The Strange History of Dermal Fillers

Surprisingly enough, the first instance of dermal fillers entering the market was the 1890s. It wasn’t long after the syringe was first invented where professionals began experimenting with the idea of facial fillers. Paraffin wax was the first injectable filling agent. However, paraffin wax was proven to be not an effective facial filler due to migration, embolization, and small masses under the skin. Once the mid 1900s came around, silicone injections were used to help achieve a smoother, more youthful appearance. Unfortunately, using silicone as filler was discontinued due to the fact that the type of silicone used also caused small masses under the skin. During the 1970s animal collagen was first experimented with and tested. Bovine collagen was the first agent and was approved by the FDA for cosmetic injection in 1981. Although Bovine collagen proved to be effective at first, a few drawbacks were discovered later down the line. Firstly, the results were not long lasting. Secondly, many patients experienced allergic reactions and swelling to the Bovine collagen. Once the 2000s rolled around, hyaluronic acid was starting to be preferred for cosmetic treatments since it is already considered a natural substance found in our bodies. The FDA would later also approve hyaluronic acid for mainstay dermal fillers. Hyaluronic acid also lasts much longer than bovine collagen and the substance is more tolerable. In present day, hyaluronic dermal fillers like Restalyne, Juvederm, and Sculptra are used for a variety of cosmetic purposes. There are a wide array of uses for dermal fillers. For instance, you can fill in deep lines and wrinkles around the nose, mouth and chin. You can also restore and enhance volume in the lips and cheeks. Furthermore, dermal fillers can be used to treat acne scars. Although fillers offer temporary results, they can now last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years depending on the formulation and are easily maintained.