When do you the effects of a hyaluronic acid injection become visible ?

Home » Blog » Quand voit-on l’effet d’une injection d’acide hyaluronique ?

Hyaluronic acid is an increasingly popular solution for those seeking to reduce the signs of aging, improve skin hydration, or restore facial volume. However, one question often arises among patients considering this type of treatment : “When can you see the effects of a hyaluronic acid injection ?” This article answers this question in detail, exploring the factors that influence how quickly results appear, the recovery process, and the various expectations one can have after a hyaluronic acid injection.

Mechanism of action of hyaluronic acid

Before addressing the question of how long it takes to see results, it is essential to understand what hyaluronic acid is and how it works. Hyaluronic acid is a molecule naturally present in our body that plays a crucial role in the skin’s hydration and structure. In aesthetic-oriented medicine, it is mainly used in gel form to be injected in order to fill wrinkles, restore volume to areas of the face that have lost it, and improve the overall quality of the skin.
Hyaluronic acid works by attracting water to the treated area, giving the skin a youthful and fresh appearance.

The time it takes for the effects to appear after a hyaluronic acid injection

In general, the effects of hyaluronic acid injections are visible immediately after the treatment. However, the final result can only be fully assessed after a few days to a few weeks. Here is an overview of the process.

Immediate effect : right after the injection, the patient can already see a significant improvement, as the product instantly fills wrinkles and hollows or lifts the face. However, these initial results may be altered by slight swelling or temporary redness, which are normal reactions to the injection.
The first few days : in the days following the injection, it is possible to experience slight tenderness or small bruises around the treated area. These minor side effects usually disappear within a few days, giving way to a more natural result.
Optimal result : the final result is often visible between 7 and 14 days after the injection, when the hyaluronic acid has fully integrated into the tissues and the initial swelling has subsided.

Factors influencing the time it takes for hyaluronic acid injection results to appear

Several factors can influence how quickly the effects of a hyaluronic acid injection become visible.

The type of hyaluronic acid used : there are various types of hyaluronic acid, which differ in consistency, concentration, and degree of cross-linking (chemical bonding of the molecules). A thicker product, designed to restore volume in areas such as the cheeks, may take more time to show its final results. Conversely, a less cross-linked and less volumizing product, such as those used for superficial wrinkles, may act more quickly.
Skinbooster is a hyaluronic acid designed for skin hydration, while Hyacorp is a hyaluronic acid used for body injections , such as buttock enhancement.
The treated area : some areas of the face respond more quickly than others to hyaluronic acid injections. For example, the lips tend to swell quite rapidly, but once the swelling subsides, the final results become visible sooner than in other parts of the face.
The patient’s metabolism : each patient reacts differently to injections depending on their metabolism. People with a fast metabolism may see results more quickly, but the effects may also fade sooner.
Injector’s technique : the expertise of the injecting physician is crucial for an optimal result. An experienced doctor will know how to choose the most appropriate technique and product for each patient, ensuring maximum effectiveness and a natural-looking result.

Recovery after a hyaluronic acid injection

The recovery process after a hyaluronic acid injection is generally quick and free of major complications. However, to optimize results and reduce the risk of side effects, it is important to follow certain post-treatment recommendations :

Avoid intense activities : within 24 to 48 hours after the injection, it is recommended to avoid intense physical activities and exposure to heat (saunas, hot baths) to minimize the risk of swelling and redness.
Do not touch or massage the treated area : it is important not to touch or massage the area to avoid displacing the product and to allow it to integrate smoothly into the tissues.
Avoid sun exposure : direct exposure to intense sunlight and UV rays should be avoided for at least one week to prevent the appearance of spots or other skin reactions and to avoid product displacement.
Hydrate and care for the skin : it is recommended—but not mandatory—to apply a gentle moisturizing cream, and possibly a soothing cream, to help calm the skin.

Results of hyaluronic acid injections : what to expect ?

The results of hyaluronic acid injections vary depending on the treated area and the specific needs of each patient. Here is what you can expect for the different areas of the face.

The lips : the effect of hyaluronic acid injections in the lips is visible immediately, although swelling may last for a few days. The final result usually appears after about a week : the lips look plumper, more hydrated, and natural.
The cheeks : for cheek augmentation, the result is visible immediately, but it will be optimal after about two weeks, once the initial swelling has subsided.
The dark circles : the treatment of hollow under-eye circles provides an instant improvement, but the final result is generally visible after 2 to 3 weeks. For this delicate area, the disappearance of inflammation and the integration of the product require a slightly longer period.
The wrinkles, marionette lines, and nasolabial folds : results are visible immediately after the injection but may continue to improve slightly over the following weeks. The final result is a younger and more relaxed-looking face.
Facial contouring through lifting and enhancement techniques.

How long do hyaluronic acid injection results last ?

The duration of the results of a hyaluronic acid injection depends on several factors : the type of product used, the treated area, the patient’s metabolism, and the injection techniques. In general :

For mobile areas (such as lips), results may last 6 to 9 months.
For less mobile areas (such as cheeks or nasolabial folds), results may last 12 to 18 months.
For nearly immobile areas, results typically last between 12 and 36 months.

These durations are averages and may vary from one patient to another.

How to prolong the effects of hyaluronic acid injections ?

