Choosing the Right Dermal Fillers and Injectables: Before & After
As we age, our faces lose volume, which can lead to wrinkles, lines, and a loss of that youthful plumpness. Maybe you’ve noticed a dip under your eyes, or a line forming between your brows that wasn’t there before. Enter dermal fillers and injectables: injectable solutions that can restore volume, smooth wrinkles, and sculpt your facial features.
But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right injectable? Buckle up, because we’re diving deep into the world of dermal fillers and injectables, from what they are to how to pick the perfect one for your unique face.
1. Understanding Dermal Fillers and Injectables
Dermal fillers and injectables are like tiny pillows and muscle relaxers for your skin. They come in various types, plumping up areas that have lost volume, creating a smoother, more youthful appearance:
Hyaluronic Acid (HA): This superstar ingredient in filler is naturally found in your skin, so it’s great for adding subtle volume and hydration, tackling wrinkles, and plumping lips. At Simply Bliss, we offer a wide variety of filler options that can be customized to your needs.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA): Think of this as a longer-lasting filler option for sculpting and defining cheekbones and jawlines. It’s important to note that this type of filler is not meant for softer areas like the lips or the eyes.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA): This filler stimulates your own collagen production, offering natural-looking results that improve deep wrinkles and folds over time. Try out Sculptra to restore volume and facial rejuvenation!
Botulinum Toxin Type A: This neurotoxin comes from the fermentation of the Hall strain of Clostridium botulinum bacteria. When used in small amounts, it’s a great injectable to temporarily treat wrinkles, muscle spasms, and other fine lines. Our Botox, Daxxify and Jeaveau products are fantastic options for this type of treatment.
2. Consultation is Key, so Don’t Wing It!
Consult a medical aesthetics nurse. Look for someone who has been injecting for at least 5 years. Medical Aesthetics Nurses’ practice is in aesthetics, so it’s their specialty. At Simply Bliss, our team of experienced injectors is passionate about what they do and providing optimal results. Think of a consultation with a qualified injector as your roadmap to fabulous fillers and injectables.
Here’s what you can expect:
Discussing Your Goals: Be upfront about what bothers you! Do you want to soften smile lines? Plump your lips? Get rid of those pesky under-eye shadows?
Medical History Check: Transparency is key! Mention any allergies, medications you’re taking, and previous cosmetic procedures. This helps the injector determine if these services are safe for you.
Seeing Realistic Expectations: Fillers and injectables are amazing, but they can’t work miracles, so set realistic goals. Don’t chase airbrushed perfection from social media – you are uniquely beautiful!
3. Know What You’re Getting Into
Be a savvy consumer! Many med spas and clinics showcase “before and after” photos of these treatments. Here’s how to analyze them effectively:
Natural Lighting is Your Friend: Beware of heavily edited photos, so look for images with natural lighting that accurately represent the results.
Focus on Similar Skin Types: If you have very dry or oily skin, find examples that resemble your own skin type for a more realistic expectation.
Subtle is Sexy: Look for photos where the after image shows a natural-looking enhancement, not a complete facial transformation.
4. Don’t Fear the Needle
Let’s be honest, needles aren’t exactly the epitome of fun. But fear not! Here’s how to make the injection process as comfortable as possible:
Numbing Cream: Most injectors apply a topical numbing cream to minimize discomfort. You might also feel a slight vibration that could minimize any sensations from needles.
Open Communication: Speak up if you feel any pain! A skilled injector will adjust their technique or use additional numbing if needed.
5. Post-Filler Care and Healing
Just like any procedure, there’s some aftercare involved. Here’s how to ensure your injectables settle in beautifully:
Minimize Touching: Avoid rubbing or touching the treated area for the first 24 hours. This helps prevent swelling and migration of the product.
Sleep on Your Back: Pressing your face into a pillow during the first few nights can disrupt the product’s placement. Sleep on your back to avoid any unwanted movement below the surface.
Take it Easy on Exercise: Strenuous activity can increase blood flow to the face, potentially causing temporary swelling. It can also cause you to sweat, which can minimize the impact of the product in your skin. Stick to light exercise or wait a couple of days before hitting the gym.
6. Results You Can See (and Feel)!
The best part is definitely seeing your transformed face! Fillers typically show results immediately, although there might be some minor swelling that subsides within a day or two. Botox and other injectables typically take a few days to settle in and show their effects. The takeaway here is to just be patient while your treated area heals and the product fully sets in.
7. How Long Do Fillers Last?
Like everything good in life, dermal fillers and injectables aren’t permanent. But the longevity depends on the type of product used and your individual body. Your results will vary, so doublecheck with your doctor or esthetician before making a choice. Here’s a general (average) guideline:
Hyaluronic Acid: 6 months to 1 year
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA): 1 to 2 years
Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA): 2 to 5 years
Botulinum Toxin Type A: about 3 months
8. How Much Do Fillers Cost?
The cost of dermal fillers and injectables vary depending on several factors:
Type of Product: Hyaluronic acid fillers are generally less expensive than CaHA or PLLA, while Botulinum Toxin Type A is usually cheaper than fillers.
Amount of Product Used: The amount of filler needed depends on the area being treated and the desired outcome.
Injector’s Expertise: Experienced injectors with a strong reputation often come at a premium price.
Here’s a bonus tip: Don’t base your decision solely on price. Choose a qualified injector who uses high-quality products and prioritizes your safety and desired outcome.
9. The Power of Prevention
Dermal fillers and injectables are fantastic, but they work best with a good skincare routine:
Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable: Sun damage is a major contributor to wrinkles and loss of volume. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize: Keeping your skin hydrated plumps it up from within, minimizing the appearance of fine lines.
Consult a Dermatologist: A dermatologist can recommend a personalized skincare routine that addresses your specific needs.
10. Embrace Your Own Beauty
Remember, aesthetic products are a tool to enhance your natural beauty, not to create someone entirely new. Don’t chase trends or try to look like someone else. The goal is to feel confident and radiant in your own skin!
See the Before and After Bliss from Dermal Fillers and Injectables!
At Simply Bliss, we’re all about ditching the pressure and focusing on what truly matters: you. Our injectors are some of the best around, and your comfort and safety are always our top priority.
Ready to ditch the stress and embrace your inner glow? Let’s chat! Schedule a consultation today and see how Simply Bliss can help you unlock your most radiant self.