Dermal fillers are a leading option for facial rejuvenation, with Restylane and Juvederm being two of the most trusted brands on the market. Both are made with hyaluronic acid to restore volume and smooth lines — but when it comes to choosing the most refined option, we often recommend Restylane for its more advanced technology and lower hydrophilicity, which allows for more precise, natural-looking results.
Here’s how these two industry leaders compare — and why Restylane tends to come out on top in our expert opinion.
What Are Restylane and Juvederm?
Both Restylane and Juvederm are FDA-approved hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers used to soften lines, restore volume, and enhance facial features like lips, cheeks, and tear troughs. Treatments are non-surgical, quick, and require minimal downtime.
While both use HA gel, Restylane’s newer-generation formulas are designed to integrate more subtly with the tissue, offering more structure and control. This makes it an excellent option for sculpting delicate areas like the under-eyes or lips, where excess water attraction (hydrophilicity) can lead to puffiness — something Juvederm is more prone to in our clinical experience.
Where Can They Be Used?
Juvederm is commonly used for:
-
Lip enhancement
-
Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
-
Marionette lines
-
Cheek volume
-
Under-eye hollowing
Restylane is frequently used for:
-
Lip enhancement
-
Tear troughs (under-eye area)
-
Nasolabial folds
-
Cheeks
-
Hands
-
Fine lines around the mouth
Our opinion: We particularly prefer Restylane for under-eyes, lips, and fine lines due to its precision and reduced swelling, which results in a more refined outcome.
How Long Do Results Last?
-
Juvederm: Immediate results that typically last 12 to 24 months, depending on the product and area.
-
Restylane: Results appear within days and can last 6 to 18 months, although newer formulations often approach the longevity of Juvederm.
Though Juvederm may last slightly longer in some areas, Restylane’s results age more subtly, which many clients prefer for a more natural fade.
Treatment Time and Downtime
Both treatments take 15 to 60 minutes depending on the number of areas. There’s no downtime, and you can return to normal activities right after your appointment.
Pain and Comfort
Both fillers usually contain lidocaine, a local anaesthetic to reduce discomfort. The procedure is well-tolerated, with most clients reporting only mild pressure or stinging.
Which Filler Works Faster?
-
Juvederm: Immediate plumping effect.
-
Restylane: Results appear quickly, often within a few days, but with less risk of post-treatment swelling.
We find that Restylane offers a more predictable settling phase, especially for precise areas like the tear troughs.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Both fillers are suitable for adults over 18 seeking facial rejuvenation. However, you should avoid either filler if you:
-
Have allergies to hyaluronic acid or lidocaine
-
Have a history of anaphylaxis
-
Are on blood-thinning medications
-
Have bleeding disorders
-
Are prone to excessive scarring or hyperpigmentation
Side Effects and Safety
Both are considered safe in experienced hands. Common temporary side effects include:
-
Swelling
-
Redness
-
Bruising
-
Tenderness
-
Itching
Rare risks include:
-
Lumps or nodules
-
Infection
-
Skin discoloration
-
Vascular occlusion (very rare)
-
Temporary numbness (more common with Juvederm)
Restylane vs Juvederm: Summary Comparison
|
Feature |
Restylane |
Juvederm |
|
Type |
Hyaluronic acid filler |
Hyaluronic acid filler |
|
Procedure Time |
15 to 60 minutes |
15 to 60 minutes |
|
Results Visible |
Within a few days |
Immediate |
|
Duration |
6 to 18 months |
12 to 24 months |
|
Contains Lidocaine |
Some formulas |
Yes |
|
Common Uses |
Lips, tear troughs, fine lines, hands |
Lips, cheeks, folds, under-eyes |
|
Cost per Syringe |
£300–£650 |
£500–£700 |
|
Downtime |
None |
None |
|
Hydrophilicity |
Lower (less swelling, better definition) |
Higher (can retain more water) |
|
Risk of Numbness |
Very rare |
Rare |
Final Thoughts
At Injectual, we offer both Juvederm and Restylane — but we tend to recommend Restylane in most cases due to its refined technology, natural finish, and better tissue integration. For clients who want defined, elegant results without excess puffiness, Restylane is often our go-to.
Choosing the right filler is never one-size-fits-all. Our expert practitioners will guide you based on your anatomy, goals, and lifestyle.
Book your consultation today to discover the most refined version of you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which filler lasts longer?
Juvederm may last longer in some areas, but Restylane’s fade tends to be more natural, especially in delicate regions like the under-eyes.
Can I switch between the two?
Yes. Our practitioners often alternate between fillers depending on your skin’s needs and past response.
Are these treatments safe for all skin tones?
Yes, both are safe across all Fitzpatrick skin types when performed by trained professionals.
Can dermal fillers be reversed?
Yes. Both can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if needed.
How do I choose between them?
We’ll help you decide during your consultation. Restylane is often preferred for patients wanting subtle, sculpted results.
Can I combine fillers with Botox?
Yes. Botox and fillers work well together to treat both volume loss and dynamic wrinkles.
What if I have sensitive skin?
Both fillers are well-tolerated, but always share your allergy or sensitivity history with your provider.
Do I need to prepare for treatment?
Avoid alcohol and blood thinners 24 hours beforehand. Follow our pre-treatment advice for best results.
Can I get fillers while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. Fillers are not recommended during pregnancy or lactation due to insufficient safety data.
How do I choose the right provider?
Look for a medically qualified, experienced injector. At Injectual, your care is in the hands of expert practitioners who understand facial anatomy and aesthetics.
