by What are Collagen Fillers?
They are dermal fillers that contain stabilized forms of collagen to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and smooth out folds of skin. Collagen is the main structural protein found in skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and bones. As we age, our natural collagen production slows down leading to loss of volume and elasticity in the skin. They help replenish lost collagen and restore volume to facial features for a more youthful look.
The two main types of collagen fillers used in dermatology and cosmetic procedures are:
– Bovine Collagen: Bovine Collagen Filler is derived from cows and was one of the earliest forms of collagen used in dermal fillers. However, it can potentially cause allergic reactions in some people.
– Human Collagen: As the name suggests, human collagen fillers contain stabilized collagen that is cultivated from human fibroblasts. It replicates natural human collagen and has minimal risks of immunogenic reactions. Some popular brands that use stabilized human collagen include Juvederm, Restylane, and Sculptra.
How do They Work?
They work by stimulating your body’s natural collagen production when injected into the dermis or deep dermis layer of the skin. The stabilized collagen content in these fillers plumps up wrinkles and folds from within by adding volume. Over time, your fibroblast cells are induced to generate new collagen fibers that integrate with the injected collagen scaffold. This boosts collagen levels long-term for rejuvenated skin.
The injected collagen is slowly absorbed by the body gradually over 6-18 months depending on the specific product. As it’s absorbed, your natural collagen production takes over to maintain the wrinkle-filling and skin-tightening effects for up to 2 years in some cases.
Areas Treated with Collagen Fillers
Some of the most common areas treated with it include:
– Smile Lines/Nasolabial Folds: The creases extending from the nose to the corners of the mouth.
– Marionette Lines: The vertical folds extending from the corners of the mouth down towards the chin.
– Chin and Jawline Contouring: To refine chin profile and define jawline.
– Cheekbone Restoration: To add volume and lift to hollow or sagging cheeks for a more youthful look.
– Under-eye Hollows: For reducing dark circles and smoothing wrinkles around the eyes.
– Lip Enhancement: To augment thin lips for fuller thickness and definition.
Benefits
Some key benefits of collagen fillers include:
– Natural Looking Results: They replicate your body’s natural dermal structure for a very natural appearance.
– Instant Wrinkle Reduction: They immediately fill in wrinkles and folds upon injection for visible lift and tightening.
– Longer-Lasting Than Other Fillers: Collagen Filler generally last 6-18 months, much longer than hyaluronic acid fillers lasting 6-12 months.
– Stimulate Collagen Regeneration: The injected collagen induces your body’s fibroblast cells to generate new collagen for continued skin rejuvenation beyond the absorption period.
– Minimal Down Time: Collagen injections require no significant recovery or downtime allowing you to resume normal activities right away.
– Safe and Gentle: Allergy risks are minimal with FDA-approved collagen dermal fillers when administered by a licensed provider. The injections cause minimal pain or bruising.
Risks and Considerations
As with any cosmetic procedure, there are some potential risks to be aware of with collagen fillers:
– Allergic Reaction: Rare risk of developing sensitivity or allergy to bovine or human collagen component over time in sensitive individuals.
– Bruising or Swelling: Minor short-term bruising, redness or swelling is possible at injection sites, especially if on thinner skin.
– Lumps and Bumps: Injection of collagen too superficially can cause uneven lumps under the skin if not properly administered by an experienced specialist.
– Asymmetry: Fillers require artistry and experience to ensure even balance across both sides of the face. Subtle asymmetry could potentially occur.
– Cost: They generally have a higher price point than hyaluronic acid fillers as they last up to twice as long on skin.
Collagen dermal fillers are a very popular and predictable cosmetic injection treatment option for facial wrinkle reduction and skin rejuvenation. When performed by a qualified provider, they can provide natural-looking and long-lasting results with minimal side effects. While not permanent, they effectively counter the effects of aging for up to 2 years. Individual results may vary based on factors like skin type and lifestyle habits.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.
