Injectables: An Uncomplicated Solution for Aging Skin

    LOS ANGELES, CA, October 16, 2008 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Injectables are becoming one of the most frequently used solutions for maintaining a youthful, rested appearance. Their ease-of-use and effectiveness no doubt contribute to their popularity. Typically, if there is any down time after the procedures, is minimal and results can take years off your appearance.

Types of Injectables

Injectables can be divided into two categories: fillers and relaxers. Fillers are those materials that actually "fill in" lines and wrinkles, while relaxers relax the muscles associated with lines and wrinkles. Typically, relaxers are used on the upper face while fillers are used on the lower regions of the face.

Available Fillers

In the past silicone and paraffin were used to fill wrinkles, but problems arose in the body's ability to tolerate these substances. Bovine collagen (derived from cows) was approved in 1981 and became the most widely used injectable for reducing signs of aging such as lines and creases. New injectables have been developed over the past two decades, providing alternatives for those seeking to make lines and wrinkles considerably less obvious.

Hyaluronic acid (a natural skin polysaccharide) is one alternative, as is human collagen. These fillers agents are injected underneath the wrinkle and scaffold the skin to elevate the creased area. Hyaluronic acid and collagen are also used for lip augmentation. Lip procedures can be painful; a topical or injected anesthetic is often required. Bruising is these procedures' main side effect. Those undergoing facial injections should not take aspirin or ibuprofen for ten days prior to the procedure.

Hyaluronic acid injections last longer than collagen. Typically, results are apparent for up to six months with hyaluronic acid, while collagen lasts up to four months. Hyaluronic acid sucks in water as is begins breaking down, so results fade more gradually. For deeper folds in the cheeks, an injectable that contains tiny synthetic bone particles is an option; results last for up to one year. Recently, the FDA approved this new injectable, Artefill, to correct cheek folds. This filler contains small synthetic bovine collagen spheres and can last as long as four years. This durable filler builds collagen around the spheres; over time the tissue actually increases in volume. The procedure is not typically painful, and generally requires three sessions for optimal results.

Relaxing Agents

Relaxing agents' usefulness in wrinkle treatments was discovered almost accidentally. Botulinum toxin (Botox) had been in use for several years for the treatment of muscle spasms; clinicians noticed that wrinkles were smoothed in patients with facial muscle spasms. FDA approved in 2001, Botox has rapidly become one of the most widely used facial rejuvenation treatments in the United States.

Botox has many uses to decrease the signs of aging. Common areas of focus include crow's feet, forehead furrows and lines between the brows. It takes only a few minutes to inject Botox, and only slight discomfort is involved. There is no downtime after the procedure, and patients may immediately return to work. Results are apparent for five to seven days as the muscle weakens. The effect lasts approximately three months. Botox injections are very safe. Bruising can occur, and only rarely, a temporary headache or a temporary eyelid droop may result as side effects.

If you are in the Los Angeles area and are seeking to explore a facial injectable that can decrease signs of aging, please contact Dr. Babak Azizzadeh to set up an initial consultation.

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