While the idea may not appeal to needle-phobics, a growing number of people are exploring injectables as a way of improving their looks. By injecting substances and medicines into the body, it’s possible to reduce wrinkles, lose weight and even fight hair loss. This post explores some of the common injectables and their amazing cosmetic uses.
Botox
Botox involves injecting a toxin called botulinum into the body to temporarily paralyze muscles. Don’t worry – it’s not as scary as it sounds! The toxin is purified and carefully administered so that it only targets very specific muscles and nerves.
By relaxing muscles, Botox is able to treat many health conditions caused by muscle spasms or locked muscles such as eye twitches, TMJ disorders and even an overactive bladder. It can also fight dynamic wrinkles. These are wrinkles that form in our face when we make expressions. Examples of dynamic wrinkles that Botox can reduce include:
- Crow’s feet
- Forehead wrinkles
- Frown lines
- Smile lines
- Lip wrinkles
Botox typically lasts 3 to 4 months. It is important that it is administered by a qualified professional at a reputable clinic – this can reduce any unwanted side effects. Multiple wrinkles may be possible to target in a single session.
Fillers
Dermal fillers consist of a gel-like substance called hyaluronic acid, which is injected into the body to fill out a certain area. Fillers are perfectly safe on the body and are one of the top ways to fight wrinkles alongside Botox, while also having other cosmetic uses.
Just what are some of these cosmetic uses? By filling out areas under the skin, fillers can be used to reshape parts of the face, which can include:
- Softening deep wrinkles
- Filling out sagging areas
- Enhancing and plumping lips
- Combating eye bags
- Enhancing the jawline
- Reducing acne scarring
- Reshaping the nose (known as a non-surgical rhinoplasty)
Like Botox, fillers are not permanent. Most fillers last 6 to 24 months. During this period, the hyaluronic acid is gradually absorbed by the body.
Semaglutide
Semaglutide was introduced to the market as an anti-diabetic medication to help control blood sugar levels. In recent years, it has become more common as a weight loss medication – by suppressing the appetite and speeding up the metabolism, semaglutide can reduce food cravings and lead to more burned calories.
Weight loss can have many physical health benefits. However, it can also improve many people’s self confidence as a result of making them feel better about their appearance. Dieting and exercise are still required to see results, however semaglutide injections could lead to more rapid weight loss.
Semaglutide is sold under several brand names – the most famous being Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelus. It is worth comparing different sites and brands to find the best online semaglutide program.
PRP
PRP (platelet rich plasma) injections involve using a patient’s own blood to help with healing and rejuvenation.
PRP therapy is commonly used to help with recovery after plastic surgery or jaw operations. It can also be used to speed up healing to damaged ligaments and tendons. However, one of its most popular cosmetic uses is reducing hair loss and preventing premature balding.
By injecting concentrated platelets under the skin, PRP therapy can stimulate hair follicles and promote regrowth of hair. While it typically does not work on areas that have been bald for some time, PRP therapy can be effective at increasing hair regrowth in areas that are thinning or have recently started to become patchy. It is also sometimes recommended immediately after a hair transplant to reduce the risk of the body rejecting hair.
A healthcare professional will be able to tell you if you are a suitable candidate for PRP therapy. Other non-injectable treatments may also be possible to consider if you’re looking for ways to combat premature hair loss.
Conclusion
There are other injectable medications that may be able to treat other cosmetic issues such as injections for acne and eczema. It is worth talking to a dermatologist about these available options.
The likes of Botox and fillers are typically suitable for most candidates without requiring any prescription. Semaglutide and PRP therapy on the other hand often require talking to a health professional who will make sure that you meet certain requirements.
Unlike surgery, injectables are non-invasive and often more affordable while not requiring a lengthy recovery period either. That said, many injectables are only temporary or may still require ongoing lifestyle changes to have long-term benefits. Weigh this up when deciding whether to choose injectables or whether to go under the knife.
