Redness and beard hair loss from HA fillers along jawline about 10 months ago (Photo)

Question

About 10 months ago I got about a syringe of hyaluronic acid filler injected along my right and left jawline areas. Anyways, i like the look of the result, however in the past 4 or 5 months i have noticed the area in which the procedure was done has become red (not swollen and not painful at all) and my beard no longer grows very well at all in that area. This results in patchy looking facial hair in that area, and alot of redness that stands out from the rest of my skin. I am worried

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

It sounds like you are experiencing some delayed side effects from your hyaluronic acid (HA) filler injections. Redness and hair loss in the area of injection are not commonly reported long-term side effects, but they can occur. Here are some steps you should consider:

1. **Consult with the Injector or Dermatologist**: It is important to go back to the professional who performed the injections or consult with a dermatologist. They can assess whether there is an ongoing inflammatory reaction or other issues related to the filler.

2. **Evaluate for Infection or Granuloma Formation**: Although not painful or swollen, the redness could indicate a low-grade infection or granuloma formation (a type of inflammatory reaction to the filler). The dermatologist might recommend imaging studies or a biopsy to rule these out.

3. **Consider Allergic or Hypersensitivity Reaction**: An allergic or hypersensitivity reaction to the filler material could also cause redness and inflammation, affecting hair growth. Your dermatologist can perform tests to determine if this is the case.

4. **Hair Loss Evaluation**: The interruption of hair growth could be due to local inflammation or pressure effects from the filler. A dermatologist can assess the hair follicles and determine if they are permanently damaged or if there is potential for regrowth.

5. **Treatment Options**:
    - **Topical or Oral Medications**: If an inflammatory response is suspected, topical or oral corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed.
    - **Hyaluronidase Injections**: If the filler is contributing to the problem, hyaluronidase can be used to dissolve the HA filler.
    - **Laser Therapy**: For persistent redness, vascular lasers or intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments might be considered.
    - **Hair Regrowth Treatments**: If hair follicles are still viable, treatments like minoxidil or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy might help stimulate hair growth.

6. **Patch Testing**: If an allergic reaction is suspected, patch testing can help identify the specific allergen.

7. **Follow-Up**: Regular follow-up appointments with your dermatologist are crucial to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as necessary.

While your symptoms are concerning, there are several potential causes and treatments available. Seeking evaluation and advice from a dermatologist or the professional who performed the injections is the best course of action. They can provide a tailored approach to address both the redness and the hair loss.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to return to your injector for an evaluation.  It may be that you are experiencing a delayed reaction, which is uncommon but not impossible.

Adnan Fuat Buyuklu, MD · Answer

Hair follicles may be damaged while advancing the cannula during injection. A late allergic reaction may also occur. It would be better to contact your doctor.

Redness and beard hair loss from HA fillers along jawline about 10 months ago (Photo)

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Redness and beard hair loss from HA fillers along jawline about 10 months ago (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.