Your Guide to Types of Dermal Fillers For The Face
Dermal fillers are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments for enhancing facial features, restoring volume, and softening lines. But if you’ve ever seen names like Juvederm, Restylane, or Sculptra floating around, you might be wondering what the difference is and which one is right for you.
This guide breaks down the main types of dermal fillers, what they are commonly used for, how long they last, and what makes them unique, in simple terms.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are gel-like products that are injected under the skin to add volume, smooth lines, or enhance features like lips and cheeks. As we age, we naturally lose collagen and fat, which can cause sagging, hollowness, and deeper wrinkles. Fillers help bring back shape and fullness without surgery. They are often used in areas like the cheeks, lips, under-eyes, smile lines, marionette lines, jawline, chin, and temples.
What are the Types of Dermal Fillers?
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Brands you may know: Juvederm, Restylane, Revanesse Versa
Hyaluronic acid fillers are the most popular type. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a substance your body already naturally produces, so these fillers tend to look and feel very natural. HA fillers are often used for lip plumping, filling under-eye hollows, softening lines around the mouth, and restoring volume in the cheeks. They work quickly, so results are visible right away. They typically last between six months and one year, depending on the product and the area treated. A big benefit of HA fillers is that they can be dissolved if needed, which gives patients a sense of reassurance if they are nervous about looking “overdone”.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers
Brand you may know: Radiesse
Radiesse is a thicker filler that is great for creating structure and lift, especially in the cheeks, jawline, and deep folds around the mouth. It gives immediate results, but it also stimulates collagen production over time, which helps firm and smooth the skin from within. Radiesse typically lasts a year or longer. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, it cannot be dissolved, so it requires more careful placement and is best used with a skilled injector. This type of filler is ideal for someone who wants noticeable contouring and longer-lasting results without surgery.
Collagen-Stimulating Fillers
Brand you may know: Sculptra
Sculptra works differently than traditional fillers. Instead of filling areas right away, it stimulates your body to build its own collagen over the course of several months. This makes it a great option for overall facial rejuvenation, softening deep wrinkles, and restoring volume slowly and naturally. Sculptra is often used in the cheeks, temples, and lower face to create a “lifted” and refreshed look. Results are gradual and can last up to two years or more. Because the change is subtle and long-term, it’s best for someone who wants improvement without looking like they suddenly had something done.
Semi-Permanent Fillers
Brand you may know: Bellafill
Bellafill is a long-lasting filler that uses small microscopic beads to provide structure under the skin. It can last five years or more. It is commonly used for deep folds and acne scars. Because this filler lasts so long, it is critical that it is placed by a highly experienced provider and that the patient is a good candidate.
Fat Transfer Fillers
In some cases, fat from another part of the body can be injected into the face. This is considered a more permanent option, since the fat becomes part of the body’s own tissue. Fat transfer is often used for significant volume loss in the cheeks, temples, or under the eyes. Results can be natural and long-lasting, but the procedure is more invasive than traditional fillers.
How Long Do Fillers Last?
This depends on the product, the area treated, and individual metabolism.
On average:
Hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane last six months to one year.
Radiesse often lasts a year or more.
Sculptra can last two years or more.
Bellafill can last five years or more.
Fat transfer can be long-lasting or permanent.
Many clients return for maintenance treatments once or twice per year to keep results consistent with natural aging.
Choosing the Right Filler
Choosing the right types of dermal fillers for the face is not about picking your favorite brand name. It’s about your goals, anatomy, and what will look the most natural on your face.
During a consultation, a provider at NHLMA will help you determine:
Which areas would benefit most from filler
Whether you want instant results or slow, gradual improvement
How long you want results to last
Whether you prefer reversible or longer-lasting treatments
How much volume loss or structural change you are looking to correct
Our approach focuses on balanced, natural-looking outcomes that fit your facial structure, not making you look like someone else.
What to Expect After Treatment
Most filler appointments take less than an hour. You may experience some swelling, redness, or minor bruising, especially in sensitive areas like the lips. These effects usually fade within a few days. Results with most products are visible right away, and skin continues to settle into its final look over one to two weeks.
The NHLMA Skincare Approach
At NHLMA, we specialize in Scottsdale skincare that has natural-looking aesthetic outcomes that enhance your features without changing your identity. We use high-quality fillers like Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, and Sculptra, and we customize every treatment to your face, goals, and comfort level.
We don’t believe in “one-size-fits-all” cosmetic work, and we never push treatments you don’t need. Our goal is subtle, elegant improvement that makes you feel more confident and refreshed.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you're curious about fillers for the first time, or you’re thinking about upgrading your current treatment plan, we’d love to help you make an informed and confident decision.
Reach out to schedule a free skin consultation in Scottsdale, Arizona and learn which filler options fit your unique needs.