Written by Blaise Geyer, PA-C “The Beauty Blaiser”
But They’re All Called Juvederm: Clearing up the Juvederm Filler Confusion
You come in expecting to get Juvederm Ultra in your cheeks because we’re running a special, but then your injector tells you that we need to use Voluma instead. But why? They’re all Juvederm products so what’s the difference? Whether this is your first experience with filler or you are a filler veteran, trying to differentiate between Allergan’s Juvederm fillers can be a bit mystifying. The fact that the names are so similar doesn’t help either: Ultra and Ultra Plus; Volbella, Voluma, Vollure, ..yikes! So let’s break it down so you know why we choose the product that we do and prove that there is a method to the madness.
Finding the Link Between Juvederm Products
All Juvederm fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance that gives volume and causes the appearance of hydrated, plump, and youthful skin. The difference between the Vol- products (Volbella, Voluma, Vollure) and they’re predecessors, Juvederm Ultra and Juvederm Ultra Plus, lies in how the HA in the products is cross-linked.
What is Hyaluronic Acid Cross-Linking?
In order to create a stable product, the hyaluronic acid (HA) molecules are cross-linked together and suspended in water to form a gel. The tighter these molecules are linked together, the thicker the gel becomes. Additionally, you can have different molecular weights of HA. HA molecules of the same molecular weight that are cross-linked together make up the “Hylacross” technology which is found in Juvederm Ultra and Juvederm Ultra Plus. When HA molecules of different molecular weights are cross-linked, this is known as “Vycross” technology. This makes up all of the Vol- products.
For you visual learners reading, think of these as a jar solely of ping pong balls (Hylacross) and a jar of ping pong balls and sand. The “sand” allows more HA to fill the jar and causes the molecules to be more tightly packed (Vycross). In addition, the thickness or thinness of each product is altered by how many balls +/- how much sand is there.
As a result, Vycross technology yields filler that:
- Lasts longer than traditional Hylacross
- Causes less swelling
- Creates more powerful lift and less spread, while still remaining soft
Taking Filler to Fabulous
Now that you know the difference between the Vol- and original Juvederm products, let’s unravel what makes each product unique and the uses for each of them.
Voluma: Thickest, strongest gel; ideal for deep injections on the cheek bones, jawline or temples. It creates excellent lift and volume. Lasts the longest, up to 2 years.
Volbella: Thinnest, most spreadable gel (think just less ping pong balls and sand in the jar); perfect for fine lines around the lips or to smooth under eyes. Lasts up to 12 months.
Vollure: “The Goldilocks”, perfect blend of durability and spreadability. Great for deep nasolabial folds because it allows for natural facial expressions and movement while creating a powerful lift. Lasts up to 18 months.
Juvederm Ultra Plus: thicker gel, works well for treating moderate to deep nasolabial folds. Lasts up to 12 months.
Juvederm Ultra: thinner, softer product, ideal for lips and softer facial lines and folds. Lasts 6-12 months.
So What is the Best Filler for Me?
As injectors with a multitude of injectable training, knowledge of facial anatomy, artistry and experience using these various fillers, we at L Aesthetics and Longevity are here to interpret your goals, select the right filler for you, and safely and skillfully deliver beautiful, natural results. Often the best and longest lasting results are created with a combination of different fillers as well as consistent visits. So whether you have been thinking about filler for awhile or just want to learn a little more, contact our office for a complimentary consultation and our skilled injectors will design a perfect treatment plan personalized for you.