Natural-Looking Fillers Dominate 2025 Medspa Trends
Facial fillers are a cosmetic procedure used to enhance facial appearance. Commonly used materials include autologous fat, hyaluronic acid, collagen, poly-L-lactic acid, and calcium hydroxyapatite. The choice of filler material requires a comprehensive assessment of individual skin condition, the area being filled, and the desired effect.
Facial fillers are a cosmetic procedure used to enhance facial appearance. Commonly used materials include autologous fat, hyaluronic acid, collagen, poly-L-lactic acid, and calcium hydroxyapatite. The choice of filler material requires a comprehensive assessment of individual skin condition, the area being filled, and the desired effect.
- Autologous Fat
Autologous fat fillers involve extracting fat from the patient's abdomen, thighs, and other areas. After purification, they are injected into sunken areas of the face. This material offers excellent biocompatibility, is non-rejectable, and provides long-lasting results with a natural feel. It is suitable for large areas such as the forehead, temples, and cheeks. Swelling and bruising may occur after surgery, requiring a 1-3 month recovery period. Some fat will be absorbed, requiring subsequent injections.
- Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring polysaccharide in the human body that forms a gel-like filler through cross-linking technology. Common brands include Restylane and Juvederm. Hyaluronic acid is categorized by molecular weight and degree of cross-linking into large molecules (for body shaping) and small molecules (for hydration). Suitable for filling delicate areas such as tear troughs, nasolabial folds, and lips. Results are immediately visible and gradually disappear over 6-18 months. Care should be taken to avoid overinjection, which can cause stiffness.
- Collagen
Collagen fillers are primarily derived from animals or synthesized through genetic engineering techniques. They directly replenish collagen lost from the skin. They are suitable for improving superficial wrinkles and lip contouring, providing both immediate volume and stimulating autologous collagen regeneration. Results last 3-12 months. Some individuals may be allergic to animal-derived collagen, so a preoperative skin test is required.
- Poly-L-lactic acid
Poly-L-lactic acid is an absorbable synthetic material that achieves a progressive filling effect by stimulating fibroblast proliferation. Three to five injections are administered, separated by four to six weeks. Final results are visible after three to six months and can last for over two years. Suitable for correcting volume loss in the midface, requiring the physician to master injection placement to avoid nodule formation. 5. Calcium Hydroxyapatite
Calcium hydroxyapatite is a major inorganic component of human bones and teeth. This microspherical filler can coexist with tissue for a long time. It is primarily used for contouring areas requiring strong support, such as the nasal base and chin. The effects are long-lasting but irreversible. The injection technique is demanding, requiring precise control of dosage and placement. Post-operative displacement or a hard feel may occur.
Before undergoing facial fillers
You should fully assess your needs and the material's characteristics, and choose a reputable medical institution. Avoid pressing the injection site for 48 hours after surgery, avoid alcohol, tobacco, and strenuous exercise for one week, and maintain sun protection and moisturizing. Different materials may pose risks of swelling, bruising, and infection. If persistent redness, swelling, pain, or skin discoloration occurs, seek a follow-up consultation promptly. Frequent, long-term fillers may affect your natural facial expression, so it's recommended to wait at least six months between fillers.
