What are injectables?
“Injectables” is a term used to describe any cosmetic treatment that is injected into the skin with a needle. They’re most commonly used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, give the face a fuller, younger-looking appearance, or get rid of varicose veins.
Injectables are among the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States. Some of the most common injectables include:
- BotoxⓇ or DysportⓇ (botulinum toxin) to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Fillers, such as RestylaneⓇ and the JuvédermⓇ line of fillers including VolumaⓇ, which give the cheeks, lips, or nasolabial folds a fuller appearance
- Sclerotherapy to reduce the appearance of varicose veins
Injectables are safe, effective treatments with no downtime. You can even receive some injectables over your lunch break and return to work without pain.
How do injectables work?
Injectables work in different ways to improve your appearance.
Botox and Dysport
Botox and Dysport use botulinum toxin to block nerve signals to the facial muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles that form from expressions. Without these nerve signals, the fine muscles in the face relax, smoothing out lines and wrinkles. Botox can be injected into the forehead, between the eyebrows, or at the edges of the eyes to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Botox injections take only about 15 minutes to complete. You see results begin to show within a few days and should continue to see results for 3-4 months. You can schedule maintenance appointments to receive more injections to keep wrinkles away.
Juvéderm and Restylane
These dermal fillers use hyaluronic acid, which is a compound that’s found naturally in the skin, to create a fuller, plumper look. They can be used in the cheeks, lips, or around the mouth to add volume, smooth out wrinkles, and create a younger appearance.
Filler injections take about 30 minutes to complete. They offer instant results that last for 6-12 months or even longer. Over time, the hyaluronic acid is harmlessly absorbed into your skin. You can schedule regular appointments to maintain your results.
Sclerotherapy
During sclerotherapy, a specialized solution is injected into the veins, causing them to collapse. The veins disappear permanently, usually within weeks. Multiple treatments may be needed. You can typically return to your normal activities on the same day, although you need to wear compression stockings for at least two weeks.
Am I a candidate for injectables?
Injectables are safe for almost anyone who is looking to achieve a younger appearance, eliminate veins, or prevent wrinkles from forming. People as young as 30 commonly receive Botox injections.
You may not be a candidate for injectables if you’re pregnant or have a bleeding disorder. Always tell your dermatologist about any medical conditions you have before receiving injectables.
At San Francisco Dermatology, Dr. Dans offers personalized cosmetic treatments to help you improve your appearance and get the look you want. Book an appointment online through the patient portal or call the office to learn more about your options.
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