Fillers vs. Biostimulators: What’s the Difference?
Today we are diving into the world of injectable cosmetic treatments to help you understand the differences between fillers and biostimulators. Whether you're looking to enhance your facial features or rejuvenate your skin, here's what you need to know.
There are two main categories of products that we have to choose from, the “dermal filler” bucket and the “biostimulator” bucket. Both are great options but there are subtle difference between them that may influence either my choice (as a provider) or your choice (as the patient).
The main reason I would reach for one of the fillers on my shelf is that all of them provide instant enhancement.
We have lots of options to choose from, with each of the products designed for specific purposes. These purposes could include adding volume, reducing wrinkles, or creating structure thereby enhancing specific facial features.
Common products are made of hyaluronic acid gel, calcium apatite and collagen.
The Mechanism of action is simple – we physically fill in lines, wrinkles, or areas with lost volume. The great thing about fillers is that they provide immediate results.
When comparing them to biostimulators we take into consideration a couple of other key elements including:
Duration of Results: The effects of fillers are visible right away but are temporary. They typically last from several months to a couple of years, depending on the type of filler.
Treatment Areas: Commonly treated areas include the lips, cheeks, nasolabial folds, and under the eyes.
Fillers are applied by injecting the product into the skin using very small needles.
Biostimulators: Natural Rejuvenation
In contrast to fillers, the purpose of biostimulators is slightly different. These products aim to stimulate your body's natural collagen production, leading to long-term skin rejuvenation and improved skin quality. As a result, while there may be an “immediate” improvement, this is most of these products involve suspending the active ingredients into solutions and these solutions dissipate from the treated area over 8-12 hours. But then the magic happens and the products gradually activate collagen production which results in natural-looking improvements over time. We love biostimulators because they can be used for a broader facial rejuvenation as there is also an enhancing effect to skin quality, texture, and elasticity.
When comparing them to fillers we will address the same 2 items listed above:
Duration of Results: Because the resulting collagen is your own collagen, the results from biostimulators can last longer than traditional fillers, often persisting for a year or more. That said, once we achieve the desired result we do recommend retreatment to keep up with the natural volume and collagen loss that occurs with aging.
Treatment areas: The disadvantage of these products is that they are not really useful for some areas of the face including forehead and lips.
Like fillers, these products are injected into the skin but they are typically injected deeper.
Choosing Between Fillers and Biostimulators
Immediate vs. Gradual Results: If you’re looking for instant enhancement for specific areas, fillers might be your best bet. For a more gradual and comprehensive improvement, consider biostimulators.
Temporary vs. Long-Term Effects: Fillers offer temporary results and may require regular maintenance. Biostimulators provide longer-lasting effects that build up over time.
Targeted vs. Comprehensive Treatment: Fillers are ideal for addressing specific concerns or enhancing particular features. Biostimulators provide a holistic approach to overall skin rejuvenation.
Patient Preferences: The choice between fillers and biostimulators often comes down to personal goals and whether you prefer immediate or gradual changes.
Final Thoughts
At Trevi, we listen carefully to your desires and your timeline and help you navigate the best decision for your goal so the decision is less about “should I do fillers or biostimulators” and more about “when are these products useful for my ultimate goals.
If you are interested in finding out more about both types of products book a consultation with our injectors today!
