Skin-Filler Serums Are Everywhere, But Do They Actually Do Anything?

If you're a skincare enthusiast, you love trying the many different products out on the market to see which ones are worth the hype and which ones fall flat. Finding a product that's like Botox in a bottle is every skincare junkies dream, but most wonder whether such a product even exists. Cosmetic procedures like Botox and filler are extremely popular among those looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but if going under the needle isn't for you, there's a new facial serum that's creating buzz.

Filler serums are an alternative to fillers and claim to have the same effect as the beloved cosmetic procedure. They come with plumping ingredients that work to tighten and firm the skin just like Botox or filler would. Board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology, Corey L. Hartman, tells PopSugar, "Most filler serums work by using ingredients in a smaller molecular size that can penetrate to deeper layers of the skin, where they can work more effectively and for a longer duration."

Hyaluronic acid is a popular ingredient that's in most serum fillers, and is one of the key ingredients that works to tighten and plump skin. According to Cleveland Clinic, hyaluronic acid works to stretch the skin while also helping to smooth out the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Although many people swear by filler serums, not all experts are buying into the hype. Double board-certified adult pediatric and cosmetic dermatologist Karan Lal tells PopSugar, "[N]othing applied topically is going to fill your face."

What serum fillers can do is temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while tightening your face for a youthful glow. For a serum filler to have the same effect as injectables, it would have to penetrate your skin instead of being applied topically. With Botox and hyaluronic acid fillers, your doctor is able to target specific areas of your skin and provide you with personalized treatment. Serum fillers can't do that.

Carmen Castilla, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, tells Real Simple, "Fillers with different properties are utilized when targeting different problem areas. Some areas you need a harder filler to get results, whereas other areas you'd want to use a more flexible filler." As long as you're not looking to completely replace your regular Botox or filler appointments, skin-filler serums can be a great skincare staple to use to give you a smooth, tight, and soft appearance. 

We recommend trying Shiseido's Japanese Hyaluronic Acid Serum if you're looking to invest in a high-quality skin-filler serum. This serum uses hyaluronic acid molecules to plump up your skin's volume and give you a hydrated, fresh-faced glow. When you're out shopping for a new skin-filler serum, look for products that contain hyaluronic acid, peptides, vitamin C, and niacinamide. Each of these ingredients work to moisturize and tighten the skin to give you the best anti-aging results possible.