Did you know that many of the visible signs of aging result from a loss of volume in the face? Over time, facial tissues thin out. This makes fine lines and wrinkles more apparent. Fortunately, it is possible to restore some of this lost volume with dermal fillers and injectables.
In this post, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of injectables like Botox and Juvéderm, what you need to know about each, and how to find the option that’s right for you.
What are Injectable Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Gel Fillers?
As the name implies, HA gel filler injectables are natural, hydrating, gel-like substances designed for injection beneath the skin. A doctor, dermatologist, or nurse specialist can place them anywhere in the face.
HA fillers rejuvenate mild to severe soft facial tissue and bone-loss-related changes. Placed superficially, HA gel fillers smooth fine lines around the mouth. Placed deeply, they correct bone structure changes in the face, chin, or cheeks. In most applications, they enhance facial contours and facial features.
Safe, effective, and minimally invasive (like laser cosmetics) injectable fillers are a common cosmetic procedure. Millions of men and women opt for facial rejuvenation treatment each year.
Compared to cosmetic surgery and similar procedures, facial rejuvenation treatment is also a cost-effective way to restore your youth and confidence - with minimal discomfort and no downtime.
What Problem Areas Do Injectables Treat?
HA fillers are an effective treatment for a wide variety of concerns. Additionally, injectables can do everything from plumping lips to decreasing wrinkles around the eyes, forehead, and mouth.
Here are a few of the most popular uses for injectables:
Fine lines and wrinkles around the nose and mouth
Diminished volume in the cheeks or temples
Vertical lip lines
Diminished lip volume
Chin creases and lines
Decreased symmetry of facial features
And more
If you’re interested in injectables as an anti-aging treatment, talk to your plastic surgeon, dermatologist, or nurse specialist about your areas of concern. They’ll be able to help you understand the various options, and also whether injectables are the right treatment for you.
What are the Most Popular Injectables?
While there are many injectable products on the market, some of the most popular include Botox and Juvéderm®. Botox® remains the most popular wrinkle treatment on the market.
Here’s a brief breakdown of each:
Botox 101
Botox is a neuromodulator (a form of botulinum toxin type A). Using an ultra-fine needle, a professional injects this treatment into the skin. Botox works by blocking the nerve signals that allow facial muscles to contract, which is what causes fine lines and wrinkles.
Once injected, Botox relaxes the muscles in the target area. This decreases their movement. It also reduces the appearance of wrinkles and lines in the area. Patients generally see results within 3-7 days of the injection.
From a cosmetic standpoint, Botox injections are highly popular. The treatment is entirely non-surgical. It also does not require any special after-care or recovery time. Plus, the results are subtle and natural-looking.
Juvéderm
Juvederm is another popular injectable option. Referred to as a “filler,” Juvederm is especially effective at restoring facial contours and improving the overall tone and texture of the skin.
According to the American Academy of Facial Esthetics:
Juvéderm is a soft but stable injectable gel made of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the skin. It assists in adding hydration and volume....
The Juvéderm dermal filler treatment process is very quick (about 15 minutes) with immediate results. Downtime is minimal and you can get back to your normal routine right away. The Food and Drug Administration approved Juvéderm in 2006 as the only hyaluronic acid filler that will last up to one year.
One of the reasons Juvéderm is so popular is that it is a supple gel. The consistency of the gel adapts to the natural contours of the face. This provides a very refined, natural-looking appearance. Additionally, Juvederm is a long-lasting treatment. In addition to looking subtle, results also last an average of 6-9 months.
Here’s what Kirsten Svennungsen, NP, a nationally certified Nurse Practitioner at Laser Cosmetic Center, has to say about filler treatments around the lip and mouth area:
“Lips and lines around the mouth are some of my favorite areas to provide dermal filler injections. I care that patients I treat will not appear ‘augmented.’ As we all have seen, treating the lip area will be transformative - for better or worse. I am grateful to have learned from talented injectors from Sweden, Brazil, and the United States. These injection professionals taught me how to provide incredible results to our community here in Northwest Montana. I enjoy helping patients improve this delicate area.”
Laser Cosmetic Center: Your Trusted Destination for Injectables and more
While injectables are generally safe, non-invasive treatments, it’s also essential that the person you choose to administer them is experienced and skilled. After all, these treatments work by immobilizing and relaxing muscles in the treatment area, and you want to make sure the muscles you’re targeting are the correct ones.
Here at Laser Cosmetic Center, we specialize in cosmetic injectables to help our clients look and feel their best. Whether you’re new to the practice of utilizing injectables or an experienced connoisseur looking for an experienced and popular aesthetician, our team is here for you.
If you’re interested in how injectables can help you look and feel your best, here’s how Kirsten Svennungsen, recommends preparing for your appointment:
“In preparation for a scheduled lip treatment appointment avoid any optional blood-thinning medications and supplements 2 weeks prior. Limit alcohol intake the day before your appointment. On the day of your appointment, apply the provided frozen gel pad as directed. We also recommend you avoid exercising, and prolonged heat exposure from hot tubs, saunas, etc. Follow up with us 2-4 weeks post-treatment for an evaluation of your treatment results. It is not uncommon for a patient to look at their results compared to their ‘before’ treatment photos and be amazed at how much better their area of concern looks while blending harmoniously with their other features.”
Ready to book your first appointment? Contact us today.