Can the dermal fillers get diminished at a high rate from one sun exposure?

Question

Can the sun's UV rays degrade the derma fillers injected in the face a long while ago? I went to the park on a hot day and spent three hours in the tree's shade. I applied SPF 50 cream, but I forgot to wear a hat. That night, I started to feel like my face was burning. I see the broken capillaries on my chin around the mouth and close to the nose. I don't know if I've been burned by UV rays, which may now affect the derma fillers. How bad can UV affect derma fillers?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From your description of wearing 50 SPF sunscreen and sitting in the shade, your filler treatment would not likely be impacted.  Fillers will slowly be metabolized over time.  Their longevity depends on the filler used.

Milan Shah, MD · Answer

Exposure to the sun can potentially impact dermal fillers, and it's generally advisable to take precautions to protect your skin from UV radiation after undergoing filler treatments. While sun exposure itself may not directly diminish the fillers, certain factors can come into play:1. Breakdown of Filler Material:• Prolonged or intense sun exposure can contribute to the breakdown of certain dermal filler materials. For example, hyaluronic acid fillers may degrade more quickly in the presence of significant UV radiation. This degradation could potentially affect the longevity of the filler.2. Inflammation and Swelling:• Sun exposure can cause inflammation and swelling in the treated area, which may impact the appearance of fillers. It's recommended to avoid excessive sun exposure, especially in the first few days or weeks after receiving dermal fillers, to allow for proper healing.3. Accelerated Aging:• UV radiation is a known contributor to skin aging. If the skin around the treated area ages more rapidly due to sun exposure, it can impact the overall appearance and effectiveness of dermal fillers.To help protect your skin and maintain the longevity of your dermal fillers, consider the following precautions:• Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to the treated area and the surrounding skin. Reapply as needed, especially if you are spending extended periods outdoors.• Wear Protective Clothing: Use hats, sunglasses, and clothing to shield the treated area from direct sunlight.• Avoid Tanning Beds: Exposure to artificial UV radiation from tanning beds can also have adverse effects on the skin and dermal fillers.It's crucial to follow the post-treatment care instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Additionally, consult with your healthcare provider about specific recommendations for sun protection based on the type of filler used and your individual skin characteristics.If you have concerns about the impact of sun exposure on your dermal fillers, discussing them with your healthcare provider can provide guidance based on your unique situation.

Darice W. Fadeyi, MD · Answer

You likely did sustain some mild sun damage as evidenced by slight redness and the appearance of broken capillaries on the face. But this is limited to the skin. Dermal fillers would not be affected by ultraviolet rays. Dissolution of hyaluronic acid requires the injection of an enzyme called hyaluronidase. So you can safely let go of this concern. As a matter of best practice, continue to wear your broad spectrum sun block and a hat with sun exposure. Thanks for your question!

Can the dermal fillers get diminished at a high rate from one sun exposure?

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Can the dermal fillers get diminished at a high rate from one sun exposure?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

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