Fillers for Hands

Our hands are often among the first areas of the body, along with our face and neck, that reveal our age by displaying visible signs of aging. They are one of the most unprotected parts of the body, exposed to sun damage, frequent washing, and continuous use in daily activities. As we age, the production of elastin and collagen decreases, resulting in a loss of elasticity and volume in the hands. With reduced volume and hydration, fine lines and wrinkles become increasingly noticeable. Skin thinning with age can also make prominent veins and tendons visible on the back of the hands. Fortunately, dermal fillers can be injected into the hands to plump the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, veins, and tendons. Dr. Green frequently uses hand fillers in her New York City dermatology office to restore the appearance of aging hands to a more youthful and revitalized look.

Dermal fillers are an excellent option for hand rejuvenation, adding volume and plumpness to the hands while diminishing signs of aging. Some common fillers for the hands include Radiesse, Restylane Lyft, Juvederm, and Sculptra. Restylane and Juvederm contain hyaluronic acid, while Radiesse is formulated with calcium hydroxylapatite, and Sculptra is made with poly-L-lactic acid. These substances all work differently in the body to provide a plumping effect on the hands while simultaneously stimulating collagen production to smooth out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time. Hand filler treatment is a non-invasive procedure that requires no downtime, making it one of the best options for restoring a youthful appearance to the hands. If you want to achieve volume restoration and a more youthful-looking appearance in your hands with dermal fillers, Dr. Green is here to help.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing the world’s most discerning men and women with non-invasive cosmetic treatments, including hand fillers. Due to her expertise and dedication to her patients, Dr. Green has consistently been recognized as one of New York City’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times. Dr. Green adopts a holistic approach to dermal fillers, employing a “less-is-more” philosophy to tailor treatment plans to your specific hand anatomy and aesthetic goals, thereby providing the most optimal cosmetic results for your hands. When you consult Dr. Green in her private dermatology office, she will assess your hands and choose the best dermal filler for beautiful, natural-looking hand rejuvenation.

Can fillers be used on hands?

When we think of dermal fillers, we commonly associate them with facial rejuvenation; however, they can also be used for hand rejuvenation. As we age, the volume and fatty tissue in our skin decrease, and collagen and elastin production declines, resulting in visible signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, and crepiness. The loss of volume also causes veins and tendons to become more prominent in the hands. Injecting dermal fillers into the back of the hands can restore lost volume, plumping the skin and creating a more youthful appearance. Although you may experience mild swelling or bruising at the injection sites, you can resume your daily activities immediately after the procedure. Hand fillers can provide long-lasting results for up to a year or more, depending on the specific filler used. Hand fillers are a safe, effective, and non-invasive alternative to plastic surgery, making them a popular choice for hand rejuvenation.

What is the best filler for hands?

There is no single “best” filler to rejuvenate the hands. Various types of fillers can restore volume to the hands, with each differing in formulation and longevity. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will determine the dermal filler best suited for your aesthetic goals and skin concerns. Common fillers used for hand rejuvenation treatment include Restylane Lyft, Juvederm, Sculptra, and Radiesse.

Restylane Lyft

While often used to treat deep nasolabial folds, Restylane Lyft is one of the most common dermal fillers for hand rejuvenation. It is the first and only hyaluronic acid filler approved by the FDA to address volume loss and signs of aging on the hands. As the thickest filler in the Restylane family, it effectively treats deep lines and wrinkles, reducing the appearance of prominent veins and tendons on the hands. This filler contains hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring sugar in the body that provides immediate lifting effects to the injected area. Additionally, Restylane Lyft promotes natural collagen synthesis, offering structural support to the back of the hands. Typically, Restylane Lyft lasts 9 to 12 months before further injections are needed to maintain results.

Radiesse

Radiesse was the first dermal filler to receive FDA approval for hand rejuvenation in 2015. This semi-permanent filler is formulated with calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) and patented microsphere technology to stimulate collagen production. When Radiesse is injected under the skin, it creates a supportive scaffolding for skin cells, initiating collagenase activity and prompting the body to produce new collagen at the injection site and provide volume enhancement. The restored volume effectively fills in deep lines and wrinkles on the back of the hands, resulting in a smoother, more youthful appearance. Radiesse treatment typically requires an initial series of injections spaced one month apart to achieve optimal cosmetic results. Collagen synthesis continues after the CaHA is naturally absorbed by the body, providing long-lasting results for up to 2 years.

