Understanding Dermal Fillers: Types, Safety, and How They Work

Metro Bangkok Clinic
Jun 13
3 min read

Dermal fillers have become one of the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatments worldwide, helping to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. But not all fillers are the same. To make informed choices, it’s essential to understand the different types of fillers, their longevity, and how they are classified by health authorities like the USFDA and Thai FDA.

Types of Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers can be broadly categorized into three types based on how long they last in the body:

1. Temporary Fillers (Lasting 6–24 months)

These are the most commonly used fillers and are generally considered the safest, as the body gradually breaks them down. Most temporary fillers are based on hyaluronic acid (HA) — a substance naturally found in our skin. They provide immediate volume and hydration, with results that are reversible via hyaluronidase injection — making them the safest and most popular option worldwide.

Examples:

Thai FDA–Approved Temporary HA Fillers:
- Juvederm® (Allergan, USA) (USFDA & Thai FDA approved)
- Restylane® (Galderma, Sweden) (USFDA & Thai FDA approved)
- Belotero® (Merz, Germany)
- E.P.T.Q.® (South Korea)
- Perfectha® (France)
- Yvoire® (LG Chem, Korea)
- Revanesse® (Canada)
- Neuramis® (South Korea)
- Hyabell® (Germany)
- Definisse® (Italy)
- Neobelle® (South Korea)
- Flore® (South Korea)
- Biohyalux® (China)
- Art® (Korea)
- Teoxane® (Switzerland)
- Neauvia® (Switzerland/Poland)
- Hyafilia® (South Korea)
- Revolax® (South Korea)
- Variofill® (Germany)
- Volifil® (South Korea)

2. Semi-Permanent Fillers (Lasting 1–2 years)

These fillers last longer and stimulate collagen production to some extent. While not considered permanent, they do stay in the body longer than HA fillers.

Examples:

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) – e.g., Radiesse® (USFDA approved, available in Thailand)
Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA) – e.g., Sculptra® (USFDA & Thai FDA approved)

These are also known as biostimulators, as they work by stimulating the body to produce its own collagen over time. (For Biostimulators we will talk more about it for next topic)

3. Permanent Fillers (Lasting 5+ years or indefinitely)

Permanent fillers are rarely used today due to higher risks of complications, such as granulomas or migration.

Examples:

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) – e.g., Artefill® / Bellafill® (USFDA approved)
Silicone oil (Not approved for facial aesthetic use by USFDA or Thai FDA)

Biostimulators: A Different Category of Fillers

Biostimulators are unique because they don’t just “fill” — they encourage your body to rejuvenate itself. Sculptra® (PLLA) and Radiesse® (CaHA) fall under this category. While results take longer to appear compared to HA fillers, the effects can be more natural and longer-lasting.

Regulatory Oversight (USFDA & Thai FDA)

It is important to choose dermal fillers that are:

USFDA-approved for safety and efficacy
Thai FDA-approved for legal use in Thailand

At Metro Bangkok Clinic, we use only globally recognized and locally approved products, ensuring both safety and optimal results for every patient.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking for instant volume or long-term collagen stimulation, dermal fillers offer diverse options. But results and safety depend not only on the product — but also on the expertise of the injector. Always consult with a certified professional to choose what suits your needs best.

At Metro Bangkok Clinic, our mission is to enhance your natural beauty — safely, precisely, and beautifully.