Which Type of Cosmetic Injectable Is Right for You?

Cosmetic injectables are an increasingly popular facial rejuvenation treatment thanks to their versatility. Whether you have wrinkles, fine lines, deep creases, hollow cheeks, a weak chin or an undefined jawline, there’s an injectable for you. 

But what types of cosmetic injectables are there? And what can they do? 

Below, we’ll break down the two most popular types of injectables. 

Botulinum Toxins

Botulinum toxins (neuromodulators or neurotoxins) are a type of injection that interacts with the muscle. When this solution is introduced to particular muscles, the toxin blocks chemical signals from the brain telling those muscles to contract. Without these signals, the muscles remain relaxed. 

While this injectable was not initially created for cosmetic purposes and has various non-cosmetic uses, scientists found it did wonders for smoothing dynamic wrinkles, which are the lines and wrinkles caused by repeated muscle movements.

By inhibiting muscle contraction, neuromodulators can minimize the appearance and creation of fine lines and wrinkles in areas of movement, typically between the brows or around the eyes. 

Uses for Botulinum Toxins

Repeated facial expressions cause fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, brows and mouth. By carefully injecting botulinum toxin into the muscle, these dynamic wrinkles are minimized through the relaxation of muscle contractions. 

Botulinum toxins have both aesthetic and medical uses, including: 

• Smoothes fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and forehead, including frown lines, crow’s feet, horizontal forehead lines and other wrinkles in the face and neck
• Relaxes the upper lip muscle to remedy a gummy smile (showing excess upper gums when smiling)
• Alleviates migraine headaches 
• Improves excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) of the hands and underarms
• Relaxes facial muscles responsible for nighttime teeth grinding or TMJ 

Although a temporary treatment, you can undergo repeated injections every four to six months to maintain results long-term. Cosmetic injections are a simple procedure with minimal downtime when performed by a licensed medical professional or board-certified plastic surgeon.

Dermal Fillers

Unlike botulinum toxins that target the muscle, dermal fillers work to improve volume loss in the face and body. When used appropriately, dermal filler injections can treat many signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, deep creases, volume loss and collagen loss.

Most dermal fillers consist of hyaluronic acid (HA), a compound naturally found in tendons and muscles. HA increases hydration in the skin, which plumps and provides a supple bounce and softness to your facial features.

Other dermal fillers consist of calcium hydroxyapatite, which stimulates collagen production, creating smoother, plumper skin.

Uses for Dermal Fillers

Depending on the type, dermal fillers can improve aging and genetic concerns across the face and jawline. Dermal fillers can also restore volume to the backs of the hands.

When the appropriate dermal is selected, this treatment can:

• Address volume loss such as sunken under eyes, hollow cheeks and thin lips
• Add contours, shape and definition to weak jawlines and chins
• Restore or create full, high cheeks
• Plump the lips
• Minimize deep creases in high-movement areas, such as around the mouth (nasolabial folds)

Additionally, while botulinum toxin injections improve fine lines and dynamic wrinkles caused by excessive muscle movement, dermal fillers can target much deeper static wrinkles that result from age and sun damage.

Your Cosmetic Injectable Specialists in Gatineau-Ottawa

Because of the popularity of these procedures, you may encounter technicians who claim to have the proper training and licensure to perform injections. However, it is important only to have these treatments performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon or a certified medical professional.

Even though cosmetic injectables are non-invasive, they are still a medical procedure. When administered by an under-qualified person, you put yourself at risk for serious side effects.

Dr. Patricia Berbari is a board-certified plastic surgeon and an expert injector. She oversees all cosmetic procedures at MedicSpa Gatineau, ensuring her nurses are excellently trained in cosmetic injections. Additionally, Dr. Berbari conducts every initial consultation to provide her patients with the best care.

Interested in Cosmetic Injectables in Gatineau-Ottawa?

Our highly trained medical staff and injectable specialists are happy to answer any questions you have. Call us today at (819) 414-2200 to schedule an appointment, or fill out our online contact form for more information. We look forward to hearing from you!