In the ever-evolving world of aesthetics and medical technology, few dermal fillers, or even cosmetic treatments, have earned the right to mainstay status. FDA-approved, Juvéderm®, has rocked the industry with a top-performing family of products that providers can depend on for safe, consistent, and stunning results. It’s no wonder Juvéderm® has reliably held the lead as the #1 collection of fillers in the United States. 

Juvéderm® is formulated with hyaluronic acid (HA) at the forefront—a naturally occurring substance in human joints and other soft connective tissues. Hyaluronic acid is highly hydrophilic and forms a viscous network that resists compression, stabilizing the extracellular matrix structure and forming molecule composites that act as a cushioning lubricant. 

Hyaluronic acid plays a vital role in the human body, making this naturally occurring polysaccharide the perfect candidate for long-lasting injectable application. Hyaluronic acid fillers are a top choice for clients—nearly 90% of filler patients receive treatment with a hyaluronic-acid-based filler. When a synthetic form of this humectant is injected into the lips, cheeks, chin, or other parts of the face, it delivers a youthful, volumized appearance to the skin—effectively filling deep creases and wrinkles, firming laxity, and sculpting out desirable contours. Since hyaluronic acid is familiar to the human body, metabolization is a natural process and HA will dissolve gradually over time, with visible results lasting for six months to two years depending on the individual, treatment area, and product selection. 

The Juvéderm® Collection features seven hyaluronic-acid-based filler formulas each designed for a specific use. These seven distinct products are not superior to each other, but rather formulated for unique indications. Though each formula delivers a volumizing effect, the viscosities, metabolization rates, and advantages vary so it is essential to select your product thoughtfully for the best possible results. Your clients' goals and concerns will help guide your selection but ultimately, all Juvéderm® formulas offer a beautiful range of benefits when used for their designated purpose. Look to this formula breakdown for indications, needle-gauge recommendations, and so much more.

Please note, eligibility to administer HA fillers varies across states. Most states require administration by a board-certified registered nurse, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or physician. Dermal filler procedures are usually carried out by plastic surgeons and dermatologists, though other physicians can also use them after appropriate training. All FDA-approved dermal fillers are meant for prescription use only and the safety and effectiveness of treatment with Juvéderm® products in anatomical regions outside of approved uses have not been established in clinical studies. 

Product Duration

When navigating the Juvéderm® collection of fillers, a safe place to start comparisons is product duration, or how long it takes for the body to metabolize and/or dissolve the filler and necessitate re-treatment to maintain original results. Though all of Juvéderm®’s dermal fillers contain a synthetic form of hyaluronic acid which has an incredible ability to hold and attract moisture for several months at a time, a few formulas contain a unique technology that offers additional durational advantages: These products are Voluma, Vollure, Volbella, Volite, Volift, and Volux, and—also known as the “V” fillers—which are formulated with Vycross®.  

Vycross® is an innovative technology that combines molecular weights to extend the duration of dermal fillers and increase the capacity for visible lift. Vycross® technology produces an efficiently and tightly cross-linked gel that is capable of even stronger bonds. Traditional dermal fillers offered a constitution of 100% high molecular weight while Vycross® technology is comprised of 10% high molecular weight and 90% low molecular weight hyaluronic acid. This unique combination allows providers to inject, mold, and contour the injected substance to yield a more natural result. 

The “V” fillers, powered by Vycross® technology, offer a longer duration due to the tightly linked bonds that take longer for our bodies to break down. Juvéderm® products formulated with Vycross® technology allow your clients to enjoy their results for several months to years without follow-up appointments—a perk that appeals to many patients. 

Filler Cost

A possible drawback for these longer-lasting dermal fillers is cost, which is why it’s important for providers to discuss budget at the initial consultation. Juvéderm® Collection products are supplied as pre-filled syringes and some clients may require more than one syringe to achieve their desired results. All Portrait providers are encouraged to set rates for their services relative to experience, location, and several other determining factors. Look to this guide to help you determine the pricing of your procedures.

Formula Viscosity

Another important differentiator between formulas is viscosity, or the thickness and texture of the injectable substance. Each of the Juvéderm® fillers offers its own unique composition tailored to the designated treatment area. For instance, a provider may use a more viscous filler, such as Juvéderm® Voluma, to deliver dramatic volume and lift to sunken areas of the face, while a thinner viscosity filler like Juvéderm® Ultra XC to subtly augment lips or undereyes. Vycross® technology-powered fillers are ideal for patients who are concerned about looking overfilled, as the gel-like liquid offers smooth, natural-looking fullness that subtly blends into your facial features. Each Juvéderm® formula touts its own viscosity and aesthetic advantages—discover the perfect product for your client and their concerns in the following filler breakdown.

Juvéderm® Voluma® XC

Juvéderm® Voluma® XC is an injectable gel intended for deep injection—subcutaneous and/or supraperiosteal—into the cheek area to correct age-associated volume loss in the mid-face. This formula offers the thickest viscosity in the Juvéderm® Collection and is often used to improve the profile through chin augmentation. Juvéderm® Voluma® XC is approved for adults over the age of 21 and can last up to two years after the first treatment. Subsequent sessions will require lesser volumes for the same excellent outcome.

The deep injections are administered with a 27-gauge needle and it is recommended to use a Luer-lock syringe to prevent accidental dislodgment of the needle during use. Please note, proper technique requires you to avoid excessive force while injecting.

You should avoid using this product on clients with a history of allergy to dermal fillers, lidocaine, and Gram-positive bacterial proteins. Clients with bleeding disorders, several severe allergies, or a history of anaphylaxis are also not strong candidates for this formula. The safety of Juvéderm® Voluma® XC has not been studied in clients under 35 years of age or over 65 years for cheek augmentation, or under 22 years and over 80 years for chin augmentation. The safety of use during pregnancy and lactation has also not been studied.

