One of the most popular dermal fillers on the market since its approval by the FDA in 2006 is Juvederm, an injectable gel containing hyaluronic acid. Used by cosmetic surgeons and dermatologists to soften and reduce facial folds and wrinkles, Juvederm also enhances lips by plumping up thin lips and giving them a more attractive contour.
The manufacturers of Juvederm state that the gel’s “cross-linked” qualities make it an exceptionally successful anti-aging skin filler and wrinkle remover. Cross linking involves processing hyaluronic acid in way that chemically alters the binding ability of the molecular chains forming the acid. This procedure changes hyaluronic acid from a liquid into a gel-like substance that remains in facial tissues longer after it is injected. Without subjecting hyaluronic acid to this cross-linking, Juvederm’s effects would not last as long because the body would rapidly absorb the more aqueous hyaluronic acid.
How Juvederm Works
Molecules constituting hyaluronic acid act as powerful moisture attractors. In fact, HA can absorb and hold nearly 1500 times its own mass in water. This super-hydrating quality is what gives Juvederm its exceptional volumizing and hydrating properties that can readily eliminate sagging skin, wrinkles and nasolabial folds. In addition, hyaluronic acid also binds to collagen molecules, which enhances Juvederm’s ability to nourish dry, aging skin. Research into Juvederm and cross-linked HA has also found that it seems to prevent the breakdown of collagen that already exists in the skin.
What to Expect During a Juvederm Treatment Session
An injection of Juvederm usually takes less than 15 minutes. Patients do need to perform any special pre-procedural actions. You may be asked to avoid taking aspirin or ibuprofen prior to receiving the injection so that bleeding is not unnecessarily prolonged. Because the cross-linked hyaluronic acid in Juvederm is non-animal based, patients do not have to worry about suffering allergic reactions.
Although injections may cause some discomfort, most people do not require application of a topical anesthesia. However, patients requesting topical numbing creams will be given them as needed. Following the injection, patients should avoid engaging in rigorous exercise or exposing their skin to excessive heat and sunlight. Temporary swelling, redness and itching may be minimized by not consuming alcoholic beverages. Side effects are usually mild and vanish within several days of a treatment. Individuals who are prone to swelling may obtain relief by applying an ice pack to the injection site.
Juvederm provides immediate results to areas injected with the gel. The majority of patients require only one treatment session to achieve satisfactory results that often last more than nine months. Results can vary, however, depending on factors such as the patient’s age, severity of wrinkling and skin type. A Mayoral dermatologist can give you more in-depth information regarding whether Juvederm is the right kind of dermal filler to suit your skin’s needs.
