As we get older, our skin changes. Starting in your 20s, your body makes less collagen, about 10% less every 10 years. Collagen is what keeps your skin firm and smooth. When you have less of it, you may notice your cheeks look flatter, wrinkles become deeper, and your jawline isn’t as tight. Fillers like JUVEDERM® can help, but they only last a few months.
Collagen-stimulating fillers emerged as a solution to the demand for longer-lasting results. Rather than offering an immediate, short-term boost, these fillers offer gradual skin improvement over the next few months. In this blog, we’ll talk about how these fillers work and help you decide if they’re a good choice for you.
What Are Collagen-Stimulating Fillers?
As their name suggests, collagen-stimulating fillers are injectable treatments used to stimulate the body’s natural collagen production. Known as biostimulators, they trigger a mild inflammatory reaction that activates the body’s healing response.
This activates a group of cells referred to as fibroblasts, which, in turn, creates more collagen. The effect is gradual, so clients will only start noticing the changes once the collagen matures.
How Do They Differ from HA Fillers?
Collagen-stimulating fillers differ from hyaluronic acid fillers in the way they act. HA fillers add volume by having their molecules plump the treatment area. Some studies show that hyaluronic acid helps collagen synthesis, but the focus is placed on the gel volume. This is why HA fillers are frequently used to address areas such as the lips, cheeks, and undereye hollows.
On the other hand, collagen stimulators use special biocompatible compounds that get injected deeper in the skin. Their purpose is not necessarily to add volume, although some fillers have a gel-like form. Instead, these stimulators aim to gradually trigger the body’s collagen response as the active ingredients “irritate” the necessary areas.
Hyaluronic acid fillers last about six months, possibly more if you opt for a thicker formula. However, collagen-stimulating fillers can last for two years or more. This makes them a better choice for men and women who want a low-maintenance treatment for their wrinkles and fine lines.
Popular Biostimulators Available at Dermacare Medical Aesthetics
The filler market is continuously improving, and we are likely to see multiple biostimulator injectables in the future. So far, the most popular ones are the following:
1. Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers
Poly-L-Lactic acid injectables such as Sculptra® Aesthetic have been around for years, making them some of the most trusted biostimulators. When injected, the PLLA particles create a scaffold in the skin. The body responds to it by creating more collagen, which offers lasting volume for at least a year.
This treatment was originally used to restore facial volume in patients with HIV, but it has become increasingly popular for facial rejuvenation.
2. Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers
Fillers such as Radiesse® involve injecting a solution of calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres within a gel carrier. The gel offers immediate volume, making it the perfect choice for those who want to look sharp and youthful for a nearby event.
As the microsphere in the filler moves, it stimulates new collagen production. The body absorbs the gel first, but the CaHA microspheres take around 12 to 18 months to break down. However, the collagen fibers will continue to mature even when that happens.
3. Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Fillers
Unlike calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres that eventually get absorbed in the body, PMMA fillers like Bellafill® have non-biodegradable fillers. The PMMA microspheres are suspended in collagen gel and stimulate more collagen as the muscles move.
The effect is similar to calcium hydroxylapatite but is semi-permanent and can last for years. This makes proper patient selection a step that should not be overlooked.
Get Your Collagen Booster Today!
Hyaluronic acid fillers remain a popular choice for adding volume, but if you’re looking for a long-term effect, collagen stimulators are more reliable. They work with the body to offer a natural, youthful appearance, and they don’t require as much maintenance as HA fillers. Schedule an appointment at Dermacare Medical Aesthetics to get your biostimulator fillers today!
For more information about collagen-stimulating fillers, contact Dermacare Medical Aesthetics at 858-230-8040. We have offices in Rancho Bernardo, Carlsbad, San Juan Capistrano, and Encinitas. You can also fill out our online contact form, and we will get in touch with you soon.