Dermal fillers are popular among women who use them as part of their regular cosmetic routine. Some pregnant patients want to continue their treatments throughout their pregnancy because they value consistent outcomes. However, utilizing injectables when pregnant is a tricky business. While there is no significant health risk for an adult woman to use injectables, the data on the impact on unborn children is less clear.
Understanding the dangers and benefits of taking dermal fillers while pregnant is critical. Here are some things to consider as you make this personal decision.
Dermal Filler Basics
Dermal fillers are FDA-approved cosmetic procedures that restore lost volume to the face. They are permitted for injection into the cheeks, jowls, and lips, while certain brands are also approved for other body parts, such as the hands. Face fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth wrinkles, reduce creases, and improve facial features. These injectables are commonly used to replenish lost collagen, elastin, and fat, which begin to diminish as we age, resulting in hollowness and skin laxity.
Dermal fillers are often made of hyaluronic acid, found naturally in the body. Many dermal fillers are tailored for a specific location and last a varied amount of time. Dermal fillers may be used almost everywhere on the face, from the lips to the cheeks and below the eyes to the tips of the hands. Most dermal fillers last 6 to 12 months; however, you can dissolve your filler sooner if you like.
According to Studies
There have been few large-scale studies that directly examine the effects of dermal fillers on pregnant women. This is mainly due to the tricky ethics of potentially endangering an unborn child. On the other hand, one research gathered information from 12 clinicians who had done dermal fillers on pregnant women. While the study revealed no apparent link between the use of injectables and any fetal abnormalities, the sample size was so tiny that the researchers determined that more research was needed.
To maintain safe aesthetics, it is usually advised that patients avoid injectables during pregnancy. While there have been no established adverse effects associated with dermal fillers, it is the safest option for women who want to protect and keep their babies.
According to the FDA, pregnant and lactating women should avoid getting dermal fillers because of their shifting pregnancy hormones. It can interfere with blood flow and produce edema. In other words, it may cause problems for the mother rather than the infant. Furthermore, many pregnant women already have larger lips, so going for dermal fillers is typically not a wise choice, especially if you need long-lasting fillers.
Pregnancy and post-partum can also create changes in a woman’s skin, making injectables and fillers more likely to produce unanticipated outcomes. However, few studies have been on the impact and safety of injectables and fillers in pregnant or nursing women. Because of this lack of information, the FDA and many doctors advise pregnant women to postpone obtaining injectables or fillers until they have done nursing (if they intend to).
What should you do
It’s natural to pamper oneself when pregnant or as a new mother. This is especially true if you had injections or fillers regularly before your pregnancy. Even though there is no proof that neurotoxins in injectables like Botox or hyaluronic acid in fillers circulate in the body, many moms choose to be cautious. So, what can you do in its place?
There are several ways to pamper oneself when pregnant or nursing that has been demonstrated to pose no harm to newborns or breastfeeding toddlers. Microneedling is one of the most popular. This method utilizes the body’s natural healing abilities to make skin seem more supple, younger, and brighter. For best results, combine microneedling with a facial, and work with an aesthetician to address the most resistant “pregnancy skin,” from breakouts to melasma.
Alternative Solutions while you are pregnant.
Opt for laser therapies
These therapies are pretty helpful in the treatment of aged skin. However, whether a patient is pregnant or not, there is always a danger of redness, irritation, and other darkening effects while using this medication. Because lasers have a local effect, the risks of employing laser therapy during pregnancy have not been well researched. Although lasers have been used safely for various medical procedures in pregnant women, there is relatively little evidence of their usage during pregnancy.
Using retinoid-based topical applications
While retinoid-based topical treatments can heal sun-damaged skin and minimize wrinkle appearance, some chemicals found in certain brands should not be used during pregnancy. Before using any topical treatment, always speak with your doctor regarding its safety.
Opting for Chemical Peels
When done briefly during pregnancy, glycolic acid peels are usually safe. Salicylic acid peels should be avoided whenever feasible, so talk to your clinician about whether specific treatments are safe during pregnancy.
Changing up your lifestyle for a healthier skin
Specific dietary and lifestyle adjustments can significantly enhance the look of facial skin. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in grains, vegetables, fruits, and proteins is critical for keeping your skin nourished. Furthermore, wearing UV-protective clothes and utilizing sunscreen will help you avoid the number one cause of aging skin — sun damage.
It’s okay to wait
Finally, patient safety is always our number one concern at our office. When it comes to safety, it is advisable to err on the side of caution. If you were thinking about using injectables throughout your pregnancy, it is advisable to postpone therapy until after the baby is born. Women can also have more pleasant, consistent outcomes by restarting their treatments when their hormone levels have evened out post-pregnancy.
It’s okay to wait a little longer to obtain Botox, dermal fillers, or any maintenance procedures. The fact that these therapies produce effects quickly is a significant advantage. If you’re familiar with Botox, you’ll know that full results appear in approximately a week. Dermal fillers with hyaluronic acid provide instant effects (though swelling can occur for about two days after the treatment). Consider injectables and dermal fillers as a future treat when your kid is born or you’ve stopped nursing.
Learn more about all treatments offered at Aesthetically Savvy, including dermal fillers and other FDA-approved treatments for expectant mothers. Contact Aesthetically Savvy today by reaching out to our website or by booking an appointment today.