Injectable Fillers vs. Topical Filler Serums: Which Option Is Best for You?

They say things get better with age, but the fullness and elasticity of your skin aren’t one of them. Historically, if you wanted to reverse the clock and regain a fuller face, it involved going under the needle, however thanks to modern technology and top-tier product formulators (thank you Dr. Gross), there’s a new topical option in town that promises to rival professional results. So, before you book your next injectables appointment, make sure to read the blog below for the full scoop on injectable filler versus topical filler serums. Restoring your plump, youthful complexion may be easier than you think!

What are dermal filler injections and how does they work? 

Dermal filler injections are a type of nonsurgical cosmetic procedure where a healthcare provider injecting a soft, gel substance beneath the skin to instantly restore lost volume, smooth static lines, and lift sagging skin. Dermal fillers come in a variety of different forms and can be made of either naturally occurring substances or synthetic materials that the body eventually breaks down and absorbs. The most commonly used dermal fillers are composed of hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), poly-L-lactic acid, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and or autologous fat injections. 

What are topical filler serums and how do they work? 

Just like it sounds, topical filler serums are applied directly to the skin to plump, fill, and firm, mimicking the effects of injectable filler, minus the needle. Think of it like a derm visit in a bottle. These needle-free alternatives deliver clinical-level results thanks to their synergistic ingredient combinations and advanced delivery systems that allow the ingredients to reach new depths of the skin. 

Our new DermInfusions Fill + Repair Serum, for example, features four different weights of hyaluronic acid (HA) molecules, which penetrate separate layers of the skin to provide multi-dimensional plumping and hydration. The powerful formula also features a blend of collagen-building peptides and protective antioxidants that work to repair and reinforce the moisture barrier for a smoother, more youthful complexion instantly and over time. 

Instead of delivering the ingredients via needles, the serum uses a MicroCelle delivery system that uses micelles (AKA teeny, tiny microscopic molecules) to carry and infuse the filling and plumping ingredients deep within the skin. As a result, you will see visible and more dramatic improvements a lot faster than you would with your average topical skincare product. 

What are the pros & cons of each option? 

Injectable Dermal Filler 

Pros: 

• Immediate & long-lasting results: One of the biggest pros of injectable filler is there’s no wait or downtime when it comes to results. As soon as the needle hits your skin, you can witness the plumping in real-time, and will leave your appointment with visible results that can last anywhere from six months to a year. 
• Customizable treatment: If you go to a trusted medical professional (ideally a board-certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or trained medical injector), they will tailor your injections to best suit your face shape and overall goals. Injectable fillers aren’t just meant to refresh different areas of the face, but they can be used to treat aging hands, feet, décolletage, and acne scars.

Cons: 

• High cost: Fillers will cost you a pretty penny! Prices fluctuate based on location and provider, but the average cost of injectable fillers range from $600-900 per syringe. 
• Can be uncomfortable: Being poked by needles is uncomfortable? Go figure! Although this treatment is usually accompanied by an anesthetic, it can still cause some discomfort depending on your pain tolerance. Certain treatment areas are known to be more painful than others, such as the lips and nasolabial folds (sides of the nose), because there are more nerves in those areas.
• Potential for side effects: Although the risk of a severe reaction is small, most people will experience minor bruising and swelling for a few days after being injected. So don’t do fillers right before a big event. 

Topicals Filler Serums 

Pros: 

• Affordable cost: If the price of injectables will break the bank, opt for topical filler serum instead. Our DermInfusions Fill + Repair Serum is $75.
• Improves overall skin health immediately & overtime: When used daily, topical filler serums like the DermInfusions Fill + Repair Serum will immediately repair and strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier, which is the key for maintaining a healthy-looking, smooth, and youthful complexion. 

Cons: 

• Plumping and filling results are more gradual & subtle: Unfortunately, there is no one magic topical serum or cream that will restore volume and visibly plump as quickly as injectables will. However, with consistent daily use, topical filler serum will gradually plump and increase skin firmness over time. 

Who is a good candidate for injectable filler vs. a topical filler serum? 

Now we know the ins and outs of injectables versus topical filler serums, how do you determine which one is right for you? The good news is that everyone can benefit from a topical filler serum because it's a safe and effective way to plump, hydrate, and restore your skin barrier. It's also a great option for people who have already dabbled in injectables and are looking to prolong their results between touch-up appointments.

However, if you have moderate to severe folds, wrinkles, and or volume loss that you want to improve quickly, and the high cost isn't a barrier, then injectable filler may the path for you. Just make sure to consult a trusted healthcare provider (we can't say this enough!) to confirm that you're a candidate, as fillers may not be appropriate for people with certain bleeding disorders or allergies.

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