Dermal fillers have become increasingly popular in recent years as a cosmetic treatment to enhance lip volume and shape, and smooth out lines and wrinkles. Although highly effective, it’s essential to consider the risks and benefits before undergoing treatment. In this article, we look at the dangers of DIY dermal fillers, and why professional treatment is a much safer option.
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At a glance
- DIY and unregulated fillers carry serious risks, including infection, allergic reaction and even vision loss.
- Professional injectors are trained in facial anatomy and safe injection technique – something DIY and unregulated providers often lack.
- Only products approved by the MHRA should be used; DIY fillers are often bought online with no such guarantee.
- Follow-up care is a key part of filler treatment, so any problems can be caught and addressed early.
- A licensed, experienced injector can also recommend the right filler and amount for your individual needs.
Lack Of Training And Experience
One of the biggest dangers of DIY dermal fillers is the lack of training and experience among those who attempt it. Professional injectors receive extensive training in facial anatomy and proper injection technique for different areas, and have experience working with a wide range of fillers to recommend the best type for each patient’s needs. DIY injectors, by contrast, may not have this training, which increases the risk of serious complications – so it’s essential to seek out a licensed, experienced injector with a proven track record of safe, effective treatment.
Unsafe Products And Techniques
Another danger of DIY dermal fillers is the use of unsafe products and techniques. Those attempting DIY fillers may purchase products online that aren’t approved by regulatory agencies, or use unsterilised equipment, and may not follow proper injection technique – all of which can lead to infections, allergic reactions, and even blindness. Professional fillers, by contrast, only use products approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), and follow strict safety protocols throughout.
Not all fillers are created equal, either – there’s a wide variety on the market, each with its own properties and applications. A licensed, experienced injector can recommend the best filler for your individual needs, using only high-quality, approved products.
Lack Of Follow-Up Care
Finally, those who attempt DIY dermal fillers may not have access to essential follow-up care after treatment. If complications arise, they may not know how to address them, or have access to medical care to do so. Professional fillers, on the other hand, come with a team of medical professionals who can provide follow-up care and address any concerns that arise – your injector should schedule a follow-up appointment to make sure you’re healing correctly and address anything that comes up.
Choose Wisely
While DIY dermal fillers may seem like a tempting option, they can lead to serious complications, from infections and allergic reactions through to blindness, due to a lack of training, unsafe products and techniques, and no access to follow-up care. It’s crucial to carefully weigh up the risks and benefits of any cosmetic treatment, and to seek out a licensed, experienced injector with access to safe products and techniques, rather than attempting a DIY option.
There’s also no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to cosmetic treatments – dermal fillers can be an excellent option for some people but not others, so it’s worth consulting a licensed professional to work out the right treatment for your individual needs. At Smile More Solihull, our highly skilled team have over 20 years of experience providing facial rejuvenation. Get in touch today to book your treatment in our comfortable, modern and friendly practice.
See the full dermal fillers treatment page for what to expect, aftercare and results.
Dermal fillers
