Fillers or skin boosters? What's right for your face

Injectable treatments are among the most requested aesthetic treatments in London. Two names you will hear often are dermal fillers and skin boosters. They are related, but they do very different jobs.

What are dermal fillers?

Most dermal fillers are gels made from hyaluronic acid, a substance found naturally in the skin. They are injected to add volume or shape to specific areas, for example cheeks, lips, the jawline or deep lines around the mouth. Results are visible straight away and typically last several months to over a year, depending on the product and area.

What are skin boosters?

Skin boosters also usually contain hyaluronic acid, but in a thinner, more fluid form. Instead of adding shape, they are spread through the skin to improve hydration, texture and glow. They are often given as a course of treatments, with results building gradually.

Which is right for you?

• Want to restore lost volume or define a feature? Fillers may be discussed.
• Want skin that looks more hydrated, smoother and healthier, without changing your features? Skin boosters may suit you better.
• Not sure? A good practitioner will assess your face and may suggest neither, and recommend skincare or other treatments instead.

Safety comes first

Injectables are medical procedures and carry risks, including bruising, swelling, infection and, rarely, more serious complications. In England it is illegal to give these treatments for cosmetic purposes to anyone under 18. Rules for non-surgical cosmetic treatments in the UK are being tightened, so check the latest guidance before you book.

Before booking, check that your practitioner:

• Is a qualified healthcare professional or appropriately trained and insured practitioner, and can show their credentials.
• Offers a full consultation, discusses risks and gives you time to decide.
• Uses recognised, traceable products and tells you which product they are using.
• Has a clear plan for aftercare and for managing complications.

Red flags

Be cautious of very low prices, pressure to book on the day, treatments offered at parties, or practitioners who will not answer questions about training and products.

This article is general information, not medical advice. Always have a face-to-face consultation before any injectable treatment.

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