When you look in the mirror, do you notice fine lines and wrinkles on your face? Have you ever felt like the wrinkles that appear when you smile or squint are now on your face? This is actually a problem that many people have. It is normal for the skin to change with age. So today, let's talk about collagen and other cosmetic fillers that are used as a solution to these skin wrinkles. Today, we will simply talk about what these are, how they work, and whether they are safe.
Why do our skin get wrinkles? Let's first understand that.
Before we talk about these fillers, let's understand a little about our skin. Then this story will be clearer to you.
Our skin has three main layers.
1. Epidermis: This is the outermost layer of skin that we can see. Its main function is to control the evaporation of water from the body. Without this layer, our body would quickly become dehydrated.
2. Dermis: This is the layer beneath the top layer. Although it contains blood vessels, nerves, and hair follicles, this layer is mostly made up of a protein called collagen . It's like the steel framework used to build a house. This collagen framework is what gives our skin its strength, firmness, and shape.
3. Hypodermis: This layer, located at the bottom, contains fat and connective tissue. It also contains sweat glands and large blood vessels. Its job is to maintain body temperature and protect internal organs.
So, when we are young, the collagen framework in our skin is very strong. That's why the skin retains moisture well and is elastic. No matter how much we smile or frown, wrinkles form at that time and then return to normal.
But as we age, and as we are exposed to the sun, and as we do things like smoking, this collagen framework gradually weakens. Then the skin loses its elasticity and starts to sag. So every time we smile or frown, this weakened collagen framework is put under pressure, and we gradually start to see permanent wrinkles.
Simply put, wrinkles occur because the skin's natural protein called collagen, which gives skin its strength, decreases with age, weakening the skin's structure.
So how do these collagen and filler injections work?
It's very simple. What these injections do is replace the natural collagen that has been lost in our skin, filling in those gaps. Just like filling a pothole in a road with asphalt, these fillers fill in the wrinkles and sunken areas of the skin , giving the skin a smooth, plump look again.
Collagen is one of the most popular fillers, but it is actually less commonly used now because some people can be allergic to it. That's why there are now many safer, more advanced fillers.
What are the most commonly used fillers?
In addition to collagen, there are several other types of fillers that your doctor may recommend. Let's take a look at the main types.
| Filler Type | How it works and description |
|---|---|
| Hyaluronic Acid (e.g. Juvéderm, Restylane) | This is the most popular and widely used type of filler in the world today. It is a substance that is naturally produced in our bodies. It is what gives the skin its fullness. When it is injected, it attracts water to the area and gives the skin a nice plump look. The results are temporary. |
| Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Ex: Radiesse) | This is also a filler that comes in a gel form. In addition to filling in wrinkles, it also stimulates our body's own collagen production. Therefore, the results last a little longer. |
| Fat from your own body | Fat taken from your own abdomen or thighs can be purified and injected into areas with wrinkles. There is no risk of allergy because it is from your own body. The results are usually long-lasting. |
| Poly-L-Lactic Acid (e.g. Sculptra) | This is a synthetic material. It is also used in dissolvable sutures. Rather than directly filling wrinkles, it stimulates the body's own collagen production. The results may take a while to come, but they are long-lasting. |
| Botulinum Toxin (e.g. Botox, Dysport) | Important: This is not actually a filler. It temporarily deactivates the muscles that cause wrinkles. It is often used to treat forehead wrinkles, crow's feet, and wrinkles between the eyes. |
What should I expect before and after this treatment?
If you are considering this type of treatment, you should definitely see a qualified, experienced doctor and talk about it.
1. Medical consultation: First, the doctor will ask about your medical history and examine the areas you need treatment for. You should definitely tell him about your medical conditions and the medications you are taking.
2. Allergy Test: If using an older type of collagen, a small patch test is done about a month before treatment to see if there is an allergic reaction. However, this is not necessary for most newer fillers.
3. Treatment: A local anesthetic may be applied or injected to numb the area being treated. The doctor will then carefully inject the filler into the skin.
4. After treatment: The treated area may be slightly red, swollen, and may appear like a small bruise. These usually disappear within a few days.
The most important thing is to have realistic expectations. Don't expect every single wrinkle on your face to disappear in one treatment. Talk to your doctor and get a clear idea of what kind of results you can expect.
How long do these results last?
This will vary depending on the type of filler you use. Like natural collagen, these fillers are absorbed by the body over time.
- Hyaluronic acid fillers usually last about 6 months to a year and a half .
- Fillers like Radiesse last for a year or more .
- Like Sculptra , they can last up to two years .
- If you inject your own fat , it will last for several years .
This means that to maintain the results, you will need to have repeat treatments from time to time . So, be sure to discuss the cost with your doctor and get a clear understanding. Since these are cosmetic treatments, they are not usually covered by health insurance.
Can't this be done with creams containing collagen?
This is a question that many people ask. There are many expensive creams on the market that claim to "contain collagen."
The truth is, the collagen molecules in a cream cannot penetrate deep into our skin and build that collagen framework. Those molecules are too large in size. What these creams mainly do is moisturize the top layer of the skin and control skin dryness. Although they give the skin a temporary smoothness and elasticity, they cannot eliminate wrinkles. To eliminate wrinkles, you need to affect the dermis layer under the skin. Only injections like fillers can do that.
Take-Home Message
- Collagen and fillers are cosmetic treatments used to fill in wrinkles and sunken areas of the skin. They are not medical needs.
- Before undergoing any such treatment, it is essential to consult a qualified and experienced doctor . Getting these done at beauty salons or by unqualified people can lead to serious infections and complications.
- There are many types of fillers. Talk openly with your doctor about which type is best for your skin and needs, how much it costs, and how long the results last.
- The results of these treatments are temporary . To maintain the results, repeated treatments are required.
- Keep your expectations realistic. Understand that one treatment may not completely eliminate all wrinkles.
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