Juvéderm® Vollure® XC

Juvéderm® Vollure® XC is an injectable gel formulated for mid-to-deep dermis injection into the facial tissue to correct moderate-to-severe wrinkling around the mouth and nose. Juvéderm® Vollure® XC addresses a reduction in skin elasticity and replenishes volume to modify perioral wrinkles. This formula is approved for use in clients over the age of 21 and results should last as long as 18 months.

You should avoid using this product on clients with a history of allergy to dermal fillers, lidocaine, or Gram-positive bacterial proteins. People with bleeding disorders, multiple severe allergies, or a history of anaphylaxis are also not strong candidates. The safety for use during pregnancy and lactation has not been studied. The safety of Juvéderm® Vollure® XC has also not been studied in clients under 22 years of age.

Juvéderm® Ultra XC & Ultra Plus XC

Juvéderm® Ultra XC and Juvéderm® Ultra Plus XC are high-viscosity formulas intended for injection into the mid-to-deep dermis of the face to correct moderate-to-severe wrinkles, for lip augmentation, and perioral rejuvenation—creating a dramatic volumizing effect. Juvéderm® Ultra XC and Ultra Plus XC are approved for use in adults over the age of 21 and results should last up to a year. 

The lips have a rich vasculature, supplied by the superior and inferior labial arteries. Knowledge of blood vessel anatomy and tissue planes is vital. Proper technique and equipment to avoid the blood vessels is crucial: Accidental injection of a dermal filler into a blood vessel can have serious consequences like vision abnormalities, stroke, temporary scabs, or permanent skin scarring. Using short needles to ensure injection into the subcutaneous plane is safer than administering it into the submucosal plane.

You should avoid using these products on clients with a history of allergy to dermal fillers, lidocaine, or Gram-positive bacterial proteins. Clients with bleeding disorders, several severe allergies, or a history of anaphylaxis are also not strong candidates. Safety for use during pregnancy and lactation has not been studied. The safety of Juvéderm® Ultra XC and Juvéderm® Ultra Plus XC  has also not been studied in clients under 18 years of age.

Juvéderm® Volbella XC

Juvéderm® Volbella® XC is a formula intended for lip augmentation, the correction of perioral lines, and injection into the undereye to improve the appearance of volume loss and hollowing. Juvéderm® Volbella® XC is approved only for adults over the age of 21 and results can last up to a year.

Undereye hollow modification involves injecting the dermal filler near the eye and requires specialized training for this treatment area—special care is needed when injecting near the eye for safety reasons. Needle detachment can cause injury, and it is important to inject slowly and with controlled force. 

You should avoid using this product on clients with a history of allergy to dermal fillers, lidocaine, or Gram-positive bacterial proteins. Clients with bleeding disorders, several severe allergies, or a history of anaphylaxis are also not strong candidates. The safety of Juvéderm® Vollure® XC has not been studied in clients under 22 years of age or during pregnancy and lactation.

Juvéderm® Volite

Juvéderm® Volite was formulated to treat fine lines and wrinkles on the face, décolletage, and hands to deliver a plump, hydrated look to the treatment area. Juvéderm® Volite is approved only for adults over the age of 21 and results can last up to nine months. 

The syringes are supplied with 32-gauge needles for injections into the dermis. You should avoid this product for clients with a history of allergy to dermal fillers, lidocaine, or Gram-positive bacterial proteins. Clients with bleeding disorders, several severe allergies, or a history of anaphylaxis are also not strong candidates. Safety for use during pregnancy and lactation has not been studied.

Juvéderm® Volift

Juvéderm® Volift addresses age-associated volume loss, deep skin folds and defines contours in the face and lips. Juvéderm® Volift was formulated to volumize nasolabial folds and restore the natural three-dimensional contour of the treated region. This formula should be used on clients over the age of 21 and results are visible for up to a year. 

You should avoid this product for clients with a history of allergy to dermal fillers, lidocaine, and Gram-positive bacterial proteins. Clients with bleeding disorders, several severe allergies, or a history of anaphylaxis are also not strong candidates. Safety for use during pregnancy and lactation has not been studied.

Juvéderm® Volux

Juvéderm® Volux is specifically formulated for chin and jawline enhancement—its dense consistency enables you to inject subcutaneously or supraperiostealy to precisely sculpt soft features, firm laxity, and dramatically define contours such as the jawline. Juvéderm® Volux should be used for clients over the age of 21 and results are visible for 12–18 months.

Avoid using this product on clients with a history of allergy to dermal fillers, lidocaine, or Gram-positive bacterial proteins. Clients with bleeding disorders, multiple severe allergies, or a a history of anaphylaxis are also not strong candidates. Safety for use during pregnancy and lactation has not been studied.

Client Care

At the first consultation, you should assess your client's needs and goals, their facial structure and fat pads, degree of volume loss, and skin laxity to guide your treatment selection. Review your client's medical history and the drugs they're taking: Salicylates, NSAIDs, and anti-coagulants can increase bruising and warrant caution. Let your client know about transient pain, swelling, redness, and other side effects and consider prescribing an analgesic for as-needed use.

Juvéderm® absorbs water after it is placed, and there will be further filling. You should consciously under-correct and inform your client results will be visible in a few days once swelling has subsided. Advise your client to avoid exercise and sun exposure for at least a day after their procedure.

To learn more about incorporating Juvéderm® products into your business, contact a Portrait specialist today.

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