We wouldn’t go so far as to say that beauty is wasted on the young. We will say, though, that we often hear from our patients how they wish they had known how to care for their skin before the signs of aging appeared. Understandably, the development of lines and folds can be distressing. We like the idea of keeping our skin plump, firm, and smooth for as long as possible. This is nothing new. What is new, however, is our ability to support these characteristics using nonsurgical modalities.
Juvéderm represents a huge step forward in the area of aesthetic medicine. This family of products revolves around the fact that we lose hyaluronic acid (as well as collagen and elastin) as we age. Hyaluronic acid is one of the vital chemicals to youthful skin but one we don’t often talk about. It is responsible for giving skin plumpness and volume. It does so by magnetizing water molecules, by trapping them in tissues where they are needed. What Juvéderm products do is insert hyaluronic acid particles in areas where volume and structure have been lost.
Why So Many?
There are several Juvéderm products to choose from. Here, we demonstrate why by outlining those that are commonly used.
JUVÉDERM ULTRA XC AND ULTRA PLUS XC
Juvéderm ULTRA XC and ULTRA PLUS XC are two of the earlier formulations that are still in use today. Each is developed with a particular size of hyaluronic acid particles. By varying particle sizes, these products can achieve specific goals. ULTRA fillers are commonly used to smooth moderate to severe nasolabial folds and marionette lines around the nose and mouth and the mouth and chin, respectively. They can also be used to add fullness to the body of the lips.
JUVÉDERM VOLBELLA XC
Volbella XC is also made for lip augmentation. This filler is slightly different than ULTRA and ULTRA PLUS products in that it is made using advanced Vycross technology. This controls the molecular weight of hyaluronic acid particles in the gel base to give it more “give” and softness. Volbella is the thinnest of all Juvéderm fillers made with Vycross technology. It is ideal for subtly augmenting the lips and for filling the ultra-fine lines that form around the mouth. Volbella may be ideal for the person who wants more definition without obvious volume increase.
JUVÉDERM VOLUMA XC
Voluma XC is a structural filler. It is made with denser hyaluronic acid chains in a thick gel base. The consistency of Voluma is specific, allowing the filler to be inserted deeper beneath the skin’s surface. The depth of insertion recreates a structural foundation for the midface, where volume loss causes the cheeks to flatten and fall. Voluma’s focus on the midface can improve the undereye area, disguising puffiness, as well as the low face, minimizing the appearance of jowls.
JUVÉDERM VOLLURE XC
Vollure XC is sometimes interchangeable with ULTRA XC and ULTRA PLUS XC. Like those fillers, it is used to smooth nasolabial folds and marionette lines. The difference between Vollure XC and ULTRA products is that it is made with Vycross technology. This makes it more malleable, longer-lasting, and more comfortable thanks to the inclusion of lidocaine.
We can help you find the perfect filler for your needs. Call 559-435-SKIN (7546) to schedule a visit to our Fresno office.
