Injectables, such as dermal fillers and neurotoxin treatments, have seen a surge in popularity within the aesthetic market, offering a means to enhance natural beauty and maintain a youthful appearance. However, despite this popularity, myths and misconceptions surrounding these injectable treatments may deter you from considering them or leave you misinformed. Let’s clarify fact from fiction, empowering you to make informed decisions about these aesthetic treatments.
Myth 1: Injectables make you look fake or frozen
The truth: An experienced injector can help you achieve a younger look without appearing overdone.
One of our deepest fears is the prospect of looking “plastic” or “frozen.” However, the contemporary aesthetic approach emphasizes subtlety with modern injectable products, achieved through careful selection of an aesthetic practitioner. For instance, neurotoxin injections, when administered in the correct dosage and areas, simply relax targeted muscles to help smooth wrinkles without hindering your usual range of facial expressions.
Similarly, dermal fillers effectively restore lost volume and augment facial shapes, such as lips and mid-cheeks, while preserving a natural-looking appearance. The key lies in finding a skilled and experienced aesthetic practitioner who possesses a deep understanding of facial anatomy and believes in a conservative approach.
Myth 2: Injectables are for women only
The truth: In the UK, anyone aged 18 or older can receive injectable treatments.
While women constitute the vast majority of injectable clients, men are increasingly seeking these treatments to refresh their appearance and boost their confidence.
For men, common goals include maintaining a strong jawline, softening deep forehead lines, or addressing under-eye hollows. Injectable treatments can be tailored to masculine facial aesthetics, delivering subtle, natural-looking results that align with both individual needs and desired outcomes.
Myth 3: Dermal fillers and Botox® are permanent
The truth: Injectable treatments are temporary, offering flexibility and customisation.
Dermal fillers typically last from 6 to 18 months, depending on the specific product and the treated area. Neurotoxin injections generally last for approximately 3 to 6 months. This temporary nature allows for flexibility in adapting treatments to your evolving aesthetic goals and desires over time.
Myth 4: Injectables are painful
The truth: Injectables are minimally invasive and often relatively painless.
Aesthetic practitioners use ultrafine needles for injections, with many including a numbing agent like lidocaine to improve comfort. Cooling creams or ice packs can also be applied to reduce sensitivity even further. Most describe the feeling as a slight pinprick or light pressure, so the treatment is quite bearable.
Myth 5: You don’t need injectables until you have wrinkles
The truth: Aesthetic treatments can prevent lines and wrinkles from forming.
Injectables are not only useful for reversing signs of ageing, they are also an effective preventative tool. For instance, beginning neurotoxin treatments in your late 20s or early 30s can help relax the muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkles (the ones caused by repeating the same muscle expressions over time) and stop them from forming in their tracks. So, by injecting an optimal amount of neurotoxins according to your facial anatomy, the lines do not become ingrained in your skin over time.
Myth 6: Injectables are dangerous
The truth: Injectables are very safe when injected by a qualified aesthetic practitioner.
Injectables such as Botox and dermal fillers have decades of research and clinical use behind them. Safety is often a matter of who performs the treatment. To avoid risks and ensure that the procedure is performed correctly, it is always recommended to opt for a certified and experienced aesthetic professional working at a well-reputed clinic.
Myth 7: Recovery time is long
The truth: You’ll only need a little downtime for most injectables.
One of the best advantages of injectables is their convenience. Most treatments last under 30 minutes, and you can go back to your normal routines immediately afterwards. You may have minor swelling, redness, or bruising, but side effects generally go away within a few days.
Myth 8: Injectables are just for your face
The truth: Injectables can treat multiple areas of the face and body.
Injectables often come into play for facials, but they can be used at the same time on other parts of the body. For instance:
- Hands: Dermal fillers can help replace lost volume and smooth out wrinkles.
- Neck and décolletage: Injectables such as PRP or mesotherapy can enhance skin texture and elasticity.
- Jawline and chin: Enhance facial definition with fillers for a sharper and more structured appearance.
- Body: Treatments such as Sculptra can be used across various parts of the body including stomach
Myth 9: Results are instant
The truth: Some results are instant, but the full effect takes time.
Dermal fillers usually offer immediate results, although swelling can obscure the ultimate appearance. Neurotoxin procedures typically take around 3 to 7 days to see results, and optimal results will surface after 2 weeks. It takes patience to see the full benefits of any injectable treatment.
Choosing The Right Aesthetic Practitioner
With injectables, the expertise and experience of your aesthetic practitioner are key to achieving your aesthetic goals.
Typically, a good medical professional would emphasise the goal of providing the right, natural, and outcome-oriented results to every patient by incorporating medical knowledge and scientific techniques with artistic precision through certified professionals. Here are key factors to consider:
| Key consideration | What to look for |
| Credentials and Certification | Ensure the practitioner is medically qualified and certified by recognised aesthetic government bodies. |
| Experience in Aesthetic Treatments | Look for extensive experience in injectables, with proven expertise in treating your specific concerns. |
| Understanding of Facial Anatomy | A deep knowledge of facial anatomy ensures safe and precise injectable placement. |
| Aesthetic Approach | The practitioner should blend medical expertise with artistic precision for natural, subtle results. |
| Consultation Process | A thorough consultation should include a discussion of your goals, medical history, and realistic expectations. |
| Use of Safe and Approved Products | Ensure only injectables from reputable manufacturers are used. |
| Reviews and Recommendations | Research testimonials or get referrals to assess the practitioner’s skill, professionalism and patient satisfaction. |
| Hygienic and Professional Clinic Setting | Treatments should occur in a clean, medical-grade facility with strict safety protocols. |
| Customised Treatment Plans | Look for tailored plans that address your unique facial structure, goals, and budget. |
| Post-Treatment Care and Support | Practitioners should provide aftercare instructions, follow-ups, and support for any post-treatment concerns. |
By considering these factors, you can choose an aesthetic practitioner who prioritises your safety and satisfaction while helping you achieve your desired results.
Are You Ready to Bust the Myths and Try Injectables?
From smoothing the appearance of wrinkle lines to restoring volume and enhancing facial structures, injectables provide customisable, effective solutions. Know the facts to put your mind at ease and explore the above truths with confidence to achieve your aesthetic goals.
Acquisition Aesthetics is a trusted training provider for medical professionals, equipping doctors with advanced skills in aesthetic medicine. If you see certification from Acquisition Aesthetics in the clinics, it’s a mark of excellence and assurance that your practitioner is highly qualified to deliver safe, expert care.
FAQs
Can everyone use injectables?
Injectables, such as dermal fillers and neurotoxins, are generally safe for all skin types. However, it’s crucial to have a consultation with an experienced injector who can look at your skin and ensure the treatment is tailored to your individual needs and concerns.Cosmetic injectables are prescription only and must be administered by a medically trained aesthetician.
Can injectables be used in combination with other treatments?
Absolutely! Injectables with other aesthetic treatments such as chemical peels, laser therapy or microneedling are great options for broad-based rejuvenation. Your practitioner can design a customised plan to integrate treatments for the best results.
When can I put on makeup following injectables?
Although the procedure itself is quite simple and your individual recovery will depend on the severity or placement of the injections, it’s wise to wait at least 24 hours before wearing makeup to allow the injection sites to heal and reduce the risk of irritation or infection.
Will injectables sag out my skin over the years?
No, injectables, such as dermal fillers, do not stretch the skin. In fact, they are able to restore lost volume and increase skin elasticity. Your skin returns to its natural state once the product is absorbed into the body.
