10.7 million. This is how many injectable treatments were done in the U.S. last year. If you have ever wondered what a friend or public figure is doing to stay refreshed, chances are injectables are part of their secret. With these minimally invasive treatments more accessible than ever, you may be considering them for yourself. Maybe you are just curious what they are all about. Welcome to "Injectables 101"- a brief overview of wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers. 

"Me, Only With Less Lines."

image source and safety information: https://www.botoxcosmetic.com/before-and-after

Neuromodulators, such as BOTOX® Cosmetic and Xeomin®, work by stopping the nerves from triggering muscle movement. These products are injected into the muscles that activate lines around our eyes (crow's feet), vertical lines on our forehead, and lines between our eyes (the "11's"). For 3-4 months, the lines in these areas are softer and less visible. For more on the history of how Botox started as a medical treatment for crossed eyes (strabismus) and involuntary eye twitching (blepharospasm), click here.

"I Want to Look More Refreshed"

image source and safety information: https://radiesse.com/lookbook/?category=faces-of-america

Think of a balloon as it starts to lose helium. As it deflates, the balloon becomes smaller and loses height. Similar to what happens with volume loss in our face. As an example, the malar fat pad starts to shrink and move downwards. This causes this fat pad to press on the lower face which then deepens nasolabial folds. Dermal filler is injected to replace volume and add some contour and structure back to the face or hands. Filler can also be used to enhance features (such as lips). Different fillers last different amounts of time, from 8 months to 2 years. 

What's Next?

There is a constant pursuit at these aesthetic companies to create new products that allow us to pursue safe, natural results. With new clinical testing on existing products, we will see even more uses for these injectables. If you are considering injectables, a great place to start is with a consultation. Be ready to share what you are noticing and what changes you are hoping to achieve. An experienced injector will be able to explain why they recommend the areas to treat and the best products for your personal aesthetic goals. 

To schedule a consultation for wrinkle relaxer and dermal fillers at Vanguard Aesthetics, call 719-579-5555. Our aesthetic services are provided at the North Colorado Springs Vanguard Skin Specialists location.