Written by: Stephanie Marie Borjas, FNP-C
When choosing a medspa, something to consider is which dermal filler they use as a practice. Juvederm by Allergan and Restylane by Galderma are the leading dermal fillers in the world of aesthetics. Dermal fillers are made up of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid naturally occurs in the body, acting as a cushion and lubricant for the eyes and joints. Applied topically to the skin, hyaluronic acid acts as a humectant, meaning it draws moisture to the skin. Injected into the face, hyaluronic acid fillers give the skin a more youthful, plump appearance. HA fillers can be injected into the cheeks and temples for volume replenishment, can fill the marionette lines or nasolabial folds and most popularly injected into the lips for the perfect pout.
Now that we know what hyaluronic acid fillers are, how do we compare Juvederm products to Restylane? Both dermal fillers have more similarities than differences. Juvederm and Restylane fillers both contain hyaluronic acid and lidocaine that reduces pain during the injection process. The more the product is injected into the area, the more numb it becomes and more comfortable the patient receiving the treatment is. Both fillers have the same side effects which include (but are not limited to): bruising, redness and swelling. More serious side effects found in to occur with either filler includes vascular occlusion, skin discoloration and scarring. Both products have the same pretreatment and posttreatment instructions, including no vaccinations or dental work within two weeks of filler. After filler, the client is advised not to exercise for 24-48 hours to decrease swelling in the area of injection. Neither filler is covered by insurance because they are considered a cosmetic procedure.
Some differences between Juvederm and Restylane fillers are seen in the longevity of the product. HA fillers are broken down naturally by the body in 12 months, but it is said restylane wears off sooner than Juvederm products. The vycross technology used in manufacturing Juvederm filler aids in the filler’s longevity, lasting anywhere from 9-18 months depending on injection site. This technology creates a product that is longer lasting, more elastic and more cohesive. Vycross technology is the combination of low concentration hyaluronic acid with high concentration. The low concentration molecules will draw less water to it which causes swelling.
Juvederm voluma is the first FDA approved dermal filler for the enhancement of cheek and chin! FDA approval for a cosmetic hyaluronic acid filler is quite the achievement when it comes to combating static lines, wrinkles and folds. Juvederm is shown to be more moldable and helps create better lift and projection because of the cross linking of hyaluronic acid. The vycross technology helps with volume, fullness and natural smoothness. The results of Juvederm are seen immediately, while Restylane results are seen the next day.
L-Aesthetics and Longevity is proud to carry the Juvederm line of hyaluronic acid fillers by Allergan. It’s vycross technology makes for a smooth product our clients trust to be reliable and beautiful. Book an appointment or consultation today to try out this amazing line of dermal fillers for yourself!