What You Can Do To Ensure Your Filler Goes The Distance (Who Wants To Get Injected Twice A Month?)

So, you've just had your filler appointment, and the results are everything you dreamed they'd be. Next question: how can you ensure the next appointment is as far away as possible? 

One of the biggest selling points of filler over surgery is their temporary nature. However, there is such a thing as too temporary. After all, no one wants to spend every month (and considerable coin) heading right back into an injector's office for touch-ups! Luckily, as Dr. Wassim Taktouk told Harper's Bazaar back in 2020, filler has a pretty decent lifespan. "One thing I can safely say is that filler often lasts much longer than the 'official time' given," he explained. 

That said, there are a number of things that can contribute to its effects wearing off faster than they need to. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more movement means faster metabolizing — and, no matter how great the dedication to a perfect pout, a girl's gotta eat, talk, and drink. For that reason, there are times when fillers' longevity is just out of our control. That said, we aren't entirely powerless over how fast our filler will fade. In fact, with the right aftercare, it's possible to push that next appointment out a little further in your calendar. So, just what does the right post-injection procedure entail? 

We get it: your filler appointment perfectly coincided with your "Hot girl summer" plans. However, if you're hoping to maintain said filler for a few months, it's best to keep sun exposure to a minimum. While James Christian Cosmetics acknowledges that a few moments in the sun won't exactly contribute to a Wicked Witch of the West-esque, "I'm melting" moment, doing so too soon post-appointment will only lead to less impressive results. Per Hollywood Dermatology & Cosmetic Specialists, on top of impacting the healing process, sun exposure can cause the hyaluronic acid in certain fillers to break down faster — aka the very thing you're trying to avoid.

Slathering on that SPF is a given, then, as is a hat. However, timing is pretty important in that department, too. For filler in your forehead, forgo a hat at least 24 hours post-appointment. Though About Face Skincare notes that this generally applies more to Botox or Dysport, they caution against anything that could put pressure on just-injected fillers, too. The same goes for sunnies. While sunglasses are undoubtedly a great way to prevent squinting in the sun and causing more lines, the outlet points out that the frame could push against the injected area before it's set in place, nixing the volume you've just requested. 

If you were looking for an excuse for a rest day, this is it! Working out the day of, or the day after getting your filler is a complete no-go. Skin by Blair Aesthetics founder, Blair Hayes takes that a step even further, though, suggesting a 72-hour workout-free period, post-appointment. Reason being? According to Aesthetica by Grover Health, increased movement and blood flow can cause filler migration. Remember, we're trying to make that filler go the distance time-wise, not from one part of your face to another. 

Interestingly, outside of that 72-hour window, exercise can continue to have an impact. Speaking to Women's Health, Dr. Tracy Evans noted that regular, heavy exercise can lead to the effects of filler wearing off faster. However, that's not to say swearing off exercise altogether. First of all, even the best results aren't worth compromising your health — but, as the dermatologist pointed out, there are also workarounds, even for those who are seeing filler wear off faster. "In these instances, I prefer to use collagen-stimulating agents, such as Radiesse or Sculptra, which I find tends to produce longer and more appropriate duration," she explained. Skip your workout for a few days after the appointment, and beyond that, speak with your injector for a tailor-made plan. 

As if you needed another reminder to stay hydrated, H20 is arguably one of the best ways to keep that filler looking its best, for the long haul. Chances are, you've seen a social media post using the line, "Fillers love water" — and there's a good reason for that. As pointed out by Nina Prisk of Update Aesthetics, hydration is almost a prerequisite to see the best results from a hyaluronic acid-based filler. "HA based fillers such as Juvederm work by using the water naturally stored in our tissues," the aesthetic nurse explained. In other words, your results are only as impressive (and consistent) as your hydration levels are. Now would be the time to fill up that water bottle and drink up!

Whether you're opting for filler in your lips, your forehead, or anywhere in between, they're a great way to inject (wink, wink) a dose of freshness, without committing to more invasive and permanent procedures. That said, it's great to know the temporary fix can be extended beyond a few months. No one wants to re-visit their injector once a month — and with the right after-care, you won't have to.