How Long Will Restylane Last?

David Fuller

Last Updated On: August 14, 2025

If you’re considering Restylane for facial rejuvenation, one of the key factors to keep in mind is how long the results will last. Studies show that most hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers typically stay effective for 6 to 18 months, depending on the formula, treatment area, and individual factors like metabolism, lifestyle, and injection technique.

Restylane, a trusted name in HA-based fillers, is known for providing natural-looking results in areas like the lips, cheeks, and nasolabial folds. Its longevity is one of the major reasons it’s become a popular choice for those looking to refresh their appearance without committing to permanent changes.

In this article, we’ll dive into how long different Restylane products usually last, the factors that influence their duration, and some practical tips to help you get the most out of your treatment.

Key Takeaways

• The Restylane line consists of different formulations tailored for various treatment areas and aesthetic goals, which can impact longevity.
• Restylane-L typically lasts 9–12 months, while Restylane Silk lasts 6–9 months due to its softer texture.
• Restylane Lyft offers significant lifting power with results lasting 12–18 months, ideal for areas like cheeks and jawline.
• Restylane Refyne and Defyne have Optimal Balance Technology, designed to last 9–12 months while allowing natural movement with facial expressions.
• High-movement areas (like lips) see faster filler degradation, resulting in a lifespan of around 6–9 months, whereas low-movement areas (like cheeks) can last 12–18 months.
• Individual metabolic rates can affect how long results last, with faster metabolisms breaking down fillers more quickly.
• Research shows that Restylane fillers maintain noticeable improvement for varying durations, supported by robust clinical trials and practitioner feedback.
• Experienced injectors can enhance the longevity and natural appearance of results through tailored injection techniques and product selection.

About: Operating since 2016, Med Supply Solutions is known for being one of the industry’s top and trusted suppliers of cosmetic and viscosupplementation products. If you’re looking to buy Restylane online, contact our sales department for more information.  

Variations by Restylane Product Type

The Restylane family of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers is designed to meet a variety of aesthetic needs. It isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution; instead, it’s a collection of specialized products tailored to different treatment areas, goals, and patient needs. Each formula varies in terms of texture, cohesiveness, and lifting power, which directly affects how long the results will last. 

• Restylane-L: A versatile option for moderate facial folds and general volume restoration. Its balanced consistency ensures a smooth integration into the skin while still providing the necessary structural support. Most patients can expect results to last for 6–12 months, with the nasolabial folds and marionette lines typically maintaining results for about 9–12 months.
  
• Restylane Silk: Designed for precision, Silk is ideal for enhancing the lips and correcting fine lines. Its ultra-smooth gel creates a soft, natural-looking finish, making it perfect for the delicate skin of the lips. The most common visible effect in the lips is noticeable for around 6 months, though it can last up to 12 months in some cases.
  
• Restylane Lyft: As the most robust option in the Restylane range, Lyft is perfect for providing significant lift to areas like the cheeks, jawline, and chin. Its firmer gel structure provides long-lasting contour definition. Results generally last 12–18 months, with the upper end of this range typically seen in low-movement areas like the cheeks.
  
• Restylane Refyne & Defyne: These two formulations, created with Optimal Balance Technology (OBT), are specially designed to move with the face’s natural expressions. Refyne is better for softer folds, while Defyne is ideal for deeper lines. Both formulations typically last 9–12 months, maintaining smooth results in areas prone to frequent movement, like smile lines and nasolabial folds.

Anatomical Site and Metabolism Effects Influencing How Long Restylane Will Last

When it comes to the longevity of Restylane, the treatment area plays a significant role. Different facial zones experience varying levels of movement, blood flow, and tissue density, all of which influence how quickly the body breaks down the hyaluronic acid filler. In addition, individual biological factors, including metabolism, also affect the duration of results.

• High-movement Areas: Areas like the lips, smile lines, and perioral wrinkles are in constant motion from speaking, eating, and making facial expressions. This continuous movement accelerates the breakdown of hyaluronic acid, so results in these areas generally last 6–9 months. While rare, some patients may experience results that last up to 12 months, especially with careful treatment and lifestyle habits.
  
• Low-movement Areas: Regions such as the cheeks, tear troughs, and temples experience less mechanical stress, which allows the filler to remain more stable for an extended period. Here, volume restoration and contouring effects can last from 12–18 months, with the longer duration seen in areas with minimal movement. However, 18 months is an ideal scenario and may not be common in all patients.
  
• Metabolism: People with a faster metabolism may break down hyaluronic acid more quickly, leading to a shorter duration of results, even in areas typically known for longer-lasting effects.
  