Juvederm

While Juvederm is not FDA-approved for hands, dermatologists commonly use it off-label for hand rejuvenation. The Juvederm family features various hyaluronic acid dermal fillers to restore volume loss and lift the skin. Juvederm Voluma, a popular filler for cheek and midface augmentation due to its thicker formulation, is frequently used for hand rejuvenation. Juvederm injections provide an immediate plumping effect on the skin and stimulate collagen synthesis, helping to firm the skin for a youthful appearance. Juvederm products also contain lidocaine to minimize any discomfort experienced during the procedure. Most Juvederm products last 9 to 12 months, although Juvederm Voluma has been found to last longer than 12 months in some patients.

Sculptra

Sculptra is a liquid dermal filler commonly used off-label by dermatologists to treat volume loss in the hands. It is composed of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a substance that stimulates the production of new collagen in the skin. After a series of injections, patients can expect a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and lines, along with firmer, smoother skin. Like Radiesse, collagen continues to be produced long after the body absorbs the PLLA. Immediately before the injection, Sculptra is mixed with lidocaine to ensure patients experience minimal, if any, discomfort during the procedure. Multiple sessions of Sculptra, spaced one month apart, may be required for optimal results. After the last injection session, patients typically experience results that last up to two years.

Who is a good candidate for hand filler treatment?

The best candidates for dermal filler injections in the hands are patients in good physical and mental health who seek to achieve a more youthful appearance in their hands. Patients should not be pregnant or breastfeeding, as the safety of dermal fillers has not yet been established. Individuals are not considered good candidates for hand filler treatment if they have a known history of severe allergic reactions, bleeding disorders, or allergies to lidocaine or gram-positive bacterial proteins, which are used to create hyaluronic acid. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will review your medical history and conditions to determine if hand fillers are suitable for you.

What is the process for hand filler injections?

The first step in hand filler treatment is to have an initial consultation with Dr. Green at her private office on the Upper East Side. During this consultation, Dr. Green will review your medical history, hand anatomy, previous cosmetic procedures, skin concerns, and aesthetic goals to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your hand rejuvenation needs. Photographs of your hands will also be taken for your medical chart to monitor future progress. Same-day treatment is possible if you are deemed a suitable candidate for the procedure.

Before your hand filler treatment, avoid taking any blood- thinning medications for one week, including Coumadin, Warfarin, non- steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Aspirin, Motrin, and Aleve, herbal supplements (e. g., fish oil), and specific vitamins (e. g., multivitamins, vitamin E), to minimize the risk of bruising. Patients who tend to bruise easily can begin taking Arnika Forte, an herbal supplement designed to prevent and heal bruises, two to three days prior to the procedure.

On the day of your hand filler treatment, a topical lidocaine cream will be applied to your hands one hour before your appointment to numb the area and make the procedure more comfortable. Dr. Green recommends placing plastic wrap over the numbing cream to ensure proper anesthetic penetration. When you enter Dr. Green’s office, the numbing cream will be removed, and the area will be sterilized for the procedure. Dr. Green will mark the area and expertly inject the dermal filler into the backs of your hands. Ice will be applied to minimize any bruising or swelling that may occur. The injection sites will be cleaned, and you will receive aftercare instructions to help you achieve the most optimal cosmetic results. Dr. Green will then schedule a follow-up appointment approximately two weeks later, where she will assess the cosmetic results of the procedure and determine if any touch-ups are necessary. Depending on the filler used, results may last six months to two years before another hand filler treatment is needed to maintain results.

What are the side effects of hand filler injections?

There are minimal side effects associated with hand fillers. The most common side effects following filler injections are mild swelling and redness, which typically subside on their own within two weeks of the injection. Bruising at the injection sites may occur more frequently with hand fillers than with facial fillers because of the greater number of blood vessels in the hands.

