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Can You Get Facial Filler While Pregnant?

Key Facts

  • Avoid dermal fillers during pregnancy due to lack of safety data and potential risks to both mother and baby.
  • Dermal fillers, including hyaluronic acid, have not been thoroughly studied in pregnant women, making their safety uncertain.
  • Common side effects of fillers include swelling and bruising, with increased risks during pregnancy due to bodily changes.
  • Topical hyaluronic acid products are generally safe during pregnancy, providing hydration without injections.
  • Consider non-invasive alternatives like skin-toning devices, moisturising facials, and hydration to maintain skin health during pregnancy.
  • Consult a qualified specialist for safe skincare options tailored to pregnancy needs, ensuring both safety and effectiveness.

Injectable dermal fillers are popular for enhancing facial features, such as lips and cheekbones. Despite their existence since the 1970s, their use has surged in recent years. However, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you should avoid dermal fillers. This advice applies whether you’re an experienced filler user or considering it for the first time.

The temptation to use fillers may be high, especially since pregnancy and caring for a newborn often bring sleep deprivation and visible fatigue. However, it is crucial to avoid any cosmetic injectables during this period.

Pregnancy-safe skincare options at Heart Aesthetics Hobart keep your skin radiant without injectables. Discover expert advice tailored to expecting mums.
Heart Aesthetics Hobart offers pregnancy-safe skincare options that keep your skin radiant without injectables. Expecting mums can also discover expert advice tailored to their needs.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are  TGA-approved cosmetic treatments designed to restore lost volume in the face. They are commonly used to plump lips, fill cheeks, and smooth wrinkles. A qualified dermatologist, cosmetic nurse, or plastic surgeon usually administers these treatments.

“Dermal fillers are injectable substances that are placed beneath the skin to add volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial features,” says Dr Deanne Mraz Robinson, a board-certified dermatologist. These fillers replace collagen, elastin, and fat that naturally diminish with age, leading to skin sagging or hollowing.

Types of Fillers

Fillers were mainly made from bovine collagen in the past. Today, modern fillers use safer and more advanced substances. The most commonly used fillers are based on hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in the body. HA fillers work by attracting water to the site and providing instant volume.

Other types of fillers include:

  • Calcium Hydroxyapatite (CaHA): Another natural substance in the body used to stimulate collagen production and add volume.
  • Poly-L-Lactic Acid: A synthetic substance that promotes collagen production over time.

Both HA and CaHA fillers are commonly used, but neither has been thoroughly studied in pregnant women, making their safety during pregnancy uncertain.

Is It Safe to Get Dermal Fillers While Pregnant?

There is no definitive research on the safety of fillers during pregnancy. Since these cosmetic treatments have not been tested on pregnant women, medical professionals advise against using them during this period.

Dr Dendy Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist, explains: “Fillers are often made from lab-produced substances that mimic those found naturally in the body. However, we don’t know their effects on pregnancy because no comprehensive studies have been done—and likely never will be.”

Risks of Fillers During Pregnancy

Dermal fillers come with certain risks, whether you’re pregnant or not. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, and tenderness. In rare cases, serious complications like vascular occlusion—a blocked blood vessel that can lead to tissue damage—can occur. The stakes are higher during pregnancy, as complications could affect both you and your baby.

“Pregnancy involves many changes to the body, including increased blood volume and swelling, which may alter how fillers work or affect the outcome,” says Dr Mraz Robinson. “Additionally, what may look good during pregnancy might not look natural after the face returns to its pre-pregnancy state.”

Given that pregnancy causes fluid retention and facial changes, filler results might look unnatural as your facial structure fluctuates.

Hyaluronic acid serums offer safe hydration for expecting mums in Hobart. Consult Heart Aesthetics Hobart for more pregnancy-friendly skincare solutions
Hyaluronic acid serums offer safe hydration for expecting mums in Hobart. Consult Heart Aesthetics Hobart for more pregnancy-friendly skincare solutions.

Can You Use Hyaluronic Acid While Pregnant?

Hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers are popular because they mimic substances already found in the body. However, injectable hyaluronic acid fillers should still be avoided during pregnancy due to the lack of safety data.

That said, topical hyaluronic acid products, such as serums or creams, are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. These products can help hydrate and plump the skin without the need for injections, providing a temporary cosmetic boost.

When Can You Resume Fillers?

Dr Engelman advises waiting until after you’ve finished breastfeeding before considering dermal fillers again. Even though fillers are injected into the skin rather than the bloodstream, there’s still a potential risk of transferring small amounts of substances to the baby through breast milk.

It’s also worth waiting until your body and face have returned to their pre-pregnancy state before getting fillers. This way, you’ll ensure that the results look natural and last longer.

Alternatives to Fillers During Pregnancy

If you’re looking for ways to maintain a youthful, refreshed look during pregnancy without fillers, there are several safe alternatives you can try:

1. Skin-Toning Devices

At-home devices that use gentle vibrations or microcurrents can help tighten and tone the skin. Dr Engelman recommends the Conture Kinetic Skin Toning Device, which is designed to lift and firm the face and neck. These devices are a non-invasive way to give your skin a boost without any injections.

2. Humidifiers

Hydration is essential for maintaining healthy skin, and a humidifier can help by preventing dry air from stripping it of moisture. Dr Engelman suggests using a humidifier, especially in dry climates, to keep skin supple and hydrated. A well-hydrated face can appear plumper and smoother, reducing the need for filler-like treatments.

3. Moisturising Facials

Pregnancy-safe moisturising facials can help maintain your skin’s hydration and elasticity. Look for facials that use gentle, pregnancy-safe products to enhance your skin’s appearance. Keeping your skin well-moisturised can minimise the appearance of fine lines and keep it looking firm.

4. Stay Hydrated

Hydration plays a significant role in maintaining youthful skin. Drinking enough water helps to flush out toxins and keeps your skin hydrated from the inside out. During pregnancy, it’s recommended to drink up to 12 glasses of water a day to support your overall health and your baby’s development.

5. Sun Protection

UV exposure is one of the main causes of premature skin ageing. Use a pregnancy-safe, mineral-based sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from sun damage. Consistent sunscreen use can help prevent wrinkles and keep your skin looking younger.

A Word on Skincare Safety During Pregnancy

As you navigate pregnancy, it’s important to be cautious about the products and treatments you use on your skin. Always consult your dermatologist or cosmetic nurse specialist before starting any new skincare routine or treatment during this period. They can help you find safe alternatives that fit your skin’s needs.

For those based in Hobart, many skincare options are available at local clinics like Heart Aesthetics Hobart. Consulting with a qualified specialist ensures that you receive safe, tailored treatments for your pregnancy needs.

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Final Thoughts

While the effects of dermal fillers during pregnancy and breastfeeding are uncertain, medical professionals recommend avoiding them to protect both you and your baby. However, many safe and effective skincare alternatives can help maintain a youthful, glowing complexion during this time.

By staying hydrated, using topical treatments like hyaluronic acid, and considering non-invasive skincare devices, you can still achieve great skin without the need for injectables.

For expert advice, consult with your dermatologist or cosmetic nurse specialist to find the best pregnancy-safe skincare options in Hobart. Heart Aesthetics Hobart in Tasmania offers personalised care to ensure your skin remains healthy and vibrant throughout your pregnancy journey.

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Evan Kurzyp

Evan is the founder of Fertility2Family and is passionate about fertility education & providing affordable products to help people in their fertility journey. Evan is a qualified Registered Nurse and has expertise in guiding & managing patients through their fertility journeys.

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