A lot of people get lip fillers, love the results, and then find themselves wondering: how can I make my filler last longer and keep my lips looking full and fresh without having to rebook so soon?
Dr. Don Othoro, a highly certified cosmetic doctor with over 24 years of experience, explains that the key to longer-lasting results starts long before you leave the clinic.
“The type of filler you use and the skill of the injector make all the difference. Some fillers break down more quickly than others, and the way they’re placed matters too. A skilled injector will position the filler in areas of the lips that naturally hold onto the product better. This not only helps extend its lifespan but also ensures it looks natural and not overdone.”
So, how can you make sure your lips stay plump and beautiful for as long as possible? Dr. Othoro’s expert tips will help you stretch the life of your lip filler and save you money in the process.
1. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is key when it comes to maintaining the volume of your lip fillers. Since most lip fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, a substance that naturally attracts water, drinking plenty of fluids will help your filler stay plump and hydrated. The more water you drink, the better your filler will hold onto that precious moisture, keeping your lips looking fuller for longer.
Top tip: Carry a water bottle with you and aim to drink at least two litres of water a day. This isn’t just good for your lips — it benefits your skin and overall health too.
2. Protect Your Lips from the Sun
Sun exposure is one of the fastest ways to break down your lip filler. UV rays can cause the filler to degrade quicker, leading to a shorter lifespan. Always protect your lips with SPF – a lip balm with sun protection will shield them from the harmful effects of UV rays, keeping your filler intact for longer.
Top tip: Apply SPF lip balm every 2-3 hours when you’re out in the sun, especially during peak hours. Don’t forget to reapply after eating or drinking!
3. Avoid Excessive Heat
Heat can be a silent enemy when it comes to maintaining lip filler. Hot environments like steam rooms, saunas, and even very hot showers can accelerate the breakdown of the filler. It’s best to avoid excessive heat in the first few days after your treatment, as your filler is still settling.
Top tip: If you can’t avoid hot showers or saunas, keep your lips cool by applying a cold compress afterwards. This helps soothe and preserve the filler.
4. Be Mindful of Movements
Excessive lip movements, like pursing your lips or using a straw all the time, can speed up the dissolution of your filler in the first two weeks. Similarly, smoking can affect your filler by reducing circulation to the lips, causing it to break down faster. While it’s difficult to avoid all lip movement, being mindful of the activities you do and how often you use them can help extend the life of your filler.
Top tip: If you need to use a straw, try to limit it and avoid pursing your lips too much. And if you smoke, consider reducing the habit for both your lips and overall health.