As we age, the natural collagen and elastin in our skin lessens, and this can make us look older. Dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections are two well-known and popular treatments which help to restore a more youthful appearance in the face.
While the terms anti-wrinkle and dermal filler are sometimes used interchangeably, they are actually completely different treatments. In this article, we explain the difference between anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers to help you understand what problems they can each help to solve.
What are dermal fillers?
Dermal and facial fillers can be highly effective in helping to regain a more youthful appearance by restoring the plumpness in your skin as well as reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
Dermal fillers are made from different kinds of natural and man-made materials and there are various brands available. For moderate to severe wrinkles we can use long-acting fillers made of crosslinked gelatinous hyaluronic acid or longer-acting semi-permanent products.
When you have a dermal filler treatment, the affected area is numbed with a local anaesthetic and then the filler is injected. The effects are immediate though as long as you follow our after-care instructions they will look their best after 48 – 72 hours.
Eventually the dermal filler is broken down and absorbed by the body and further treatments are required to maintain the effect.
What are Anti-Wrinkle Injections?
Branded as ‘Botox’, this substance is a form of Botulinum Toxin Type A which is produced by the bacteria Clostridium Botulinum.
It works by temporarily relaxing the facial muscles which cause fine lines and wrinkles and is commonly used to improve the look of moderate to severe frown lines and crow’s feet.
Treatment takes only around 20 minutes and the smoothing effects normally last for three to four months, though the effects can last for six to seven months with repeated treatments. There should be at least 12 weeks between treatments.
Dermal fillers or Anti-Wrinkle Injections - which is right for you?
The choice between dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections will depend upon the results you wish to achieve. At your initial consultation, we will assess your skin and face and discuss the best course of treatment to give the results you are after.