• Skin Quality: Skin that is thicker, well-hydrated, and has strong collagen support can integrate the filler more effectively, improving durability and providing a smoother, longer-lasting finish.

While anatomical placement and personal biology play crucial roles in how long Restylane lasts, all fillers will gradually be metabolized by the body. Even the longest-lasting formulations will eventually need maintenance to preserve optimal results.

Clinical Trial and Real-World Data on How Long Restylane Lasts

The longevity of Restylane is backed by both clinical trials and real-world data. Studies consistently demonstrate that Restylane products deliver durable and effective results, although duration can vary based on the specific product used and the treatment area.

• Restylane Lyft in Cheeks: Multiple studies and trials have shown that patients maintain noticeable improvement at 12 months, with some individuals enjoying effects lasting up to 18 months. Its firmer gel structure and deep placement contribute to this extended duration.
  
• Restylane Silk in Lips: Clinical trials reveal that most patients experience visible enhancement for around 6 months, correlating with the softer gel designed for delicate, high-movement lip tissue.
  
• Restylane Refyne and Defyne in Nasolabial Folds: These formulations, engineered for flexibility and support in dynamic facial zones, typically provide 9–12 months of wrinkle reduction, according to controlled trials.
  
• Real-world Outcomes: Experienced injectors can often extend the longevity of Restylane fillers by utilizing precise injection techniques, choosing the optimal product variant for each patient’s anatomy, and customizing treatment depth. This personalized approach often results in longer-lasting, natural-looking results than those observed in controlled studies.
  
• Consistent Follow-ups: Both clinical trials and routine aesthetic practice emphasize the predictable performance of Restylane across patient populations, affirming its reputation for durable and safe volume restoration.

Understanding these clinical and real-life data points helps patients and providers set realistic expectations when deciding on treatment plans and maintenance schedules.

Practical Considerations & Maintenance for Restylane’s Longevity

Maximizing the longevity of your Restylane treatment requires careful planning and regular maintenance. Most patients benefit from touch-up sessions every 9–12 months to maintain volume and youthful contours. Scheduling maintenance sessions early allows practitioners to address any volume loss before it becomes noticeable, keeping results fresh and natural. Understanding what Restylane is and how it works can help you set realistic expectations for your treatment timeline.

• Lifestyle Habits: Factors like smoking, excessive sun exposure, and rapid weight fluctuations can accelerate the breakdown of hyaluronic acid. By maintaining healthy habits, patients can slow down skin aging and preserve the longevity of their Restylane treatment.
  
• Hydration: Since hyaluronic acid retains water to create volume and plumpness, staying hydrated is crucial for enhancing the filler’s effects. Drinking plenty of water promotes skin elasticity, complementing the results achieved through Restylane.
  
• Choosing a Skilled Injector: The technique of the injector plays a significant role in the longevity of results. Skilled injectors can achieve optimal outcomes by selecting the right Restylane formulation, administering the filler at the correct depth, and ensuring precise technique.

Together, these steps help patients achieve extended, natural-looking results while making the most of their Restylane treatment.

Conclusion

The question of how long Restylane lasts varies based on several factors, including the specific product, the treatment area, and individual patient factors like metabolism and skin quality. On average, results can last anywhere from 6 months to 18 months, with the longest-lasting effects typically found in low-movement areas. 

By understanding Restlyane’s duration, working with an experienced provider, and following proper maintenance practices, patients can enjoy lasting, natural rejuvenation without the need for frequent touch-ups.

FAQs

1. Does Restylane last longer than Juvederm?

Longevity varies by formulation and area. Some Restylane products, like Lyft, can match or exceed Juvederm’s duration in structural areas.

2. Can I make Restylane last longer?

Yes. Good skincare, sun protection, and healthy lifestyle habits can help preserve results.

3. Will Restylane dissolve naturally?

Yes. Over time, the body metabolizes the hyaluronic acid. This process is gradual and safe.

4. Can Restylane be removed early?

Yes. If needed, hyaluronidase can dissolve the filler quickly and safely under professional supervision.

References

Rzepniewski PT, Zatorski T, Nowak A, et al. Longevity of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers – current state of knowledge. Dermatology Review. 2024;111(1):47-51. doi:10.5114/dr.2024.140797

Bell T, Kelso K. Hyaluronic acid filler longevity, migration, diagnosis and implications in clinical practice. Journal of Aesthetic Nursing. 2022;11(Sup2):S20-S24. doi:10.12968/joan.2022.11.sup2.s20