Juvederm vs. Restylane: What’s The Difference?

Juvederm and Restylane appear to be very similar on the surface. Both injectable dermal fillers use hyaluronic acid to achieve a volume replacement benefit which results in wrinkle eradication and lifting of the skin. Both treatments are non-surgical, require no downtime, and are virtually pain-free. Finally, they both can be used in similar facial areas to correct similar aging symptoms.

There are, however, a few key differences between Juvederm and Restylane. Here’s an overview of the benefits and weaknesses of each filler.

The Difference between Juvederm and Restylane

Formula

The formulas of Juvederm and Restylane use the same active ingredient: hyaluronic acid (HA). Hyaluronic acid is a natural carbohydrate molecule found in all living cells. HA is a well-known humectant which means it has the ability to attract and retain moisture.

In fact, it can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This ability is what allows both fillers to add volume and plump the skin. Since the hyaluronic acid found in both Juvederm and Restylane are naturally occurring there is little to no risk of allergic reactions among patients.

Texture

The biggest difference between Restylane and Juvederm is their texture. Restylane is granular and more cohesive while Juvederm has a smoother texture. These texture differences give both fillers different strengths. The smoothness of Juvederm makes it better at addressing finer lines and wrinkles in tight facial areas.

In contrast, the cohesive nature of Restylane allows it to stay in the place in the injected which makes it ideal for adding volume in specific sunken facial areas. Restylane is also moldable, which allows the injector to better create shapes and contours.

Treatment Areas

Restylane and Juvederm both have different formulas that target different facial areas. Juvederm can be used to address numerous areas of the face including the eyes, cheeks, and mouth. The Juvederm family includes Juvederm Ultra (original formula), Juvederm Voluma (FDA approved to enhance cheek volume), Juvederm Volbella (targeting lip lines and other fine lines around the mouth), and Juvederm Vollure (formulated to target severe folds and wrinkles included the nasolabial folds).

Restylane can be used to address many of the same facial areas as Juvederm, however, it is particularly effective in treating the lips, cheeks, and area around the nose. It can also be used for hand rejuvenation by adding volume to the back of the hands. The Restylane family includes Restylane Silk (lips), Restylane Lyft (mid-face, cheeks, nasolabial folds), and Restylane Refyne and Defyne (to address more severe wrinkling).

Results

Juvederm and Restylane have the ability to provide dramatic results, eradicating lines and wrinkles while boosting volume to make the skin firmer and plumper in appearance. Juvederm actually works slightly quicker, its results are apparent immediately whereas the results of Restylane can take a day or so to take full effect.

How Long Results Last

Comparing result duration (that is how long results last) between dermal fillers can be difficult as many variables beyond filler type including the treatment area and the patient’s metabolism play a role. Clinical results state that these fillers can last anywhere between 9 to 12 months.

The hyaluronic acid found in both formulas is biodegradable which is why results are non-permanent, over time the body will naturally cannibalize the added hyaluronic acid returning the treatment area to its pre-treated state. Patients can choose to maintain the results of Restylane and Juvederm by undergoing periodic maintenance treatments.

Pain

Patients experience little to no pain during a filler treatment, especially when it is performed by a skilled injector. Juvederm and Restylane procedures are non-surgical and minimally invasive, the filler is administered through a series of injections using an ultra-fine needle.

Many formulas in both families contain lidocaine, which numbs the skin during injections to minimize any patient discomfort. Added topical numbing cream may also be applied to the treatment area if requested by the patient.

Treatment Time

Dermal filler treatments like Juvederm and Restylane are extremely quick and can even be performed during a patient’s lunch hour. While treatment time can differ, most patients will be in and out of the office within 30 to 45 minutes.

Downtime

There is no downtime (recovery time) required for either Juvederm or Restylane. Patients can go right back to their normal daily activities directly following the procedure. We do ask patients to reframe from working out for 24 hours to help decrease any post-procedure swelling.

Side Effects

Potential side effects for both treatments are relatively minor and typically resolve without any intervention. Common side effects may include bruising, swelling, redness, rash, or pain around the site of the injection. Serious side effects are rare and can include allergic reactions, changes to skin color, infection, numbness, and scarring.

Cost

Restylane and Juvederm pricing is very comparable. However, the cost of any filler procedure can vary greatly depending on the needs of each patient. The procedure cost for either treatment is contingent on the amount of filler needed to accomplish the patient’s desired end result. Cost can only be calculated after a skilled injector assesses patient needs during an in-person consultation.

Juvederm vs. Restylane: Which is better?

So which filler is better? The answer is a simple “it depends”. While it’s good for consumers to understand the differences and benefits of each filler, the final decision on which filler is best for you should be left up to a skilled injector.

An experienced provider will be able to assess your individual needs in order to develop the best course of treatment. In fact, it’s not uncommon for injectors to recommend using a combination of both fillers to create the patient’s desired end result.

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