Calcium hydroxylapatite is the heaviest of facial dermal fillers. This substance, which is found naturally in human bones, is a mineral-like compound. It's often used to fill the moderate-to-severe creases such as nasolabial folds, marionette lines and frown lines. It's also used to enhance fullness of the cheeks and other facial contours.

Calcium-based microspheres are suspended in a water-based gel to form calcium hydroxylapatite. This dermal filler was first used in dentistry and reconstructive surgery and has a long safety record.

Like some of the other semi-permanent dermal fillers, calcium hydroxylapatite contains small particles that act as a scaffold. Your own collagen then grows on that scaffold. Over time, the particles are slowly dissolved into calcium and phosphate ions through normal metabolic processes.

Calcium hydroxylapatite is biosynthetically produced, which means that no animals or animal products are used. This lowers your risk of an allergic reaction and no skin testing is required.

This type of dermal filler is known to produce a very natural result, doesn't migrate, and side effects are rare.

Calcium hydroxylapatite has another, special use for HIV-positive people who suffer from facial lipoatrophy, also known as facial wasting, which is a side effect of antiretroviral medications.