Don’t Be Scared of Fillers

Courteney Cox has recently been in the news discussing why, after a heartfelt discussion with concerned friends, she has ditched the facial fillers. Before we continue the discussion, we would like to applaud Cox for being so open and honest about how easy it can be to fall into chasing “the fountain of youth” and how the overuse of facial fillers can take a very unnatural-looking turn. But, for many women looking for a fresher, more relaxed look, fillers, when used responsibly, can be a good thing.

What Are Injectables and What Do They Do?

Injectables fill the lines, creases, and hollows in around 30 minutes per session, with results lasting from 4 months to more than a year. When done correctly, they can give you a fresh-faced look for only a fraction of what traditional face-lifts cost.

Different Types of Injectables

• Hyaluronic Acid Wrinkle Fillers – This is the most commonly used type of filler. With recognizable brand names such as Juvederm, Restylane, and HylaForm, these types of fillers can last anywhere from several months to over a year. There is some research that indicated repeated injections may stimulate the body’s own production of collagen, meaning you’ll need less and less over time.
• Synthetic Wrinkle Fillers – These fillers include lab-made substances that are not found naturally in the skin. The benefits include longer-lasting effects and one treatment can offer semi-permanent filling of lines. The possible downside to synthetic wrinkle fillers is that, in rare cases or overuse, they may cause disfigurement.
• Collagen Wrinkle Fillers – Though the use of collagen wrinkle fillers may not have as long-lasting effects as most, many people feel the results look the most natural. Originally extracted from cows, new forms of synthetic collagens are making injections safer and more available. Allergy testing might be required before injections are given.
• Botox – Botox relaxes the muscle under a wrinkle, blocking signals that go from the nerves to the muscle. After injection, the muscle can no longer contract, causing wrinkles to relax and soften. Wrinkles that are caused by sun damage and gravity will not respond to Botox.

How to Increase Good Outcomes for All Wrinkle Fillers

Though fillers are one of the safest cosmetic procedures in use today, there are steps you can take to create a better outcome for yourself.

• Prevention is KEY –  Basic skin care is essential to keeping your skin looking young and refreshed. Keeping your skin’s moisture intact by using gentle cleansers and moisturizers that fit your needs, as well as daily use of sunscreen, can minimize wrinkles and the need for fillers in the first place.
• Cheaper is Not Always Better – If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. To get quality and safe products, you have to pay for them. If you see an offer for a filler that is considerably less than other reputable physician sources, it’s probably not the place you want to go. Your skin and your health are too important.
• Only Medical Professionals Allowed – Injectables should ALWAYS be performed in a medical setting with sterile instruments. You may see deals for injectables at places like hotels and high-end resorts. In almost all cases, these procedures are being performed by those with extremely limited medical training. And worst off, the standards for sterilization are not as demanding. To ensure you are getting the safest ingredients in the safest setting, stick with a medical office.
• When They Say Stop, Listen – Once a medical professional advises you to stop with the injectables, listen! Seeking additional treatments from other facilities may cause disfigurement, or worse. Just remember, if you do get a second (or even third opinion) and they also advise against more filler, they might just be right.

Sea and Sky Spa is dedicated to giving you that youthful glow the safest and most natural way possible. For more information on injectables and fillers, visit our site or give us a call to set up a consultation.