Juvederm and Restylane are similar in that they are both injectable dermal fillers that use hyaluronic acid—a naturally occurring substance already produced in the body—to volumize areas of the face that have started to look lackluster, deflated, or worn over time.
Yet, the two products are not identical in composition or results, and thus it’s worth looking at them closer to help us determine which is better to use in your specific situation.
Both Juvederm and Restylane use the same active ingredient
The active ingredient in both injectables is hyaluronic acid or HA. HA is a carbohydrate molecule naturally present in all living cells. Its unique properties allow it to retain moisture, holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This special active ingredient makes both Juvederm and Restylane effective in volumizing and plumping up the skin.
Juvederm has a smoother texture
While Juvederm has a smoother texture, Restylane is better at remaining in the place where it is injected, making it a better option for adding volume in specific areas of the face. But when it comes to tackling fine lines and facial wrinkles, Juvederm is the better choice.
Treatment times for both are the same
Either of these fillers can be injected over a long lunch break, with treatment taking between 20 and 40 minutes depending on the size and state of the area(s) to be treated.
Neither injectable requires recovery downtime
No recovery period or downtime is required after getting Restylane or Juvederm. You can return right back to your everyday social and professional life immediately after treatment, barring a few restrictions (such as exercise and heavy exertion) from allowing the product to settle well and so what we intend it to.
Restylane is effective in the lips, cheeks, and around the nose
While both of these dermal fillers can treat all common areas of concern on the face, such as under and around the eyes, the cheeks, and the lips, Restylane is uniquely effective in treating the lips, cheeks, and around the nose.
Results of either filler can be similar
Both Restylane and Juvederm can produce beautiful and dramatic cosmetic improvements in the face. Patients will experience fewer facial lines and wrinkles, improved volume, firmer skin, and a plumper appearance.
Results tend to last about the same amount of time
Because the key ingredient in both Juvederm and Restylane is hyaluronic acid, the results of both fillers tend to endure the same length of time. It’s difficult to tell how long results will last exactly, as everyone metabolizes the ingredients at different rates; however, they typically last between 9 and 12 months.
So which is better?
Both products will do a fine job of reducing the appearance of wrinkles and volumizing areas needing a refresh. Which you choose to use might come down to personal preference. Still, suppose you present to us with a particular concern. In that case, we will usually recommend Restylane for volumizing a specific area of the face and Juvederm to treat fine lines and facial wrinkles in general. Of course, the best way to choose the perfect dermal filler for you is in a personal consultation in our office.