To prolong the effects of hyaluronic acid injections, it is recommended to :

Moisturize your skin regularly : hyaluronic acid is a moisturizing agent, and maintaining good hydration helps maximize its effects.
Protect your skin from the sun : UV rays can accelerate the degradation of hyaluronic acid. The use of sunscreen is therefore essential.
Avoid behaviors that accelerate skin aging : smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor lifestyle habits can reduce the duration of the results.
Schedule regular maintenance sessions.

The different types of hyaluronic acid injections and their timeframes for action

There are different types of hyaluronic acid injections, each with specific timeframes for visible results.

Superficial filling injections : used for fine lines and wrinkles, these injections are generally performed with a lightly cross-linked hyaluronic acid. The results are visible immediately or within a few hours after the injection but may continue to improve over the following days.
Deep volumizing injections : these injections, which use a denser and more cross-linked hyaluronic acid, aim to restore volume in areas such as the cheekbones or cheeks. The results are immediate and continue to improve within two weeks, as the product stabilizes and integrates perfectly into the tissues.
Deep hydration injections : designed to improve the skin’s quality and hydration, these injections are performed with a lightly cross-linked hyaluronic acid containing very fine particles. The effects are not immediately visible, or only slightly noticeable. Often, two sessions spaced six weeks apart are recommended.
The benefits appear progressively ,the skin becomes more radiant and hydrated over time.

How to choose the right type of hyaluronic acid injection ?

The doctor chooses the type of injection and hyaluronic acid based on several factors.

The condition of the skin : patients with superficial wrinkles or dehydrated skin will benefit from superficial injections or Skinboosters. Those with volume loss or deeper wrinkles will require deeper, volumizing injections.

Aesthetic expectations : some people seek subtle and natural results, while others desire a more noticeable change. The doctor will be able to advise you on the product and technique that best meet your expectations.
Budget and availability : the cost of a hyaluronic acid injection varies depending on the product used, the treated area, and the amount of product required.
The doctor's expertise .

Injection techniques and their impact on results

The results of hyaluronic acid injections can also be influenced by the technique used.

Needle injection : this is the classic method where hyaluronic acid is injected directly into wrinkles or hollow areas using a fine needle. This technique allows for great precision, particularly useful for small areas or fine lines. Swelling is often more localized, and the effect is immediate.
Cannula injection : hyaluronic acid is injected using a cannula (a blunt-tipped needle) instead of a sharp needle, allowing larger areas to be treated with fewer entry points and reducing the risk of bruising. The results are also visible quickly, with generally fewer bruises, although the swelling may be slightly more pronounced compared to the needle injection technique.

Realistic expectations after a hyaluronic acid injection

It is crucial to have realistic expectations regarding the results of hyaluronic acid injections. It is important to understand that :

Results vary from person to person : skin structure, age, metabolism, anatomy, and lifestyle habits (such as smoking or sun exposure) can all influence the speed and longevity of the results.
The results are not permanent : hyaluronic acid is a biodegradable product that is naturally absorbed by the body over time. Therefore, maintenance sessions (often once a year) are necessary to preserve the effects.
Multiple sessions may be necessary : in some cases, a second session may be required to optimize the outcome. During the initial consultation, the doctor will inform you of the number of sessions needed. Clear communication with the doctor is essential to tailor the treatment to the patient’s needs.

Patients testimonials and clinical studies on the effect of hyaluronic acid injections

Numerous clinical studies and patient testimonials confirm the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid injections for rejuvenating the skin and filling wrinkles. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed that more than 90% of patients were satisfied with the results after hyaluronic acid injections and that the effects were still visible 6 to 12 months after treatment.
Patient testimonials also reveal that although the results are generally visible immediately, their satisfaction increases even more after a few weeks, when the hyaluronic acid fully integrates into the skin tissues.

Recent innovations and trends in hyaluronic acid injections

The aesthetic-oriented medicine industry is constantly evolving, with innovations in hyaluronic acid–based products and injection techniques emerging regularly. Among the current trends are :

Hybrid products : some new formulations combine hyaluronic acid with other substances, such as vitamins or peptides, to optimize results. Dr. Romano, however, favors injections of pure hyaluronic acid.
“Light touch” treatments : these treatments consist of injecting small amounts of hyaluronic acid into several areas to achieve a subtle and natural result. This technique is becoming increasingly popular among younger patients who wish to prevent signs of aging without making a radical change to their appearance.
Preventive injections : more and more young adults, often starting in their twenties, are choosing hyaluronic acid injections not to correct visible signs of aging but to prevent them from appearing. Preventive injections help maintain the skin’s elasticity and hydration, thereby delaying the signs of aging.

What to expect after a hyaluronic acid injection ?

Hyaluronic acid injections are a proven and effective method to improve the appearance of the skin, reduce wrinkles, and restore facial volume. Results are often visible immediately but continue to improve in the days and weeks following the treatment. The key to success lies in choosing the right doctor, maintaining clear communication about expectations, and ensuring proper aftercare following the injection.
If you are in Geneva and considering hyaluronic acid injections, consult an experienced doctor who can guide you toward the best option according to your skin type and personal goals. Hyaluronic acid injections can help you regain radiant skin and a rejuvenated face — safely and with natural-looking results.

Article written by Dr Romano Valeria

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON

Aesthetic-oriented medical procedures in Geneva