As an experienced aesthetic injector, I often ask new patients about previous filler injections and so often the response is simply “I’ve had JUVÉDERM before!” Although this is helpful, many are unaware that there are five different JUVÉDERM fillers. I am going to break down the differences between the five different JUVÉDERM fillers for you today to give you a better idea of:
- What is filler?
- How are fillers different from each other?
- Where do we use different fillers?
What Are Injectable Dermal Fillers Made From?
One syringe of filler is one cc or one mL of a hyaluronic acid (HA) gel. HA is a normal sugar compound naturally found in the skin; it fills the spaces between collagen and elastin fibers to keep skin supple. Collagen and elastin form a scaffolding-like network under the skin to help support our skin and improve skin laxity. HA’s job is to bind water to collagen helping to hydrate the skin and cause it to appear more plump.
How Do Dermal Fillers Differ From Each Other?
The Originals: JUVÉDERM Ultra XC and JUVÉDERM Ultra Plus XC
The first two JUVÉDERM fillers that were commonly used in aesthetics were Ultra XC and Ultra Plus XC by Allergan. Both are volumizing fillers that use Hylacross technology. This means that the HA strands/compounds within the filler are all the same length and molecular weight. When these strands link up (cross link) and form a weaved pattern, it allows for more space between the HA strands which can draw water. Another term for this is hydrophilic. Both Ultra XC and Ultra Plus XC can last up to 12 months.
The Innovators: JUVÉDERM Volbella™, JUVÉDERM Vollure™ and JUVÉDERM Voluma™
The newest fillers from Allergan are Volbella, Vollure and Voluma. These three use a new technology known as Vycross. These are not nearly as hydrophilic because the HA strands used in these fillers have different lengths and molecular weights allowing for a tighter cross linking—meaning not much space to draw in water. HA will dissolve rapidly in its natural state so with the newer technology, the gel is woven tighter and maintains its shape longer. These fillers can last upwards of 18 to 24 months.
Which Filler is Best for Each Treatment Area?
Every patient has unique needs and goals, so our customized treatment plan will vary. In general, the best uses for different JUVÉDERM fillers are:
- Ultra: Since this filler is volumizing and can draw water, it is most commonly used for lip augmentation.
- Ultra Plus: More firm than Ultra but also very plumping, Ultra Plus is also used in lips.
- Voluma: This firm formula is great for lifting and contouring the face—think cheekbones, chin, jawline and temples.
- Volbella: A very soft and subtle formula, Volbella gives a great hydrated look to lips and is perfect for filling soft lines like the wrinkles that form around the mouth and upper lip.
- Vollure: Mildly plumping but still soft, Vollure is a perfect formula for a more pouty lip and also for filling nasolabial folds using a combination of fillers in a treatment.
Dermal Filler Treatments in Camarillo and Ventura, CA Customized For You
At beyond|AESTHETICS, we will always take the time to figure out the best non-surgical rejuvenation plan for you. For example, if nasolabial folds are the concern, we often fill cheeks with Voluma first to lift the cheeks and help reduce the fold. If there is still a line and/or fold, we can then use a softer product to fill in the remaining deficit.
Looking to address marionette lines? We can fill the chin and/or jaw with Voluma first then soften the area with a finer product like Vollure or Volbella. Lips are often filled with Ultra XC to give a more plump look and then can be augmented with Volbella for a more hydrated look. Vollure can be added to the tear trough area and if there is still a slight deficit, Volbella can be used to fill the under-eye further. We can also add BOTOX® to your treatment plan to address frown lines and crow’s feet.
And always, if you have questions, please come in for a consultation as we would love to create the perfect filler plan custom to you!
