What’s the difference between the main methods of wrinkle reduction?
The use of anti-aging injections and derma fillers has become accepted as a normal everyday aesthetic treatment, no longer used just by celebrities and influencers! But what is the difference between the two treatments? Which one is best for specific treatments?
Anti-aging injections
Anti-aging injections are made from a purified form of a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum which works by blocking signals from the nerves to the muscles, temporarily disabling the muscles that cause wrinkles to soften and relax.
In general they are used to treat the top third of the face; to shape and lift the brow and soften forehead lines; to improve frown lines; to lessen crow’s feet around the eyes.
The treatment is administered by injection to the exact muscles that are causing the wrinkles. An experienced, well-trained practitioner will ensure only the muscles which produce the wrinkles are treated – so the other muscles continue to contract normally ensuring normal facial expressions can occur rather than creating a frozen look.
Results from this treatment last between three and four months, and sometimes up to five months. If treatments are repeated over an extended period, the muscles causing the wrinkles atrophy and weaken. This increases the effects of the treatment and reduces the reoccurrence of wrinkles over time.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers can contain a variety of ingredients, but most commonly a natural substance called hyaluronic acid.
Fillers are most often used to lift and shape the full face, including improving dark circles; enhancing volume in and around the cheeks; correcting the shape of the nose; reducing smile lines and smoker lines; minimising nasolabial folds; restoring volume and shape to the lips and reshaping the jowl line.
Like anti-aging treatments, dermal fillers are injected into the required area. But rather than disabling muscles they plump the skin up, make it firmer, smoothing out lines and wrinkles. This is because they are gel-like implants.
Injecting fillers is a skilled procedure to ensure the results are as desired. The older the person receiving treatment is, the more filler is needed. For example, a 60-year old face is likely to need 6 vials, while a 40-year old face needs only 4.
Results from dermal fillers can last up to up to a year, although this differs from person to person. The body starts to break down the hyaluronic acid after about six months.
Choosing a clinic
To ensure you have the right treatment for the results you want, look for a clinic that provides a free initial consultation where you can find out more before committing. Check out the experience of the clinicians – and remember if a clinic’s price seems overly cheap in comparison to others, this is probably not a good sign! It is always sensible to take a look at reviews on the clinic’s website, Google, and other review sites.
If you’d like to check out Brigstock Skin and Laser’s testimonials please click here. And if you’d like to learn more about our wrinkle reduction capabilities click here. You can also book a FREE initial consultation by calling us on 020 8683 6730 or clicking here.
