Dermal Fillers vs Anti-Wrinkle Injections

With the aesthetic medicine market still in its rapid growth phase, there seems to be much speculation regarding dermal fillers vs anti-wrinkle injections. This commonly surrounds their differences and which injectable is ‘the best’. Plus, with non-surgical rejuvenations on the rise, dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections account for the majority as two of the main drivers within the industry. 

Continue reading this blog to find out more about which of these two options is right for you when it comes to dermal fillers vs anti-wrinkle injections.

Dermal fillers

More often than not, patients are left questioning which treatment is best for them and their objectives. 

Whilst both treatments provide fantastic results when reviving the appearance and conserving youthful complexions, each has its own specialised characteristics to help create the desired result. 

Also, both practitioners and patients need to be aware of the main differences between the two treatments to avoid opting for the wrong one.

What are dermal fillers?

Amongst the most popular and sought-after treatments within the aesthetics market are dermal fillers. Developed to help restore facial volume loss, dermal fillers are designed to subtly increase plumpness and volume in the injected area. The viscous formulation of dermal fillers assists in lifting and enhancing areas of the face to help correct perceived flaws and the appearance of fine lines and folds for a more youthful appearance.  

Traditionally, most dermal fillers are developed with hyaluronic acid (HA), a sugar molecule that exists naturally in the body. As we age, we lose approximately 1% of our HA stores every year after the age of 30 – resulting in loss of facial volume and fine lines. However, dermal fillers like REVOLAX work to revitalise and add volume to the skin to diminish the appearance of fine lines, helping to restore fullness in the face.  

In essence, dermal fillers are used to ‘fill’ the injected area – whether that be to diminish the appearance of folds or to fill the area to enhance the appearance.

What are anti-wrinkle injections?

Anti-wrinkle injections are another popular treatment amongst aesthetic patients in this sector, accounting for the largest market share within the industry. In addition, the anti-ageing market is expected to grow to $65.96 billion in 2026 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2%. But what are they and why are they so popular? Also, why are they associated with the dermal fillers vs anti-wrinkle injections discussion?

Anti-ageing injections are most frequently used to help treat signs of ageing, particularly lines that have formed because of facial movement, including frown lines. 

Upon injection, anti-wrinkle injections temporarily block the chemical signal sent from the brain that works to contract the muscle of a specific area. By temporarily paralysing the facial muscles, this reduces the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles – made possible by blocking the action of acetylcholine.

Anti-wrinkle injections are made of a natural, purified protein which relaxes wrinkle-causing muscles to create an improved cosmetic appearance. The active ingredient is a protein molecule extracted from the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum. 

Three subtly different forms of this protein are currently marketed for wrinkle reduction and depend on the brand of anti-wrinkle injection used.

How long do dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections last?

One of the most frequently asked questions regarding the two treatments is how long they both last. It is important to note that both injectables are temporary, unlike invasive surgery options that aim to fix similar perceived flaws.

Anti-wrinkle injections are not permanent. The effects of this treatment will eventually wear off and allow the injected muscle to contract again. With many factors to consider – including the patient, the brand of anti-wrinkle used and the area of injection – patients can expect to see results for up to six months. However, regular top-up treatments with anti-wrinkle injections can often affect how long the results may last.

It is important to note that the effects of anti-wrinkle injections are not visible straight away. Once injected, it takes time to start working and relax the muscles. Results can vary from person to person, though the effects of anti-wrinkle injections will usually start to take effect after 3-5 days.  

Similarly to anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers are also not permanent and will eventually dissolve naturally over time. The longevity of dermal fillers also depends on various factors, such as the dermal filler range used, patients’ skin type, injection area, injection protocol and other elements. 

However, the general effects of dermal fillers can last up to 12 months. As a result, they are the longer lasting medicine in the dermal fillers vs anti-wrinkle injections debate.

Most patients report seeing results immediately. However, swelling and bruising may occur post-injection and patients should expect to see fully rested results within 48 hours.

Where are they injected?

Another key difference patients are eager to know about when it comes to anti-wrinkle injections vs dermal fillers is their treatment areas. 

As anti-wrinkle injections are generally directed at treating ‘overly-expressive’ areas (such as frown lines, forehead wrinkles and crow’s feet), these injectables tend to focus on the upper portions of the face.

Alternatively, dermal fillers are more versatile and can be used in multiple areas across the face. They can help to restore lost volume and to enhance the features, including the lips, cheeks, chin, jaw, and nose. 

The conclusion on dermal fillers vs anti-wrinkle injections

With all the above to take into consideration – it is vital that patients and practitioners consider the specific goals of the patient and their concerns. As both injectables work differently and on different areas of the face, it is important to refine the end goal and to decide with the help of a trained professional which injectable is most suited.  

So, whether you want to enhance and restore lost volume with dermal fillers or smooth out and reduce the appearance of fine lines and folds with anti-wrinkle injections, a consultation with a knowledgeable practitioner may be required to help determine your suitability for the treatment.

Anti-ageing treatments at Fox Pharma

We hope this dermal fillers vs anti-wrinkle injections article has given you enough information to select the right treatment for you.

Shop skin boosters, dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections directly from Fox Pharma – your trusted and credible online aesthetics pharmacy. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today.