English 
Español
Posted on 18 Jun 2026
Dermal fillers are one of our most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatments because they offer a quick and effective way to add volume to your face and enhance your current features. While we use high-quality fillers to help your results last as long as possible, what you do after your appointment matters too. Proper filler aftercare can help you maintain your results and keep your skin looking its very best.
How Long Do Fillers Last?
Your metabolism, activity level, skincare habits, and original treatment can influence how long your results last.
As a general guideline, you can expect:
- Lip fillers: 6-12 months
- Nasolabial folds and marionette lines: 9-18 months
- Cheek fillers: 12-24 months
- Jawline and chin fillers: 12-24 months
- Under-eye filler: 12 months
Maintenance and additional fillers for an area are based on provider assessment and are treated only when needed.
Our Top 4 Filler Aftercare Tips
The first 24-48 hours after your treatment can have a lasting impact on your results. Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do for the first few days after your treatment to help protect filler results.
Avoid Intense Exercise for 24-48 Hours
A light walk should be fine, but it’s best to skip strenuous workouts for the first couple of days after your treatment. Activities that significantly raise your heart rate can increase swelling and bruising at the injection sites. Give your body time to heal, especially if you had filler placed in your lips.
Stay Out of The Heat
Heat can increase inflammation and swelling after treatment. For two days, stay away from:
- saunas
- hot tubs
- steam rooms
- prolonged sun exposure
This is especially important during the summer, when outdoor activities can pack a double whammy– exposing your treated skin to heat and UV rays.
Sleep on Your Back if You Can
This one can be tricky if you’re a side or stomach sleeper, but sleeping on your back can make a noticeable difference in your recovery period. Prolonged pressure against freshly treated areas when sleeping face-down can contribute to swelling and cause discomfort while your filler settles. Try to sleep on your back, and consider using an extra pillow to elevate your head and minimize overnight swelling.
Skip Facial Massages
Unless your injector specifically tells you otherwise, avoid facial massages, gua sha tools, facial rollers, and professional facial treatments immediately after receiving filler. Applying pressure to the treated area can interfere with the healing process and increase irritation. You should be able to resume your normal skincare and facial routines after a few days, but double-check with your provider about your specific timeline.
How to Make Filler Last Longer With Healthy Habits
No lifestyle change can stop fillers from naturally breaking down over time, but certain habits can maintain the quality of your skin and help extend the life of your results. It’s just as important to take care of your skin from the inside as it is the outside.
As Dr. Neaman points out, “The goal isn’t to make filler last forever. The goal is to maintain healthy skin and natural-looking results for as long as possible.”
This is exactly how you do that.
Stay Hydrated
A lot of popular dermal fillers are made with hyaluronic acid, which attracts and holds water. Drinking plenty of water gives your skin a healthy glow and can help hyaluronic acid fillers look their best. Now, drinking more water won’t magically extend the life of your filler, but it can contribute to healthier, plumper-looking skin.
Protect Your Filler From Sun Damage
If you’re wondering, “Can sun damage fillers?” The answer is a resounding YES.
Research hasn’t yet confirmed whether sun exposure causes dermal fillers to dissolve faster, though anecdotal evidence suggests yes. However, we know without a doubt that UV exposure does contribute to collagen loss and premature aging.
One of the most important things you can do for your skin is wear sunscreen every day and minimize sun exposure as much as possible. Be sure to protect your lips as well– choose a lip balm with at least SPF 15.
Invest in Medical-Grade Skincare
A consistent skincare routine is essential for maintaining healthier skin in between treatments. Medical-grade products usually contain higher-quality ingredients and formulations designed to support collagen production and hydration. Products like SkinMedica’s Dermal Repair Cream and HA5 Hydrating Foam Cleaner can complement your treatment plan and help protect your results. However, you don’t have to invest in medical-grade skincare– the best skincare after filler is the one you consistently use.
Limit Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Smoking and excessive alcohol can take a toll on your skin. Smoking contributes to collagen breakdown and reduced circulation, and alcohol can leave your skin dehydrated and inflamed. Reducing or eliminating these habits will improve your filler results and the overall health of your skin.
Dermal Filler Maintenance: When to Schedule
Even with top-notch filler aftercare, dermal fillers aren’t permanent. Over time, your body naturally metabolizes the product and causes results to soften and fade. Instead of waiting for their filler to completely disappear, a lot of our patients decide to schedule maintenance appointments that help their results stay consistent and natural-looking.
The right timing for touch-ups depends on the treatment area, type of filler used, and your body’s natural metabolism. Some patients prefer subtle, ongoing maintenance, while others wait until they notice more significant changes.
Get the Most From Your Filler Results
Dermal fillers can be a great way to restore volume and refresh your appearance, but getting the results you want doesn’t end with attending your appointment. Follow proper filler aftercare, protect your skin from the sun, and maintain a consistent skincare routine to help you enjoy your results for as long as possible.
If you’re considering filler treatments or you’re ready for a touch-up, our team can help you create a personalized plan designed around your goals.
Ready to refresh your look? Schedule your dermal filler consultation today.
