If you have unwanted fine lines and wrinkles on your face, then you may be considering having dermal filler treatments. Some of the oldest and most common types of dermal fillers are collagen-based fillers. These products are made from collagen, a protein that gives your skin firmness and elasticity but decreases with age. While collagen-based fillers work well for many, they're not for everyone. Here's a look at the pros and cons of this type of product.
Pro: Collagen is a substance already found in your body.
Some patients are afraid to inject a synthetic material into their skin. Collagen is natural; your body makes its own collagen, so you're not injecting something "fake" or "toxic." The collagen used in filler treatments is always sterilized as a part of the manufacturing process to reduce your risk of infections and reactions.
Pro: The procedure is simple, and the recovery is easy.
Typically, you only need a few injections in the treatment site. You can go back to work right after treatment, since any swelling, bruising, and pain should be minimal. Collagen does not cause the stinging, burning sensations that other fillers sometimes do since it's natural and well tolerated by your body.
Con: Collagen fillers don't last as long as some other types of fillers.
Your body will begin to break down the collagen pretty quickly after it is injected. Results vary widely from person to person, but most patients need injections every few months to preserve their new look. Synthetic fillers tend to last longer – up to several years sometimes – because your body won't break them down so quickly.
Con: Many collagen fillers are derived from animal sources.
Whether or not you see this as a "con" partially depends on your personal beliefs and values. Since many collagen fillers are generated from bovine or porcine tissues, they're not considered vegan, and are therefore not an option for you if you follow a lifestyle that eschews the use of animal products. There are also patients who cannot use collagen-based fillers because they're allergic to the animal proteins they contain. There are collagen fillers derived from human sources, such as cadaver skin, but once again, your personal beliefs and values will come into play when deciding whether or not this is a route you want to take.
To learn more about collagen fillers and your other dermal filler options, speak with a dermatologist in your area.
Share13 October 2016
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