Dermal fillers have revolutionized the world of aesthetics, offering a non-surgical way to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours.
Most modern dermal fillers are crafted from natural components found in the human body, making them far safer and more biocompatible compared to what was available two decades ago. This evolution has resulted in treatments with fewer risks and more natural-looking results.
In this post, we’ll focus exclusively on certified dermal fillers—those that meet strict safety and quality standards. We’ll avoid discussing controversial or illegal options, as anyone considering dermal fillers should steer clear of uncertified products for their own safety and well-being.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) is a naturally occurring mineral found in human bones. When used in dermal fillers, it is suspended in a gel-like substance to create a biocompatible, long-lasting solution.
CaHA-based fillers are ideal for:
- Restoring volume in deeper facial folds and wrinkles.
- Contouring areas like the cheeks and jawline.
- Stimulating natural collagen production for sustained improvements.
Examples of Products based on Calcium Hydroxylapatite
Radiesse is probably the most famous product made of CaHa
Radiesse is the most well-known brand that uses CaHA as its active ingredient.
How long does CaHa last?
CaHA fillers generally last between 12–18 months, depending on the treatment area and the patient’s metabolism.
Quick facts about Calcium Hydroxylapatite:
| What it is | A mineral found in bones, used in gel form. |
| When/where used | Deeper wrinkles, facial contouring, collagen stimulation. |
| Known brands | Radiesse. |
| How long it lasts | 12–18 months. |
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a sugar molecule naturally present in the skin and connective tissues. It retains moisture, making it key for hydration and plumpness. HA-based fillers are extremely popular because they are reversible and provide instant results. By far, Hyaluronic Acid is the most common component in dermal fillers. Hyaluronic Acid fillers are used for:
- Reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
- Adding volume to lips, cheeks, and under-eye hollows.
- Hydrating and rejuvenating the skin.
Examples of products based on Hyaluronic Acid
Juvéderm is one of the most famous filler based on HA
Popular brands that base their fillers in HA include Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero.
How long do HA fillers last?
HA fillers typically last between 6–18 months, depending on the formulation and area treated.
Quick facts about Hyauronic Acid:
| What it is | A natural sugar molecule found in skin. |
| When/where used | Wrinkles, volume restoration, hydration. |
| Known brands | Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero. |
| How long it lasts | 6–18 months. |
The different types of Hyaluronic Acid in dermal fillers
Within the range of dermal fillers based on HA, there are also differences based on the type of HA.
High Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid (HMW-HA)
- Characteristics: Consists of larger molecules that stay on the surface of the skin or tissue.
- Uses: Commonly used for hydration and protective barriers, as it forms a film on the surface, locking in moisture.
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, helps reduce redness and irritation, and enhances skin elasticity.
Products based on HMW-HA and for exampe Meso-Warthon or Profhilo.
Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid (LMW-HA)
- Characteristics: Composed of smaller molecules that penetrate deeper into the skin.
- Uses: Often included in serums and injectables for deeper hydration and anti-aging benefits.
- Benefits: Improves skin plumpness, elasticity, and fine lines by delivering moisture below the skin’s surface.
Products based on LMW-HA are for example Restylane Skinboosters.
Cross-linked Hyaluronic Acid
- Characteristics: HA molecules are chemically cross-linked to create a gel-like structure that is more stable and long-lasting.
- Uses: Commonly found in dermal fillers like Restylane and Juvederm.
- Benefits: Provides volume and structural support for longer periods compared to non-cross-linked HA.
Products that are based on Cross-Linked HA are for example Juvéderm Volite.
Learn more about Cross-Linked HA in this post: Differences between cross-linked and non-cross-linked HA.
Collagen
Collagen is a protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin. While natural collagen production decreases with age, dermal fillers can replace or stimulate collagen to restore a youthful appearance.
Collagen-based fillers are used for:
- Reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
- Adding subtle volume to the face.
- Enhancing skin texture and elasticity.
Examples of products and fillers that use collagen as ingredient
Nithya Stimulate is a type of collagen filler based on hydrolyzed collagen.
How long does collagen-based fillers last?
Collagen fillers usually last 3–6 months as the body absorbs the material naturally pretty fast.
Quick facts about Collagen:
| What it is | A structural protein found in skin and connective tissues. |
| When/where used | Fine lines, skin texture improvement, subtle volume. |
| Known brands | Zyderm, Cosmoderm. |
| How long it lasts | 3–6 months. |
Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA)
Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA) is a biodegradable synthetic material that works by stimulating the skin’s collagen production. Unlike other fillers, it doesn’t provide instant results but builds volume over time.
PLLA is used for:
- Treating deep wrinkles and folds.
- Restoring facial volume lost due to aging.
- Stimulating collagen for long-lasting results.
Examples of fillers based on Poly-L-lactic acid
Sculptra is a filler based on poly-L-lactic acid
The most popular brand using PLLA is Sculptra Aesthetic.
How long does PLLA last?
PLLA fillers can last up to 2 years but may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results.
Quick facts about PLLA:
| What it is | A synthetic material that stimulates collagen. |
| When/where used | Deep wrinkles, volume restoration, collagen boost. |
| Known brands | Sculptra Aesthetic. |
| How long it lasts | Up to 2 years. |
Please Note
This article is for informational purposes only. Dermal filler treatments should always be conducted by certified professionals who can assess your individual needs and recommend the safest, most effective options, and be able to perform the treatment with medical and anatomical precision.
If you’re a certified professional, TopDermal is your trusted B2B partner for high-quality dermal fillers. We deliver certified products anywhere in Europe within 2 working days.
Contact us today to discover how we can support your practice!