Dermal fillers are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments thanks to their impressive lifting and volumizing properties. After years of helping patients delay the unflattering effects of gravity’s pull and collagen loss with fillers, cosmetic professionals have made another advancement in this injectable, anti-aging procedure. They discovered hybrid fillers.
This article explains what hybrid fillers are, how they differ from traditional fillers, and what benefits to expect from the treatment.
What Are Hybrid Fillers?
Hybrid fillers are dermal fillers consisting of multiple formulations combined in a single injectable. They integrate the advantages of different fillers, such as hyaluronic acid (HA) and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHa), to deliver results superior to those of each individual filler. The outcome is smoother, lifted, firmer, and rejuvenated skin.
Hybrid vs. Traditional Fillers
Traditional fillers are typically based on hyaluronic acid as the primary ingredient. HA has a tremendous water-binding capacity, and when injected into sagging, hollow, and wrinkled skin, it instantly plumps, smooths, and regenerates the area. Traditional fillers provide temporary results that usually last 6-12 months.
Hybrid fillers contain hyaluronic acid as one of the ingredients in the formulation. It is typically paired with a collagen-renewing stimulant, such as calcium hydroxylapatite or poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). The interplay of HA and collagen stimulators enables immediate volume and long-term skin tightening.
| Hybrid Fillers | Traditional Fillers | |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | An injectable treatment formulated with different dermal filler types. | An injectable treatment formulated with single filler type, typically HA. |
| Primary ingredients | A selection of HA and collagen stimulators (e.g., CaHa or PLLA). | Hyaluronic acid |
| Results | Immediate volume and long-term skin tightening through collagen stimulation. | Immediate volume |
| Duration | Up to two years | 6-12 months |
Hybrid Fillers vs. Skin Boosters vs. Biostimulators
Skin boosters are injectable treatments designed to deeply hydrate and revitalize the skin with substances, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamins, ceramides, and antioxidants. The formulation is thinner than fillers. It doesn’t volumize the skin but gives it a natural glow and improves skin quality.
Biostimulators are semi-permanent fillers formulated with collagen stimulants, such as calcium hydroxylapatite and poly-L-lactic acid. They stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen and elastin, gradually lifting and tightening the skin. The effects last longer than those of traditional HA fillers.
| Hybrid Fillers | Skin Boosters | Biostimulators | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What is it? | An injectable treatment formulated with different dermal filler types. | An injectable treatment for deep hydration. | An injectable treatment formulated with a collagen stimulant. |
| Primary ingredients | A selection of HA and collagen stimulators (e.g., CaHa or PLLA). | HA, vitamins, amino acids, peptides, ceramides, antioxidants. | CaHa, PLLA, PMMA (polymethyl-methacrylate), etc. |
| Results | Immediate volume and long-term skin tightening through collagen stimulation. | Improved hydration and skin quality. | Gradual and long-term skin tightening through collagen stimulation. |
| Duration | Up to two years | 6-12 months | Up to two years |
Hybrid Filler Treatment Areas
Hybrid fillers address loss of elasticity and volume in the following areas:
- Temples
- Lower eyelids
- Midface and cheeks
- Around the nose
- Nasolabial folds
- Marionette lines
- Jawline
- Chin
- Neck
- Decollete
- Hands
- Upper arms
Benefits of Hybrid Fillers
The innovative hybrid filler technology delivers more effective results than single-filler formulations and offers the following benefits.
- Increased collagen and elastin production – Biostimulators in the filler trigger the body’s natural wound-healing response, which activates fibroblasts to produce new collagen and elastin.
- Increased volume – Hyaluronic acid attracts and binds water molecules, plumping up the injected area. The result is a more volumized, supple-looking skin.
- Improved hydration – Hyaluronic acid improves hydration and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Improved skin elasticity – The regeneration of structural skin proteins improves skin elasticity, making it more flexible and youthful.
- Decreased wrinkles – More collagen and elastin, increased volume, and improved skin elasticity decrease the appearance of skin creasing and wrinkles.