Lumps are a rare but potential side effect of hand fillers. These lumps result from the filler settling into a single area beneath the skin. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid into its subcomponents, which the body can then absorb. Semi-permanent fillers, such as Radiesse and Sculptra, cannot be dissolved; therefore, patients must wait for their bodies to break down the filler over time naturally. Consulting with an expert injector, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green in New York City, is essential to avoid unwanted cosmetic results. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience with dermal filler injections and possesses the expertise and knowledge to safely and effectively perform hand filler injections for natural, beautiful, long-lasting results.

Is there any downtime or aftercare associated with hand filler treatment?

There is no significant downtime following treatment, and patients can resume their daily activities immediately. Most patients experience slight swelling, redness, or bruising after hand filler treatment. Immediately after the procedure, Dr. Green will apply an ice compress to the affected area to minimize swelling or bruising. Dr. Green recommends that patients avoid strenuous exercise, hot tubs, steam rooms, or saunas for 48 hours to reduce the risk of swelling. To prevent bruising, Dr. Green advises discontinuing any blood thinners, such as Aspirin, Aleve, Motrin, multivitamins, fish oil, or other herbal supplements, for one week before and after the procedure. If you are prone to bruising, it is also recommended to take Arnika Forte, an oral herbal supplement, two to three days before and after the procedure to help prevent and reduce bruising.

Are hand fillers safe?

Absolutely! Hand fillers are incredibly safe and are associated with minimal side effects, such as mild swelling, bruising, and redness. These side effects typically resolve on their own within one to two weeks after the injections, leaving patients with rejuvenated and youthful-looking hands. Restylane Lyft and Radiesse are two dermal fillers approved by the FDA for hand rejuvenation, ensuring that their safety and efficacy are well established. While Juvederm and Sculptra are used off-label for hand rejuvenation, these fillers have been extensively used in the face and have a proven track record for safety when injected. The best way to ensure the safety of your hand rejuvenation procedure is to have it performed by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City, who has the expertise to administer hand fillers safely and effectively.

How long do hand fillers last?

The longevity of aesthetic results depends on the type and amount of filler used. Hyaluronic acid fillers typically last up to a year, with Restylane Lyft results lasting 9 to 12 months and Juvederm Voluma results lasting up to 12 months or more. Radiesse and Sculptra, both collagen biostimulator fillers, generally provide longer-lasting results compared to hyaluronic acid fillers, with effects that can last up to two years after a series of treatments. Additionally, a patient’s metabolism can influence the duration of the filler’s effectiveness in the body. Dr. Green recommends that her patients schedule regular annual treatment sessions to maintain the results of their procedures. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will help you determine the best treatment timeline tailored to your specific concerns and needs, ensuring your hands always look refreshed and revitalized.

Can I combine other treatments with dermal fillers for hand rejuvenation?

Yes! While dermal fillers can help combat age-related volume loss, many other signs of aging can also appear on the hands. Common skin concerns on the hands include skin laxity, sun spots or age spots, fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture, and hyperpigmentation. Anti-aging treatments, such as Thermage, Fraxel, Alex-Trivantage, and Mesopeels, can effectively address various signs of aging and rejuvenate the hands. The best treatment for your aging hands depends on your specific skin concerns and aesthetic goals. Dr. Green can collaborate with you in her private New York City office to determine the most effective treatment options for your aging hands. Typically, a combination approach to hand rejuvenation is most effective in tackling multiple skin concerns and achieving long-lasting, youthful-looking hands.

Collagen loss due to aging can lead to the appearance of loose, crepey skin on the hands. The Thermage FLX laser is a gold-standard skin-tightening treatment that creates firm, smooth skin with no downtime and no side effects. The Thermage FLX delivers radiofrequency energy to gently heat the deep layers of the skin and stimulate collagen production. As new collagen forms, patients will notice a visible improvement in skin laxity, along with a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It can take four to six months to see the results from Thermage FLX, and these results can last for approximately 1.5 years. There is no downtime associated with the procedure, and patients of all skin types and tones can experience the benefits of Thermage FLX.

