What is botox and filler? A mini guide looking at safety profile and use
Let’s start from the beginning. Dermal filler (hyaluronic acid based) was first used in the late 90s and anti-wrinkle treatment (also known as Botox colloquially) was first introduced in the 1980s. Since the advent of social media, we have seen a massive uptake in procedures. The demand in treatment lies somewhat with a pressure to meet beauty standards, however growing transparency and social acceptability have also led to an expansive, booming industry.
What is Dermal Filler?
Broadly speaking, dermal filler is a chemical that mimics the natural composition of collagen that can be injected under the skin to “fill” a deficit in the face. This could be to mimic fat, bone or to even improve skin quality. Dermal fillers are often hyaluronic based, as this is the naturally occurring compound in our bodies that helps give volume to our skin.
When is Dermal Filler recommended?
With age, our natural facial structures are lost and our features begin to change as a result. You may have noticed that your cheeks aren’t as full any more, and that lines are appearing around your mouth. This is because we have fat pads which provide volume in our cheeks, and during the ageing process, this fat pad shrinks and drops down with gravity. The lines around your mouth (Nasolabial fold) are formed because of the displacement of the fat pad and poor skin elasticity.
We can also use dermal filler to enhance certain features (lips, cheeks, chin, jawline). Injecting filler into different depths of the skin allows for different results to be achieved.
We don’t offer filler to those who are pregnant/breastfeeding, have bleeding disorders, inflammatory skin conditions, skin infections or previous allergic reaction to filler.
Is it a permanent treatment?
No. The duration of filler depends on a number of factors but mostly the patient and the product. Most hyaluronic based fillers last from 6-18 months, depending on their chemical composition.
Is it safe?
Yes. A good practitioner will use safe injection techniques to prevent serious complications from occurring. Should a complication arise or you are unhappy with the cosmetic outcome, filler can be dissolved.
What is Anti-wrinkle toxin?
Botulinum toxin type A is a protein produced by a group of bacteria called Clostridium Botulinum. It temporarily stops the transmission of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. This causes the muscle to stop working for a period of time.
When is Anti-wrinkle toxin recommended?
Toxin can be used to treat medical conditions such as teeth grinding, migraines and bladder muscle overactivity. To achieve a cosmetic result, toxin is injected into the muscles of the face to prevent fine lines from being formed on movement. We don’t offer toxin treatment to those who are pregnant/breastfeeding or with underlying neurological conditions, bleeding disorders or inflammatory skin disorders.
It is worth noting that anti wrinkle treatment is a prescription only medication, which means a prescriber (doctor, dentist, prescribing pharmacists or nurse practitioners) can only prescribe this. Does this mean you can go to your GP and demand to have botox? No. As for the purposes of aesthetics, anti wrinkle toxin would be an “off-license” medication therefore the NHS will not fund the costs.
Is it a permanent treatment?
No. Anti wrinkle toxin treatment causes a temporary paralysis of the facial muscles that usually lasts for 3-4 months. Top-ups are required to maintain results.
Is it safe?
Yes. Rates of severe allergic reactions are practically non-existent. Using certified and regulated products, we inject very small amounts into the face. Cases of botulism (dangerous levels of toxin in the body) are also very low.
