasts 6- 12 months.

#2 Polyalkylimide

Another common type of dermal filler is Polyalkylimide a semi-permanent option frequently used by plastic surgeons. Its popularity stems from its biocompatibility, which allows it to integrate well with human tissue, resulting in little to no adverse reactions. Polyalkylimide is commonly used to:

• Address pronounced wrinkles like nasolabial folds or indented scars
• Add volume to thin lips
• Define and highlight cheekbones and the jawline, and restore facial fullness that diminishes with age

Polyalkylimide is also radio-transparent, so it does not affect X-ray testing/results, furthering its appeal.

#3 Calcium hydroxylapatite

Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) is one of the most studied dermal fillers worldwide. It is naturally found in human bones as a mineral-like compound. However, when used as a derma filler, Calcium hydroxylapatite is biosynthetically produced. This means no animals or animal products are used, which lowers your risk of allergic reactions.

For over 20 years, CaHA has been a reliable option for the following:

• Noticeable wrinkles like smile lines, puppet lines, and forehead furrows
• Adding volume to the cheeks and other features of the face
• Restoring volume in areas experiencing facial thinning

#4 Polylactic acid

Polylactic acid is a type of synthetic filler that is injected into the face, stimulating the body to produce its own collagen. As a collagen stimulator, it does not produce immediate results, instead, the effects are gradual over a period of months. With that all said, for over 40 years, Polylactic acid has been used to:

• Fill the lines caused by laughing
• Plump thin lips
• Treat deep nasolabial folds

It is also important to note that while it is long-lasting, Polylactic acid is semi-permanent, meaning touch-ups may be needed down the line.

#5 Polymethyl-methacrylate microspheres (PMMA)

Finally, number 5 on our list of most popular dermal fillers is PMMA, or polymethyl methacrylate, a synthetic polymer made from methyl methacrylate monomers. It is a versatile material known for its durability and biocompatibility, making it suitable for various medical and cosmetic applications.

What many patients enjoy about PMMA as a filler is that it is superior in terms of permanence. While it can be dissolved, this filler can last for years. The most common uses for PMMA are:

• Medium-to-deep wrinkle treatment
• Improves the appearance of acne scars and other indentations.
• Used to enhance the volume of thin lips.
• Offers a more permanent solution compared to other fillers like collagen or hyaluronic acid.

Step into Confidence with an Ideal Dermal Filler Treatment

By understanding the unique benefits and uses of the most common types of dermal fillers, you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Whether you seek a temporary boost with hyaluronic acid or a longer-lasting solution like PMMA, each option offers a way to rejuvenate your appearance.

If you’re ready to embrace true confidence, come explore Mirako Spa. Our expert team is here to help you discover the perfect dermal filler to achieve your goals through a brief & FREE consultation.

Take the first step today by visiting our Dermal Filler Services to learn how you can become your most confident self!