Classic Fillers Vs Biostimulators—Which Should I Get?
If you’re new to the world of fillers, deciding on which one is the best fit for your needs can be overwhelming. Luckily, there are plenty of board-certified doctors ready to help educate you and find the one that’s right for you. “Choosing between a hyaluronic acid filler and biostimulator requires a thorough evaluation and individualized long-term plan by a board-certified dermatologist who is proficient in injectables,” says Washington, D.C. dermatologist Nina Hartman, MD. She notes that both carry their own risks and benefits.
To help give you a general understanding, we asked our experts to share insight into the biggest differences between hyaluronic acid fillers and biostimulators and the reasons why someone would choose one over the other or even opt for both. It comes down to a few key differences, including how long they last, how fast they work, what areas they’re best for, and what look you’re going for.
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What are the differences between biostimulators and classic fillers?
“The key difference between biostimulators and dermal fillers lies in how they achieve volume restoration and skin rejuvenation,” says Southlake, TX and Monroe, LA dermatologist Janine Hopkins, MD. “Fillers—like hyaluronic acid-based products—instantly add volume by physically filling areas under the skin, making them ideal for smoothing wrinkles and enhancing facial contours.”
Meanwhile, biostimulators, like Sculptra, “stimulate the body’s natural collagen production over time, improving skin thickness, elasticity and structure. The results develop gradually and are longer-lasting, often up to two years or more.” Then there is a hybrid like Radiesse, which offers immediate results as well as biostimulation, says Dr. Hopkins.
It’s important to note that while classic hyaluronic acid fillers have the ability to be dissolved, biostummulators do not, says Washington, D.C. dermatologist Tina Alster, MD.
Classic fillers 101
Classic fillers like Juvederm and Restylane, made of hyaluronic acid, are injected into skin to produce immediate volume, explains. Alster. While the results appear faster, they are shown to disappear faster than biostimulators—between six to 18 months, she says.
Biostimulators 101
Biostimulators are different in that they’re composed of materials that are meant to stimulate the body to produce new collagen on its own, says Dr. Alster. “This leads to improvement in both volume and skin quality. A series of treatments is typically recommended (eg. three treatments every month). It takes three plus months to appreciate the final clinical results, but” they will last longer.
While fillers with hyaluronic acid provide “instant gratification” by physically filling in areas of lost volume, biostimulatory fillers such as poly-l lactic acid provide “delayed gratification” by stimulating collagen and producing volume over time, explains Houston, TX dermatologist Jennifer Segal, MD.
When to choose a classic hyaluronic acid filler
One of the main reasons to opt for a hyaluronic acid filler is for more immediate volume enhancement. It’s also often the choice for smaller areas, like the lips and under eyes, notes Dr. Segal. “I typically recommend fillers when a patient wants immediate results—such as plumper lips, enhanced cheekbones, or softened nasolabial folds. They’re perfect for patients preparing for events or seeking quick facial balancing,” says Dr. Hopkins.
A hyaluronic filler is also a good option for beginners as it is shorter-lasting and can be dissolved in the event you don’t like it. “In patients who are new to fillers, I prefer to use the hyaluronic acid fillers that can be dissolved if needed,” says Dr. Segal, who notes patients find the reversibility reassuring. She also opts for hyaluronic fillers in higher-risk injection areas due to the ability to reverse it as an important feature for patient safety.
When to choose a biostimulatory filler
If you’re seeking subtle volume and skin quality improvement, a biostimulator may be your best bet. “They’re especially popular among patients who prefer a gradual, natural-looking transformation,” says Dr. Hopkins.
Dr. Segal tends to wait to use biostimulators until patients are comfortable with fillers. She adds that it can be more cost-effective when filling larger areas like the temples. Dr. Hartman adds that they’re a great option for the body. “They work wonderfully on the body to improve skin quality and laxity in areas such as the neck, chest, arms, buttocks and legs.” Dr. Hopkins adds that they’re specifically great for treating volume loss in the temples, mid-face, jawline and buttocks.
A case for a combination
Why choose between the two when your doctor can make a tailored plan with both as needed? “In many cases, I use a combination approach—what I call strategic layering—to achieve both immediate enhancement and long-term collagen remodeling for optimal, youthful outcomes,” says Dr. Hopkins. Dr. Hartman agrees, noting that “in practice, these fillers are used synergistically for the most harmonious and natural result.”
