Hyaluronic Acid is a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler used to restore volume and smooth facial wrinkles. Wondering if it’s the right dermal filler for you? This guide covers its benefits, longevity, injection techniques and cost considerations.
What Is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic Acid is a range of FDA-approved dermal filler products composed of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body. Hyaluronic acid is often found in skincare products because of its ability to hold water and keep the skin moisturised.
Hyaluronic acid fillers like Hyaluronic Acid are made in a laboratory, but they are chemically very similar to the hyaluronic acid that our bodies produce. Hyaluronic Acid is created using a special process that mimics the structure of HA, so it provides the same benefits for the skin.
How Does Hyaluronic Acid Work?
Hyaluronic acid, Hyaluronic Acid’s main ingredient, is a hydrophilic substance. This means it attracts and retains moisture, keeping the skin plump and hydrated. HA adds volume to areas affected by ageing or loss of elasticity. It fills in creases and fine lines, smoothing wrinkles to restore your youthful look.
But does it stay in your body forever? The short answer is ‘no, it does not.’ Over time, the body naturally metabolises Hyaluronic Acid filler injections. This means that you need maintenance treatments to reap the benefits of Hyaluronic Acid.
Injection Process
- Assessment of facial anatomy. Your aesthetic practitioner will assess your face and check the areas you want to treat. During the consultation, feel free to discuss your goals and concerns with your practitioner.
- Filler injection. Your chosen Hyaluronic Acid filler will be injected into the treatment area. This process only takes a few minutes, especially if you use it in a small area, such as the lips or nasolabial folds.
- Post-treatment effects. Mild swelling or redness may occur but usually resolves within days.
Key Uses of Hyaluronic Acid Fillers:
Here’s an overview of what Hyaluronic Acid fillers can do for you:
- Reduce facial wrinkles
- Enhance lip volume
- Restore lost volume in cheeks
- Provide additional contour to facial features
Cost of Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Fillers
In Singapore, Hyaluronic Acid dermal fillers typically cost $800 or more per syringe. However, prices will vary between each type/variation.
Types of Hyaluronic Acid Products and Their Uses
Hyaluronic Acid offers a range of injectable fillers for facial rejuvenation, contouring and wrinkle reduction. Each formulation targets specific treatment areas based on individual needs. Learn more about them below:
Hyaluronic Acid Volux
Hyaluronic Acid Volux is tailored to enhance and define the chin and jawline, offering a non-surgical solution for lower face sculpting. This injectable filler contains lidocaine to reduce pain during treatment.
Hyaluronic Acid Voluma
Hyaluronic Acid Voluma is primarily used to add volume to the cheek, chin and temple areas. As we age, our faces lose volume, leading to hollow cheeks and temples. By adding volume to these areas, Voluma provides a subtle lift, helps restore contour and creates a more youthful profile.
Hyaluronic Acid Volift
Hyaluronic Acid Volift is designed to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles. It is used to add contour to the face and restore volume to areas with deep depressions.
Hyaluronic Acid Volbella
Hyaluronic Acid Volbella is commonly used to add volume to the lips, perioral lines and under eyes. It is a softer, lighter filler that provides subtle, natural-looking results.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Fillers
1. Immediate and Long-Lasting Results
- Effects are visible immediately and can last between 12 months to 2 years.
- Help restore lost volume in targeted areas.
2. Natural-Looking Facial Enhancement
- Worried about being unable to move your face after undergoing a cosmetic procedure? Fret not because hyaluronic acid fillers like Hyaluronic Acid produce a more natural look. You will still be able to make facial expressions after undergoing this procedure.
3. Minimally Invasive with No Downtime
- Hyaluronic Acid is a relatively quick, non-surgical treatment with little to no recovery time.
4. Customisable Treatment Plans
- Hyaluronic Acid’s different formulations were formulated to suit specific treatment areas such as nasolabial folds, lips and jawline.
- Tailored solutions for varying degrees of sagging skin and volume loss.
5. Reversible with Hyaluronidase
- If adjustments are needed, hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved safely using hyaluronidase.
- This ensures flexibility and confidence in injectable fillers.
Where Can Hyaluronic Acid Be Injected?
