Dermal enhancements are a safe way to restore the youthful look of your face without the need for cosmetic surgery.
You’ll find that Dermal enhancements can be used in various ways, from adding lost volume back to your cheeks or lips, decreasing fine lines, and providing a boost of hydration to your skin.
Before you undergo any cosmetic procedure or dermal enhancement treatment, it’s natural to have questions as you want to make an informed decision if it’s right for you.
This article will help you understand more about dermal enhancements:
- What they are
- How to prepare for them
- How long before you see results
- How long do dermal enhancements last
- The treatment process
- What to expect after your treatment
Let’s explore the world of dermal enhancements.
What are dermal enhancements?
Dermal enhancements generally contain Hyaluronic acid that your body already produces naturally. The sugar molecules in Hyaluronic acid attract and hold water, helping to hydrate your skin and add volume.
You’ll find a range of dermal enhancements used for different areas of your face. Each one will have slightly different ingredients to make them thin, medium or thick.
The thicker dermal enhancements are used where you require more volume (e.g. cheeks or forehead), and the thinner dermal enhancements are for delicate areas (e.g. lips or under your eye area).
Your specialist cosmetic injector will be able to guide you on the type of dermal enhancements that will be suitable to create your desired look.
The most important thing to remember with dermal enhancements is that you want your face to look natural. You may be focused on one area of concern; however, your injector may suggest treating other areas to enhance your overall appearance.
The most common areas of treatment include:
- Cheeks – enhancing or restoring lost volume
- Forehead – enhancing or restoring lost volume
- Lips – plumping and smoothing lines
- Eye area – enhancing and restoring lost volume and smoothing lines
- Chin – smoothing any creases and adding lost volume
You should also be aware that dermal enhancements are not the same as anti-wrinkle injections but are often used together.
Dermal enhancements replace lost volume to hydrate and lift your skin, whereas anti-wrinkle injections work by weakening the underlying muscles that cause lines on your face.
Here’s how you should prepare for dermal enhancements
Before you undertake any dermal enhancement procedure, you will need to book a consultation with a trained cosmetic injector. They’ll assess your skin and advise you on what areas and which dermal enhancements you may need.
They will also explain the procedure and the products used for your treatment.
If you have had allergic reactions to any treatment or drugs in the past, it’s best to discuss this at your first consultation and check the ingredients.
We also recommend that if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have compromised immunity, you avoid any dermal enhancement treatments.
Unlike surgical procedures, there isn’t any special preparation needed before your dermal enhancement appointment. You’ll need to have a clean face (no makeup) and be prepared that you may experience some side effects, as outlined below.
How long will it take to see the results of dermal enhancements?
Many people are surprised to learn that you may see the results straight away. This will depend on the treatment you’ve received and if you’ve experienced any side effects.
What are the possible side effects of dermal enhancements?
Following your dermal enhancement treatment, you may experience mild or no side effects at all. The common side effects include slight bruising (that can last up to 2 weeks depending on the area) or swelling that subsides quite quickly.
How long do dermal enhancements last?
Unlike cosmetic surgery, dermal enhancements are not permanent and must be repeated to maintain the effect. You’ll find that your dermal enhancement treatment will last from 6 to 12 months (some even longer, up to 18 months).
The length depends on a few factors:
- The type of product used
- Where you had the treatment
- How your body naturally metabolises the product once it’s injected
Does the dermal enhancement treatment hurt?
This is one of the aspects that most people worry about. The idea of having injections in your face isn’t exactly comforting! But the great news is, most people tolerate the injections really well and have no issues.
At the start of your treatment, your injector will make sure you’re comfortable and ready to begin the process.
Your face will be thoroughly cleaned to prevent any possible infection. Before your injections start, a topical anaesthetic will be applied to your face to numb the area. By doing this, you won’t be in much discomfort (if any) during your procedure.
If you are feeling any discomfort and you need a short break, it’s important to communicate this with your injector so they may proceed at a pace that is comfortable for you.
What to do following your dermal enhancement treatment
Following your treatment, you may experience slight bruising and/or swelling. This is normal and should clear up quite quickly. You’ll be given an ice pack to apply to help with possible swelling.
You’ll be able to return to your regular daily routine after your treatment.
It is advisable to avoid (for 24 hours):
- Doing a workout or attending the gym as it’s best not to get too hot and sweaty to risk infection
- Intense heat (spas, saunas, etc.)
- Alcohol
- Retinols or Vitamin C therapy creams
- Oil-based makeup
- Ibuprofen for pain – take paracetamol instead if needed
Once you have made an investment and you’re thrilled with the results, you’d want to maintain your toned appearance.
It is advisable to:
- Keep hydrated (water is fantastic for your skin)
- Use recommended skincare products
- Avoid smoking (this also helps prevent fine lines near your mouth)
- Get your top-ups as recommended
- Use sunscreen anytime you are outside to avoid UV exposure
- Minimise stress
Want to find out more about dermal enhancements?
If you’re curious to find out more about dermal enhancement and want to discuss if they’ll work for you, book a consultation with our professional cosmetic injectors.
Dermal enhancements are safe and effective, and once you’ve discovered how great your skin feels and looks, you’ll be hooked!