Two people can point at the same line on their face and need completely different advice. Some lines come from repeated muscle movement. Others come from lost volume or changes in the skin itself. Knowing which is which is the first step in deciding whether dermal fillers are worth considering at all.
Lines caused by movement
Frown lines, forehead lines and crow’s feet usually start as dynamic lines. They appear when you frown, raise your eyebrows or smile, and fade when your face is at rest. Over the years some of them stay visible at rest too. Filler is not usually the first answer for these, because the line is driven by movement rather than by missing volume. The options for movement lines are covered at a lines and wrinkles consultation.
Lines caused by volume loss
With age, the face loses fat and bone support. Cheeks flatten, the folds from nose to mouth deepen, and lips thin. These are static changes: they are there whether you move or not. This is where dermal fillers can help. Most use hyaluronic acid, give a visible change straight away, and last from several months to over a year depending on the product and the area.
How to tell which you have
- The line appears with expression and fades at rest: probably movement.
- The line or hollow is there at rest: probably volume loss or skin changes.
- Both: common, especially from the mid-forties onwards. The plan then depends on which bothers you most.
Skin quality plays a part too. Fine, crepey lines across a wide area often reflect hydration and elasticity rather than movement or volume. Treatments such as Profhilo or chemical peels are aimed at that.
Staying safe
Dermal fillers are a medical treatment and should be given by a qualified, regulated clinician after a proper assessment. Over-filling is a common reason results look unnatural, so a conservative approach matters. Explore our non-surgical treatments or book a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a line is caused by movement or volume loss?
Look at it with your face at rest. If it mostly disappears, it is likely driven by movement. If it is still there, volume loss or skin changes are likely to be involved. Many people have a mix, which is why the cause is assessed at consultation.
Can dermal fillers treat frown lines and crow’s feet?
Not usually as a first choice. These lines are mainly caused by movement, and filler adds volume rather than changing movement. Filler is sometimes used for deep lines that stay visible at rest, after an assessment.
How long do dermal fillers last?
Results vary by product and area, but commonly last from several months to over a year. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved if needed.
Will I look natural?
The aim is a natural result, which depends on a conservative approach and on treating the right cause. Over-filling is a common reason results look unnatural.
This article is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice. Results vary between patients and all treatments carry risks. Always discuss your circumstances with a qualified, GMC-registered clinician.