Hyaluronic Acid can be applied to various treatment areas, each serving a specific purpose in facial rejuvenation and facial contouring. The table below outlines common injection sites and their benefits.
| Treatment Area | Hyaluronic Acid Formulation | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Chin and jawline | Volux | Enhances definition, contours, non-surgical solution for jawline enhancement. |
| Cheeks, chin and temples | Voluma | Restores volume, lifts sagging skin, improves skin quality. |
| Deep skin depressions | Volift | Softens moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. |
| Lips and vertical lip lines | Volbella | Subtle lip augmentation, smooths fine lines. |
| Under-eyes and tear troughs | Volbella | Restores volume and brightens under-eye area. |
Treatment Process: What to Expect
Before Treatment
- Consultation. The treatment starts with an evaluation based on your prior treatment history and desired results.
- Preparation. The skin is cleansed to remove makeup, oil and other impurities. Your practitioner will then mark each injection point for precision.
During Treatment
- Filler injection. The practitioner administers your choice of Hyaluronic Acid filler using a prefilled syringe.
- Minimal discomfort. Most formulations contain lidocaine to reduce pain during and after injection.
After Treatment
- Minimal downtime. You may resume daily activities immediately with minor restrictions.
- Temporary swelling or bruising. Mild swelling or redness at the injection site typically resolves within days.
- Post-treatment care. Avoid excessive sun exposure, alcohol consumption and strenuous activity for at least 24 hours. If you need to go outdoors for an extended period, wear sunscreen and a hat to protect your face from the sun.
How Long Do Hyaluronic Acid Results Last?
How long Hyaluronic Acid fillers last depends on the treatment area, formulation and your metabolism.
| Hyaluronic Acid Formulation | Treatment Area | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Volux | Chin and jawline | Up to 12 months |
| Voluma | Cheeks and mid-face | Up to 24 months |
| Volift | Nasolabial folds, marionette lines | Up to 15 months |
| Volbella | Lips and vertical lip lines | Up to 12 months |
Factors Affecting Longevity
- Treatment area. Lips and nasolabial folds break down fillers faster because of frequent facial movements.
- Metabolism. People with faster metabolism may absorb dermal fillers more quickly.
- Collagen production. Higher collagen levels can prolong Hyaluronic Acid’s effects.
- Skin quality and care. Proper hydration and aftercare can extend the dermal filler’s effects.
Risks and Side Effects of Hyaluronic Acid
While Hyaluronic Acid fillers are generally safe, some temporary redness and mild side effects may occur. Here are additional side effects you might experience after the treatment.
Common Side Effects
- Temporary redness, swelling or bruising at the injection site
- Mild discomfort or tenderness
- Small lumps or uneven texture (usually resolves within days)
Rare Side Effects
- Infection at the treatment area
- Facial asymmetry if injected improperly
- Allergic reactions (very uncommon)
- Skin necrosis (extremely rare) if injected into a blood vessel
Tips to Minimise Risks
- Choose a qualified aesthetic practitioner experienced in filler injection.
- Avoid blood thinners and alcohol before treatment to reduce prolonged bleeding.
- Follow aftercare instructions, including avoiding strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours.
- Use cold compresses to reduce swelling.
Factors Affecting Cost
- Treatment area and amount of the product needed. Larger areas or deeper facial lines require more fillers.
- Practitioner expertise. More established and experienced practitioners usually charge higher fees compared to younger, less experienced ones.
- Clinic location. Clinics located in commercial or business centres typically charge more for aesthetic procedures.
Reversing Hyaluronic Acid – Can It Be Dissolved?
Yes, Hyaluronic Acid fillers can be dissolved using hyaluronidase, an enzyme that dissolves hyaluronic acid fillers. This is useful if a patient is unsatisfied with results or experiences complications. Most patients see reversal effects within 24 to 48 hours.
Conclusion
Hyaluronic Acid filler injections are a versatile FDA-approved solution for wrinkles, facial volume loss and facial asymmetry. With formulations tailored for different concerns, it has something for everyone. For the best results, choose an experienced provider and follow proper aftercare.
Ready for a personalised facial rejuvenation plan or want to learn about fillers straight from Dr Justin Boey? Get in touch with or schedule an appointment with Sozo Clinic today!