Sunspots, also known as age spots, are common signs of aging that develop from prolonged sun exposure and skin damage. One popular treatment for eliminating sunspots on the hands is the Fraxel Dual laser. Fraxel is a fractional resurfacing laser that utilizes two wavelengths of light: 1927nm for removing sun damage and hyperpigmentation, and 1550nm for treating wrinkles and improving skin texture. During treatment, fractionated energy is delivered to the dermis to disrupt chromophores and eliminate sunspots from the skin. Dr. Green can also integrate the 1550nm wavelength into the treatment to enhance collagen production in the dermis and create a more even skin texture. The Fraxel laser is an excellent treatment option for patients with diffuse sunspots and pigmentation resulting from sun damage on the backs of their hands. Fraxel involves minimal downtime, typically resulting in two days of redness. Patients usually undergo a series of treatments spaced one month apart to achieve optimal cosmetic results.

Another popular laser treatment for sunspots on the hands is the Candela Alex-Trivantage laser. Unlike the Fraxel laser, the Alex-Trivantage laser is particularly effective for patients with discrete, individual sunspots on the hands, as it delivers specific wavelengths of light to each sunspot. Downtime is minimal, with small scabs developing in the treated area that fall off on their own within five to seven days. Often, Dr. Green combines the Fraxel and Alex-Trivantage lasers, first using the Fraxel laser to treat sun damage across the entire hand and then the Alex-Trivantage laser to remove any stubborn, discrete sunspots. Following any sunspot treatment, the most crucial step is to practice proper sun protection, avoid sun exposure, and use chemical and physical sunscreens to create a protective barrier from the sun.

Chemical peels are an excellent method for gently eliminating sunspots from the hands. They work by exfoliating the skin and promoting skin cell renewal, removing dead, pigmented cells to reveal healthy, bright cells at the skin’s surface. There are various chemical peels available on the market, each suited for specific skin types and tones. Mesopeels are specially formulated chemical peels designed to treat pigmentation, including sunspots, in patients of all skin types and tones, including those with darker skin tones. Typically, a series of chemical peels administered every two to four weeks is necessary to achieve optimal cosmetic results.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about dermal fillers for hand rejuvenation

Where are fillers used in your hands?

Dermal fillers are injected into the backs of the hands to reverse signs of aging and achieve skin rejuvenation. The injections are placed beneath the skin in areas where volume loss is most prominent, typically between the metacarpal bones. During the hand filler procedure, an injector may use either a needle or a cannula to ensure precise placement of the filler.

What is the best filler for aging hands?

The best filler for hand rejuvenation treatment varies among individuals. The severity of skin concerns can determine which filler may be chosen for your treatment, as some fillers are better suited for mild volume loss while others are ideal for more severe volume loss. Your aesthetic goals will also influence this decision; some individuals may prefer immediate results, while others may be satisfied with a gradual approach. To identify the best filler for you, it is advisable to consult with an expert injector, such as Dr. Green, who can assess your hands, skin concerns, and cosmetic desires to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your hand rejuvenation needs.

How much do hand fillers cost?

The cost of fillers for hand rejuvenation treatment varies based on several factors, including the type and amount of filler used, geographical location, and the injector’s expertise. Some fillers are priced per syringe, while others are priced by vial. The amount of filler required depends on the severity of your skin concerns, your aesthetic goals, and the specific type of filler used. While medspas can be less costly than board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons, selecting an injector with extensive experience and expertise is crucial to minimize the risk of developing unwanted side effects. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green has been expertly injecting soft tissue fillers for over 25 years and will develop a customized hand rejuvenation plan to achieve long-lasting, youthful-looking results. During your consultation with Dr. Green, your hands will be assessed to determine the type and amount of filler needed for your customized treatment plan. At this time, her office will provide an estimate of pricing.

How much filler is needed for hand rejuvenation?

Typically, two syringes of dermal fillers are needed for hand rejuvenation treatment. The amount of filler required for your hands will depend on several factors, including the severity of your skin concerns and the desired aesthetic outcome. The type of filler used will also influence this determination, as each filler has a unique composition and thickness. Dr. Green employs a “less is more” approach to dermal fillers, often starting with a conservative amount of filler to ensure that your hand filler treatment appears natural. After your initial injection procedure, Dr. Green will invite you back to her private office on the Upper East Side to assess whether any additional filler is needed.

