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Frequently Asked Questions about Cosmetic Injectables

August 19, 2011 | Blog, Botox and Juvederm Injectables, Other

aya skin careQ.) I hear words like cosmetic injectables, dermal injectables, and facial fillers used interchangeably to describe products like Restylane® and BOTOX®. Do they all mean the same thing?

A.) While all of these words are used to describe products that are strategically injected to reduce the signs of aging, each of these products accomplishes that goal in a different manner.   The important thing to remember is that there are three distinct product classification with injectables:  those that relax the muscles that contribute to wrinkling (BOTOX® and Dysport®), those that actually fill in areas of lost volume (Radiesse® and Juvéderm®), and others that help treat wrinkles by stimulating the body’s natural collagen production (Sculptra®).

Q.) I have deep wrinkles and furrows on my forehead, along with areas of lost volume in my cheeks. Will I need different products to take care of both issues?

A.) Products like Radiesse® and Juvéderm® work to fill in wrinkles and areas of lost volume (like those you’re describing on your cheeks). Sculptra® stimulates the body’s own collagen production and better fills wrinkles on the temples, cheeks, nasolabial folds, marionette (smile) lines, and chin. BOTOX® relaxes the muscles that cause wrinkles between and around the eyes. So, depending on the severity and location of your concerns, your cosmetic injector may suggest treatment with a specific injectable.

Q.) What are the differences between Sculptra® Aesthetic and BOTOX® Cosmetic?

A.) Aside from different active ingredients, these products actually work very differently. BOTOX® can be injected around and between the eyes (crow’s feet) to stop wrinkling by relaxing facial muscles. BOTOX® results will usually last about 3 months. Collagen is the protein in your skin that gives it elasticity, but the body’s natural collagen production decreases with age. Sculptra® encourages the body to produce collagen by introducing calcium spheres and can last up to 2 years following the initial series of three treatments.

Q.) Why do I need multiple treatment sessions with Sculptra®?

A.) As stated above, Sculptra® stimulates the body’s own ability to produce collagen. Because the collagen production process is cyclical, just like all other regenerative biological processes, multiple treatment sessions (usually 3) spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart are necessary to accumulate enough of the stimulating agent to produce the desired results.  However, after the initial treatments, you will see results that can last up to 2 years.