These days, there is a lot of discussion in the cosmetic industry about “injectables” but there are two types of cosmetic injectables. These are:
- Anti wrinkle injections
- Dermal fillers
Although they are two different treatments, they can be used in combination with each other for a more holistic treatment.
So just what differentiates anti-wrinkle injections from dermal fillers?
Anti Wrinkle Injections
Anti wrinkle injections work by relaxing and freezing the muscles in the injected areas. This stops the face from moving in such a way that creates and emphasises fine lines and wrinkles.
The full effect of anti-wrinkle injections is not immediate. The results will increase gradually, with maximum benefit achieved around 2-3 weeks after treatment.
The product used is temporary, and these types of injections can also be combined with other treatments, such as dermal filler and laser, to be even more effective.
Anti wrinkle injections are commonly used to treat areas on the face such as:
- crows feet
- forehead
- frown lines
- lips (smokers lines)
Anti wrinkle injections can also be used to treat medical conditions such as migraines, excessive sweating, and jaw clenching.
What is the aftercare for anti-wrinkle?
It will generally take between 2-3 days for the anti-wrinkle injections to settle into the target muscles. Therefore it is important during this time to refrain from massaging, rubbing or applying heavy pressure to the treatment area/s. It is best to remain upright for the first 4 hours and to abstain from exercise for 48 hours post anti-wrinkle treatment.
Are there any side affects when you get anti-wrinkle?
Beyond a slight redness or tiny raised bumps around the injection points that typically disappear after about 30 minutes, there are no side effects related to anti-wrinkle injections for the majority of cases. Since everyone’s physiology is not identical, a small minority may experience minor bruising or temporary headache – the latter can be treated with over-the-counter painkillers.
Okay, what about Dermal Fillers?
Dermal Fillers
Dermal filler is a substance that is injected under the skin and remains in place to fill and plump wrinkles, lines and areas that have begun to sag. The result is an increased volume in the skin and a softer, more youthful appearance.
What can dermal fillers correct?
Different types of dermal fillers are designed to treat varying signs of aging. Depending on the filler selected, they may:
- plump up thinning lips
- enhance or fill in shallow areas on the face
- decrease or remove the shadow or wrinkle under the eyes caused by the lower eyelid
- fill in or soften the look of recessed scars
- fill in or soften static wrinkles, especially on the lower face
Static wrinkles include those around the mouth and along the cheeks. These wrinkles are usually a result of a loss of collagen and elasticity in the skin.
What Are The Side Effects of Dermal Filler Injections?
If a qualified and skilled aesthetic injector has completed your treatment, you should experience very few side effects of issues with your dermal filler.
As with any injections, you can expect some discomfort at the time of treatment.
Best of all, the results are instant! Although there may be a little swelling and redness in the area, you will see an instant improvement with a dermal filler treatment.
You can also expect some tenderness, swelling and possible bruising to the area, but this will only be temporary (and further minimised by the correct aftercare). Most patients do not experience any downtime, and some even schedule their appointments to be on their lunch break!
Key differences
In summary, the differences between anti wrinkle and fillers are:
- Anti-Wrinkle: This freezes muscles to stop creases and wrinkles caused by facial expressions. These are typically found in the upper face, such as the forehead and around the eyes.
- Dermal fillers: These use hyaluronic acid and similar substances to “fill in” or plump areas that have lost volume and smoothness. This includes wrinkles around the mouth, thin lips, and cheeks that have lost fullness. They may also be used on forehead wrinkles, scars, and other areas that need extra volume for a smoother look.
- Anti wrinkle results last 3 to 4 months.
- Dermal filler results vary, depending on which filler is used.