The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the Juvéderm gel family of products, a 'next generation' of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers that provide a smooth, long-lasting correction of facial wrinkles and folds. Juvéderm is natural, biodegradable and currently the only approved hyaluronic acid dermal filler that has demonstrated its safety and effectiveness in patients of all skin types and colors. It also is the only hyaluronic acid dermal filler developed using a proprietary, technologically advanced manufacturing process that results in a malleable smooth gel that flows easily into the skin, creating a smooth, natural look and feel. All other currently approved hyaluronic acid dermal fillers utilize a gel particle suspension formulation. The Juvéderm family of products offers the highest concentration of cross-linked hyaluronic acid available in a dermal filler, which results in a long duration of effect and may be attributed to the majority of patients not requiring touch-ups following their initial treatment. The smooth consistency of the Juvéderm formula also may help to minimize the discomfort that can sometimes occur during the injection procedure. The FDA approved three different formulations for Juvéderm providing physicians with the flexibility to tailor each treatment to the particular needs of the patient. The three product formulations include: Juvéderm 24HV, a highly cross-linked formulation for more versatility in contouring and volumizing of facial wrinkles and folds; Juvéderm 30HV, a more highly cross-linked robust formulation for volumizing and correction of deeper folds and wrinkles; and Juvéderm 30, a highly cross-linked formulation for subtle correction of facial wrinkles and folds. Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers represent the fastest growing non-invasive aesthetic procedure in the United States. Occurring naturally in the body, hyaluronic acid is a natural complex sugar found in all living organisms and creates volume and elasticity in the skin. Juvéderm adds volume to facial wrinkles, such as nasolabial folds (the folds running from the sides of the bottom of the nose to the outer corners of the mouth). Hyaluronic acid treats multiple medical conditions, including those associated with the eye and the knee, and has been used for more than 20 years. In clinical studies, adverse events were usually mild to moderate in nature, did not require intervention and lasted seven days or less. The most common side effects included temporary injection site reactions including redness, pain/tenderness, firmness, swelling, lumps and bumps and bruising. CLICK HERE to view the Aloha Dermatology and Laser Center's Injectable Enhancement Comparison Page. CLICK HERE to view the Aloha Dermatology and Laser Center's Dermal Filler Safety page.