Neuromodulators can benefit your appearance by smoothing out facial wrinkles and lines. These treatments are known for their ease and convenience of application and are suitable for a broad spectrum of patients. At Skinlogic in Severna Park, MD, we use neuromodulators to help address signs of aging or to simply refresh your appearance.
Understanding neuromodulators and how they can be part of your skincare routine is crucial. We will delve into the specifics of what neuromodulators are and address some myths surrounding them. Our aim is to provide clear, straightforward information to help you make informed decisions about your skincare.
What Are Neuromodulators?
Neuromodulators are treatments that interact with nerve signals in the facial muscles, leading to a reduction in the activity that causes wrinkles and fine lines. They are commonly used to address areas of the face that experience frequent muscle movements, such as the forehead and around the eyes.
A Guide to How Neuromodulators Work
Neuromodulators temporarily relax targeted facial muscles with the aim of wrinkle reduction. This relaxation prevents the skin from creasing, which, over time, results in a smoother complexion. The effects are gradual and become more apparent as the muscles learn to maintain a state of relaxation with ongoing treatments. It’s a process that doesn’t just conceal the signs of aging but also addresses the muscle activity at its source.
What Is the Difference Between Neuromodulators and Other Injectables?
Neuromodulators and other injectables like fillers serve different purposes in cosmetics. While neuromodulators focus on muscle activity to reduce wrinkles, fillers are designed to add volume and plump up areas that have lost fullness over time. The substances used in fillers are typically gel-like and aim to restore lost volume beneath the skin’s surface.
The Different Types of Neuromodulators
Botox®
Botox is one of the most recognized neuromodulators in cosmetic medicine. It has been extensively used for over two decades to smooth out forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines between the eyebrows. The treatment’s precision and consistent results make it a good choice for those looking to reduce visible signs of aging. Each session typically lasts a few months, offering a temporary reprieve from facial wrinkles.
Xeomin®
Xeomin is a type of neuromodulator that distinguishes itself by containing only one active ingredient without any additional proteins. This refined composition can be beneficial for patients who have developed resistance to other treatments over time. Xeomin is used to treat the same areas as Botox but might be more suitable for individuals seeking a purer formulation or a lighter treatment. It’s valued for its ability to smooth out lines while maintaining a natural look.
Dysport®
Dysport is another type of neuromodulator that is known for its swift onset and spreadability, which makes it ideal for treating larger areas like frown lines or forehead lines. Compared to Botox, Dysport may offer a quicker visible improvement, although individual results can vary.
Your Guide to the Neuromodulator Treatment Process
Choosing the Right Neuromodulator
Deciding on the right neuromodulator depends on your specific concerns, desired outcomes, and any previous experiences with such treatments. We can guide you toward the neuromodulator that aligns best with what you are looking for. We love using Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport because they each bring something different that we can offer our patients.
Pre-Treatment Steps
Before your neuromodulator treatment, it’s important to avoid medications and supplements that can increase bruising after injections, such as aspirin and fish oil, for a week if possible. You should always talk to your doctor before making any changes to your medication to make sure stopping them is safe for you. Preparing your skin according to your injector’s recommendations, such as by cleansing and avoiding certain skincare products, can help you get the most out of your treatment.
Your Treatment Session
During your neuromodulator treatment, we will cleanse the targeted areas and may use a topical anesthetic to enhance comfort. The treatment involves precise injections into specific facial muscles. The entire process typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the areas being treated. You should feel minimal discomfort, and you’re usually able to resume most of your daily activities immediately afterward.
Post-Treatment Care and Follow-Up
After receiving anti-aging injections, it’s normal to experience slight redness or swelling at the injection sites. To help your skin heal and get the best results, avoid rubbing treated areas for the first few hours and stay upright to prevent the neuromodulator from spreading to unintended muscles. Your provider may advise against strenuous physical activity for the rest of the day.
Evaluating Your Results and Scheduling Additional Appointments
The full effects of neuromodulator treatments typically take one to two weeks to appear. It’s important to evaluate your outcomes with us to make sure the desired results have been achieved. Depending on the type of neuromodulator used and your body’s response, you may need additional appointments to maintain the effects you are looking for. Scheduling regular follow-up treatments can help sustain your youthful appearance and promote the longevity of your results.
A Few Myths About Neuromodulators
- Myth: Neuromodulators Are Only for Older People: Neuromodulators can be used by individuals of various ages to both treat and prevent the formation of wrinkles. They are not exclusive to any age group and can be beneficial for anyone seeking to address facial lines and signs of aging.
- Myth: Neuromodulators Give You a “Frozen” Face: When administered properly, neuromodulator treatments aim for natural-looking wrinkle reduction, not a lack of facial expression. The goal is to soften lines while maintaining natural facial movements and expressions.
- Myth: Neuromodulators Are Painful: Most patients report minimal discomfort during neuromodulator treatment. The needles used are very fine, and the sessions are quick and may feel like a light pinch or minimal pressure.
- Myth: Once You Start, You Can’t Stop: Using anti-aging injections like neuromodulators doesn’t create a dependency. If you decide to stop treatment, your muscles’ activity will gradually return to normal, along with the reappearance of wrinkles. There’s no obligation to continue treatments indefinitely.
Learn More About Neuromodulators Today
Neuromodulators offer a versatile solution for signs of aging and enhancing natural beauty, tailored to meet individual needs and concerns. At Skinlogic in Severna Park, MD, we provide these treatments with precision and care so you can have satisfactory results. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at (410) 220-5499 or fill out a form on our website.