How long does Radiesse last in the hands?

Radiesse is a biostimulating filler that incorporates calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) and patented microsphere technology to enhance collagen production in the skin. After an initial series of injections, Radiesse can last for up to two years in the skin.

How long does Restylane last on the hands?

Restylane Lyft is a hyaluronic acid-based filler that offers immediate volume restoration and plumpness upon injection into the skin. After treatment, Restylane Lyft can last for nine to twelve months before re-treatment is necessary.

Is filler harmful to the hands?

No, dermal fillers are not harmful when injected into the hands. Restylane Lyft and Juvederm are composed of hyaluronic acid, a substance that naturally occurs in the body, which plumps the skin and immediately restores lost volume. Radiesse and Sculptra work by stimulating the body’s natural collagen production, resulting in smooth, supple skin. Restylane Lyft and Radiesse are both FDA-approved for hand rejuvenation treatment, indicating that their safety and efficacy in this area have been well studied. Although Juvederm and Sculptra have not yet received FDA approval for hand rejuvenation, their safety and cosmetic results have been thoroughly researched in various facial areas. The best way to ensure that dermal filler treatment is safe for hand rejuvenation is to consult with an experienced injector, such as Dr. Green. Having dermal fillers performed by an inexperienced or untrained injector can lead to unwanted side effects or poor cosmetic results. Dr. Green is a board-certified dermatologist who has utilized dermal fillers for over two and a half decades for both hand and pan-facial rejuvenation. When you consult with Dr. Green in New York City, you can be assured that your hand filler treatment will be safe and yield stunning, natural-looking results.

Do dermal fillers for hand rejuvenation work?

Yes! Hand fillers are an excellent non-invasive treatment for rejuvenating the hands. These fillers work by restoring the volume and collagen lost due to the natural aging process. As the fillers are injected into the back of the hand, the skin is lifted, smoothing out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Restoring volume to the hands also enhances the appearance of prominent tendons and veins, thereby improving the overall look of the hands. Various dermal fillers, including Restylane and Sculptra, are available for hand rejuvenation. An expert injector, such as Dr. Green, will select the most suitable filler based on your hand anatomy and skin concerns. These fillers can provide long-lasting, youthful-looking hand rejuvenation, with results lasting anywhere from 12 to 24 months, depending on the specific filler used. There is no downtime or adverse side effects associated with hand filler treatment, making it an excellent alternative to invasive plastic re interested in hand rejuvenation with dermal fillers, consult board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green to determine the filler most appropriate for your cosmetic and aesthetic goals.

How to get started with hand fillers today

Dermal fillers for the hands are an excellent way to reduce signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, crepey skin, and prominent veins and tendons. When injected into the back of the hands, dermal fillers can immediately plump the skin and diminish the appearance of visible veins, fine lines, and wrinkles. Restylane Lyft and Radiesse are currently the only two fillers approved by the FDA for hand rejuvenation, while other fillers, such as Juvederm and Sculptra, are often used off-label to treat the hands. The procedure for hand fillers is non-invasive, safe, and requires no downtime, making them an excellent option for rejuvenating the hands. Hand fillers can also be paired with other in-office treatments, such as laser treatments and chemical peels, to provide comprehensive rejuvenation for the hands. With hand fillers, Dr. Green can address volume loss in your hands to create a more youthful, natural-looking appearance, allowing you to feel like your best self again.

Dr. Michele Green is a world-renowned, board-certified dermatologist providing expert patient care to the world’s most discerning men and women. She has over 25 years of experience in non-invasive cosmetic treatments, including hand fillers, laser treatments, specially formulated skincare, and Botox. Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times have consistently voted her one of New York’s best dermatologists due to her dedication and accessibility to her patients. She employs a conservative, “less-is-more” approach to hand rejuvenation, ensuring that patients are left with a youthful, smooth, natural-looking appearance that lasts. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green and learn more about the various treatment options for addressing aging hands, please contact the office online or call 212-535-3088.