What are flash fillers, and who should get them?
Everything you need to know about the new, low-commitment injectable trend
What if cosmetic tweaks came with a trial period–like borrowing a designer dress or test-driving a car? Enter flash fillers, the latest aesthetic innovation offering just that: plumper lips or a refreshed look that lasts days, not months.
Designed for the tweakment-curious, the cautious, or those prepping for a moment in the spotlight, these ultra-temporary fillers are creating a buzz among beauty insiders. Whether you're toying with the idea of injectables or simply craving a subtle glow-up for a special occasion, flash fillers might just be the low-commitment beauty fix you've been waiting for.
What exactly are flash fillers?
As the name suggests, these are fillers designed to dissolve within five to seven days, offering a quick, commitment-free enhancement. “This is a new concept that’s beginning to spark curiosity among both practitioners and patients,” says aesthetic doctor Joney De Souza. “They’re hyaluronic acid-based and offer a sort of ‘trial run’ for those who are hesitant to go all in.”
What ingredients are used, and how are they administered?
Flash fillers use a lower molecular weight hyaluronic acid – the same skin-plumping molecule found in longer-lasting fillers, but with a lighter, more transient structure. “They work similarly to skin boosters,” says Dr De Souza, “but are tailored for lip or facial enhancement rather than overall hydration." Administered like any other filler (via injection), they often take less than 15 minutes. Quick in, quick out.
What are the benefits over longer-term fillers?
Their biggest selling point? A short shelf life. “Flash fillers can be particularly appealing for first-timers who are anxious about committing to a longer-lasting result,” says Dr De Souza.
Think of them as the injectable equivalent of a make-up trial before your wedding day.
They’re also perfect for anyone after a one-off boost for an event. “With the variety of fillers available today, we can easily tailor the result to each individual’s goals,” says Dr Marco Nicoloso, medical director at Ouronyx. “Some patients want a fuller pout, others just want better definition. Flash fillers offer a flexible, short-term way to achieve that.”
What results can you expect?
Don’t expect a full makeover as flash fillers offer a soft, hydrated look and a subtlety that traditional fillers can sometimes lack. “They work best as a gentle enhancement, or a preview of what a longer-lasting filler could look like,” Dr De Souza explains.
If you’re after dramatic volume or reshaping, this isn’t your treatment. “Most of my clients now want subtle enhancements; just enough to define the lip line or restore lost volume,” says Dr Nicoloso. “The goal is elegance, not exaggeration.”
Are there any side effects?
Short answer: yes – but fewer than you might think. Mild swelling or bruising is common, and the fillers generally dissolve on their own without intervention. That said, aesthetic practitioner Natali Kelly has some words of warning: “Even though flash fillers dissolve faster, the risks are still present,” she says. “Bruising, infection, or vascular complications can still occur, especially when treatments are performed by underqualified injectors.”
The UK’s aesthetic industry is still largely unregulated making due diligence paramount. “Anyone can technically buy dermal fillers online,” says Dr Nicoloso. “A recent survey by the British College of Aesthetic Medicine found that 82 per cent of doctors treated complications from other providers. That’s staggering.”
Who can and can’t use them?
If you’re generally healthy and not pregnant or breastfeeding, you’re free to give it a try but always consult with a licensed medical professional first. “These fillers aren’t suitable for everyone,” says Kelly. “It’s important to have a consultation to ensure you’re medically and psychologically suitably for the treatment.”
If you’ve had bad filler experiences before, flash fillers might even offer a gentler return. “Many patients come to us wanting to dissolve previous fillers due to overfilling or asymmetry,” adds Dr Nicoloso. “Flash fillers give you the option to experiment with minimal commitment.”
Where can you get flash fillers?
These aren't yet as ubiquitous as traditional fillers, but high-end clinics in cities like London and LA are starting to offer them. Currently, the following practitioners offer flash fillers:
• Dr Ross Perry, medical director of Cosmedics skin clinics specialises in minor skin surgeries and non-surgical cosmetic treatments. He is renowned for his expertise in mole removal and natural-looking aesthetic procedures.
• Dr Joney de Souza offers a bespoke service, focusing on each patient's individual needs. He has become renowned for his emphasis on natural results and flawless finishes.
• Beautiful clinic aesthetics aside, Dr Ducu has a wealth of experience in creating and maintaining flawless faces.
Lead Image: Pexels
This article originally appeared on Harper'sBazaar.com
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