Unveiling the Secrets of Anti-Aging Injectables

September 24, 2024 Injectables

In the quest for eternal youth — or at least a more youthful appearance — anti-aging injectables have become the cornerstone of modern cosmetic treatments. At De La Belle Wellness & Spa, we understand that navigating the world of injectables might be overwhelming, so we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide of everything you need to know to achieve and maintain the best possible results.

Injectables 101

Injectables are primarily used to reduce the appearance of lines, wrinkles and other signs of aging. However, there are two main types of injectables you should be aware of: dermal fillers and neuromodulators. Here’s a quick overview of these different injectables and what they treat.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are used to replace volume lost due to aging. They are generally made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance responsible for keeping our skin smooth and supple. Some brands, such as Radiesse, use calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) instead to add volume and stimulate collagen production for long-term rejuvenation.

When injected into targeted areas, dermal fillers add fullness to reduce the appearance of static lines and wrinkles, which are visible when the face is at rest. They provide a soft and natural look and can be combined with other treatments as needed.

Dermal fillers provide instant results and are used to reduce the signs of aging, enhance facial contours and even plump up the lips. The effects can last anywhere from six to 12 months, depending on the type of filler used and the area treated. Fillers such as Juvéderm, Restylane, Radiesse and Revanesse Versa are popular due to their versatility and effectiveness. With no downtime, patients can continue with their daily activities shortly after treatment.

At De La Belle, we carry Juvéderm, Restylane, Radiesse and Revanesse Versa.

Neuromodulators

Neuromodulators, also known as wrinkle relaxers or neurotoxins, work a bit differently than dermal fillers. Instead of restoring lost volume to treat the signs of aging, neuromodulators target the muscles that cause facial lines and wrinkles to appear with every expression you make. When injected beneath the skin, they reduce muscle activity to prevent the formation of dynamic wrinkles, which are the lines that you see when you frown, squint or smile. As these muscles relax, the surface of the skin smooths out for a more youthful appearance.

This temporary reduction in muscle activity not only helps in softening existing lines but also prevents new wrinkles from forming. The effects of neuromodulators like Botox, Xeomin and Jeuveau typically last between three to four months, after which repeat treatments are needed to maintain the results. These treatments are quick, often taking just a few minutes, and the results can be seen within a few days, making them a convenient option for those seeking to refresh their look with minimal downtime.

At De La Belle, the neuromodulators we offer include Botox, Xeomin and Jeuveau.

Treatment Areas

Neuromodulators and dermal fillers are incredibly versatile treatments, offering personalized solutions for various facial concerns. Understanding the different treatment areas for each type of injectable can help you determine the best approach for your anti-aging needs.

Neuromodulators: Dynamic Wrinkles

  • Forehead Lines: Commonly treated with neuromodulators, these are the horizontal lines that appear whenever you raise your eyebrows.
  • Crow’s Feet: Located at the outer corners of the eyes, these fan-like wrinkles develop from squinting or smiling and are effectively treated with neuromodulators.
  • Frown Lines: Also known as the “11s” between the eyebrows, these are particularly responsive to neuromodulators, helping to soften the appearance of deep furrows caused by frowning.
  • Neck & Jawline: When injected into the neck or jawline, neuromodulators can smooth away wrinkles and provide a lifting effect to rejuvenate your appearance.
  • Bunny Lines: These wrinkles appear on each side of the nose when it’s scrunched up and can be minimized with Botox or Jeuveau.
  • Chin Dimples: Also known as a “pebbly chin,” chin dimples can be smoothed away with Botox injections without affecting your smile or other facial expressions.
  • Lip Flip: Neuromodulators can also be used to relax the muscles in the upper lip, giving the illusion of increased fullness. This is known as the lip flip, and is becoming one of our most requested procedures! Are you team lip flip or lip filler?

Dermal Fillers: Volume Loss & Static Wrinkles

  • Nasolabial Folds: These lines run from the side of the nose to the corners of the mouth. Fillers can plump these areas, diminishing the depth of the folds.
  • Marionette Lines: Extending out from the corners of the mouth, these lines can give the mouth a sad, downturned appearance. Fillers can restore volume in this area, creating a more youthful and cheerful expression.
  • Cheek Enhancement: Age-related volume loss in the cheeks can be reversed with fillers, providing a lift that can indirectly smooth out other areas of the face.
  • Lip Enhancement: Fillers can add volume to thinning lips, define the lip line, or reduce the appearance of wrinkles around the mouth.
  • Dark Circles: If you’re bothered by dark circles beneath the eyes, dermal fillers can add volume to the tear troughs to reduce shadows and restore a more vibrant look.

Both neuromodulators and dermal fillers can be used in combination to achieve more comprehensive results, addressing both dynamic and static wrinkles while restoring facial volume. This multifaceted approach allows for a customized treatment plan that targets specific areas of concern, rejuvenating your look and emphasizing your best features.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Injectables

After receiving your dermal filler or neuromodulator injections, there are some essential do’s and don’ts you should follow to ensure optimal results.

Do:

  • Consult with a professional to ensure that your treatment plan is tailored to your needs and performed by a qualified provider.
  • Adhere to any specific aftercare instructions provided by our team to maximize the benefits of treatment and reduce possible side effects like bruising or swelling.
  • Keep your head upright for at least four hours after your treatment to prevent your injectable from migrating to other areas.
  • Apply ice to treated areas as directed by your provider to reduce bruising and swelling.
  • Drink plenty of water before and after treatment to help your skin recover and maintain its elasticity.

Don’t:

  • Do not rub or massage the treated areas for at least 24 hours after your treatment — doing so could cause the product to migrate or spread, impacting your final results.
  • Don’t exercise strenuously for at least 12 hours —this can contribute to bruising or swelling and cause the injectable to migrate away from the intended areas.
  • Do not soak in a sauna, sunbathe or take a hot shower until the next day, as intense heat can cause irritation and increase potential side effects.
  • Don’t forget when it’s time for a touch-up treatment. Regular appointments can help you maintain a refreshed, youthful appearance all year long.

Combining Treatments for Optimal Results

Often, a combination of different types of injectables can achieve the best and most comprehensive results. For instance, Botox, Xeomin or Jeuveau can target dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions, like crow’s feet or frown lines, while dermal fillers like Juvéderm, Restylane, Radiesse or Revanesse Versa can provide a plumping or lifting effect to smooth away static wrinkles that are always visible.

Injectables can also be used alongside other skin care treatments, such as IPL, chemical peels and facials. Other popular options include Scarlet SRF microneedling for acne scars, sun damage or an uneven skin tone, and the Subnovii Plasma Pen for refreshing your appearance and erasing deeper lines or wrinkles that can be hard to treat. The right approach may vary depending on your unique needs and goals, but our experienced team can recommend the most suitable options during your consultation.

Ready to Turn Back the Clock?

If you’re ready to explore the possibilities of anti-aging injectables and want to see if Jeuveau, Botox or Juvederm are right for you, contact De La Belle Wellness & Spa today. We’re here to help you navigate your options and design a treatment plan that aligns perfectly with your vision of youthful beauty. Call our Memphis office at 901-459-3338 or book online to get started!