Wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers
People often use the two names loosely, so here is the plain difference. Wrinkle relaxers are injected into muscle and act on muscle movement. Dermal fillers are gels placed under the skin in a chosen spot. They are different products with different techniques, and a provider may suggest one, both or neither.
Both are given by licensed providers where state law allows. Who may inject is set by state rules, which differ across the country. Ask any provider you speak with about their license, their training with each product and how they decide what is suitable.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding and injectables
Most providers do not give wrinkle relaxers or dermal fillers during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, and many will ask about plans to become pregnant. If any of these apply, say so at the start of the consultation.
Other health points a licensed provider usually considers include nerve or muscle conditions, autoimmune conditions, a history of keloid scars, active skin infections near the area, and past reactions to injectables. Injectables are given by licensed providers where state law allows, and the provider decides what is suitable for you, including the choice to wait.
Questions to have ready
A consultation is the time to ask, so prepare your questions in advance. A few to start with:
- Who will do the injections, and what license do they hold?
- Which product type are you suggesting, and why?
- What side effects are possible, and how would you handle a complication?
- What aftercare should I follow?
- Is there a follow-up visit?
- How is cost worked out?
Cost is set by each provider, so ask at the consultation. The questions to ask page has more ideas.
Questions about injectables
Can I have injectables while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Most providers do not give wrinkle relaxers or dermal fillers during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If either applies, or you are planning a pregnancy, tell the provider at the start of the consultation. They will decide what is suitable, which may mean waiting.
Do I need to stop any medicines first?
Do not stop a prescribed medicine without talking to the person who prescribed it. Some medicines and supplements, such as blood thinners, aspirin and fish oil, can make bruising more likely, so bring a full list to the consultation. The provider weighs it and decides what is suitable.
How do I know which product a provider is using?
Ask. A provider can tell you the product type, whether it is a wrinkle relaxer or a dermal filler, and why they suggest it. You can also ask for the product name and amount to be noted in your records, which helps if you see a different provider later.
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