Types of Dermal Fillers: HA, Calcium & Biostimulators Explained
Quick Answer: Three main filler families exist: hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers — reversible, versatile, the default choice (Juvederm, Restylane); calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse-type) — firmer, collagen-stimulating, for structure; and biostimulators like poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) — no instant volume, but they build your own collagen over months. Most patients start HA; the others serve specific structural and regenerative goals.
Family 1: Hyaluronic Acid — The Versatile Default
HA is a sugar molecule your skin already makes; filler versions are cross-linked to last months instead of days. Strengths: immediate results, natural feel, product lines tuned per area (soft for lips/under-eye, robust for cheeks/jaw), and — decisively — full reversibility with hyaluronidase. Duration: 6–18 months by product and area. For first-timers and most indications, HA is the rational choice.
Family 2: Calcium Hydroxylapatite — Structure Plus Stimulation
Microspheres of a bone-mineral-like compound in gel: thicker, higher lifting capacity, and it stimulates collagen as it degrades. Used for deep structural work (jawline, hands) and skin-quality dilutions. Duration ~12–18 months. Caveat: not dissolvable — the undo button doesn't exist, so injector selection stakes rise.
Family 3: Biostimulators — Your Own Collagen, On Order
Poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra-type) doesn't fill — it triggers fibroblasts to manufacture collagen over 2–3 months across multiple sessions. Results are gradual, diffuse, natural, and long (2+ years). Ideal for overall facial deflation and post-weight-loss volume loss; wrong for precise shaping (that's HA's job). See our dedicated Sculptra cluster.
Permanent Fillers: The Category to Refuse
Silicone and other permanent injectables still circulate in unregulated corners. Faces change for decades; permanent product in a changing face is how granulomas and surgical removals happen. No reputable dermatology clinic uses them — treat any offer as a fire alarm.
FAQs
Can families be combined? Yes — a common plan: biostimulator for global volume, HA for precise features.
Which is safest? HA, by reversibility — the others are safe in expert hands but unforgiving of error.
Which lasts longest? Biostimulators (2+ years of your own collagen), then CaHA, then HA by product.
How do I know what I need? You don't have to — that's the consultation's job; your job is choosing the doctor.
Consult Dr Neha Batra at DermaWorld Skin Clinic, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi 📞 Call: 9911100050 | 💬 WhatsApp Us | 📩 Book via Contact Form Clinic: Q-4, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi – 110027