- Tighter, firmer skin – Collagen stimulation leads to tighter, firmer skin over time.
- Natural results – The gradual improvement in skin hydration, firmness, and elasticity without altering facial features provides a natural look.
Hybrid Filler Procedure
A consultation with a medical provider is the first step in the hybrid filler procedure. The provider evaluates the patient’s skin condition, medical history, and aesthetic goals and proceeds with the treatment if there are no contraindications.
The provider can use a preformulated hybrid filler, such as Allergan’s HArmonyCA®, or prepare their own hybrid formulation by mixing a hyaluronic acid filler and a biostimulant (e.g., Sculptra). They clean the patient’s skin, apply a topical anesthetic, and inject the filler into the target area. Some fillers contain lidocaine, which further decreases discomfort.
The procedure is quick, usually up to 45 minutes. Hyaluronic acid provides an immediate lift, while the skin remodeling, tightening, and contouring takes place over the next 2-3 months.
There is minimal downtime and the patient can resume most of their usual activities after the treatment.
Hybrid Filler Aftercare and Recovery
A hybrid filler procedure is minimally invasive and doesn’t require downtime. The recovery is relatively quick. The common side effects typically go away in one or two weeks, if the patient follows their medical provider’s aftercare tips:
- Avoid exposure to heat, including saunas and tanning beds.
- Don’t exercise for 24-48 hours.
- Use an ice pack on the treated area if you experience swelling and pain.
- Don’t bend or lie down for the first four hours.
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours.
- Don’t apply makeup for 24 hours.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Don’t have any other cosmetic or injectable treatments for a few weeks.
- Don’t rub, scratch, massage, or apply pressure on the treated area.
- Wear sunscreen when you go outside.
Hybrid Filler Results
Hybrid fillers provide immediate and lasting results, thanks to the combination of instantly volumizing and long-term, collagen-building ingredients.
Patients report plumper, smoother, hydrated, and glowing skin directly after the treatment. Within three months, they notice tighter skin, decreased skin laxity, fewer wrinkles, and a significantly rejuvenated appearance.
Hybrid Filler Risks and Side Effects
According to medical reviews, the safety profile of hybrid filler is very good. A small percentage of patients may experience mild, localized side effects, such as the following:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Redness
- Pain
- Slight bleeding
- Increased sensitivity
- Nodules and non-inflammatory lumps
Side effects usually resolve 3-10 days after injection. No serious side effects were reported.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Hybrid Fillers?
Hybrid fillers are ideal for healthy individuals who want to reduce visible signs of aging, including skin laxity, volume loss in the lower face, and wrinkles. Candidates are usually in their late 30s, 40s, and older, and have realistic expectations, aiming for more hydrated, lifted skin and progressive improvement in overall skin quality.
Who Should Avoid Hybrid Fillers?
Hybrid fillers are not suitable for everyone. Patients with the following conditions should seek alternative treatments to avoid the risk of complications.
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Allergies to filler ingredients
- Active infections
- Bleeding disorders
- Autoimmune disorders
- History of keloid scarring
- Some types of cancer
Hybrid Filler Cost
The cost of a hybrid filler depends on many factors: the specific formulation/product, the amount of filler required for the treatment, the medical provider’s expertise, the med spa location, and more. Prices typically range from $500 to over $1000 per syringe.
Choosing a Hybrid Filler Injector
Choosing a skilled and experienced injector is crucial to ensuring your safety and desired cosmetic results. Look for a licensed medical professional with a proven track record of successful treatments.
Our medical professionals at Vibrant Skin Bar have years of experience injecting popular, FDA-approved fillers, including Juvéderm, Restylane, Sculptra, Radiesse, and Versa. Contact them to discuss your skin goals and the best treatments for achieving them.
Conclusion
Hybrid fillers create a synergistic effect of immediate volume restoration and gradual skin tightening. They deliver superior results compared to traditional and semi-permanent fillers, setting a new standard in modern aesthetic treatments.
