young woman in a botox treatment

Botox Statistics and Trends for 2023

Botox General Public / By  marketing_team

03 May

From an accidental discovery, through an eye-sight medication, to the hottest product in the world of non-surgical cosmetics, Botox needs no special introduction. 

Based on botulinum toxin type A, this product has been a topic of interest for millions of people worldwide and has found its way into pop culture, including “Sex and the City” and similar TV shows.

Today we will look at the latest Botox statistics, examining the growing popularity of this treatment, as well as its various uses and demographics. Continue reading to learn more about the industry around this product.

Botox Usage Statistics

We first need to analyze the current market trends to get the full perspective on how widely accepted Botox is as a cosmetic product. In this section, we will look at the number of procedures performed each year, the frequency of Botox treatments, and the average costs that patients can expect.

1. Plastic surgeons perform 6.2 million Botox procedures annually.

(Statista)

Botox is still the dominant non-surgical aesthetic procedure. According to statistics, it’s in front of hyaluronic dermal fillers, hair removal procedures, and even fat reduction procedures. While this number is several hundred percent higher than at the turn of the century, it’s slightly lower than Botox stats from 2017. That year alone, over 7 million people underwent the procedure.

2. In the United States alone, over 3.6 million people get Botox yearly.

(Statista)

The US continues to be the leading market for neurotoxins, including Botox. Just like it’s dominant on the global scale, Botox is the leading treatment in the US, too, and twice as popular as hyaluronic-based dermal fillers

3. On average, a single Botox procedure costs $409.

(Statista)

Some good news for patients looking into getting Botox – it’s now among the more affordable cosmetic procedures, especially the nonsurgical ones. For example, getting Botox is more affordable than getting hyaluronic-based dermal fillers, making it an obvious choice for patients on a tighter budget.

4. Regular Botox patients undergo the treatment every four months.

(Advanced Dermatology Center)

Like every cosmetic procedure, Botox doesn’t last forever. If patients want to maintain their youthful look and stay wrinkle-free, they must regularly visit their cosmetic surgeon and redo their Botox treatments. So how often do people get Botox? Every four months, it turns out. But, it’s worth mentioning that patients who regularly do Botox take longer breaks between their treatments.

5. Practitioners inject between 10 and 30 units of Botox per appointment.

(Healthline)

Each part of the face requires a different amount of Botox. On top of that, the patient’s age and state of facial features also dictate how much Botox the injector has to administer during an appointment. For patients who have never had this procedure, standard practice is to start at a lower dosage and then proceed to manufacturer-recommended dosages if the patient is satisfied with the initial effects.

Botox Demographics

We’ve already seen how many people get Botox, and the industry around botulinum toxins is growing exponentially. Let’s then dive deeper and see who are the people who have this procedure done.

6. 79% of surveyed Americans know about Botox or have undergone this treatment.

(Statista)

The American population, specifically women, is well aware of Botox and the procedures involving this product. Only 21% of surveyed people said they have never heard about it, while 15% said they either have done Botox or are planning to. This all shows that the popularity of Botox has never been higher.

7. Among Botox patients, 94% are women.

(American Society of Plastic Surgeons)

It comes as no surprise that Botox is more popular among the female population. After all, most beauty products are. Still, the difference between how many women get Botox and how many men do this procedure is astounding. Botox treatments for men exist and provide as good results as those for women, but their popularity among the male population is still stagnating.

8. Most Botox patients, 57%, are between 40 and 54 years old.

(American Society of Plastic Surgeons)

The average age for Botox patients has been shifting these past several years. Previously, the majority of people that decided to get Botox were in their 30s, but nowadays, the patients are in their late 40s and early 50s. Just 1% of patients are under 30 years old, while patients aged 55 and over comprise 23% of all Botox patients.

9. The majority of Botox patients are Caucasian – 82% of them.

(American Society of Plastic Surgeons)

Another surprising statistic is that very few BIPOC people undergo cosmetic treatments, including Botox injections. The vast majority of patients are Caucasian, while African-Americans and Asian Americans account for 4% of patients each. The Hispanic population accounts for 7% of Botox patients, with other ethnicities accounting for the remaining 3%.

10. 96% of Botox patients say they are satisfied with the results.

(Statista)

Clearly, the more a product is on the market, the more it’s refined, and the more people will be satisfied with it. Over the past few decades, surgeons and medical practitioners have perfected their Botox injection techniques and now provide their patients with near-perfect facelift results.

Botox Facts and History

Despite being around for a few decades, Botox hasn’t always been popular. In fact, for a long time, the public frowned upon the mention of this drug. So, when did Botox become popular, and what can it cure now? Read on.

11. Botox was originally called Oculinum and was used for treating crossed eyes.

(TIME Magazine)

An ophthalmologist actually invented Botox, Dr. Alan B. Scott, who was looking for a cure for the cross-eyed disorder strabismus. In 1978, he introduced the drug Oculinum to the public, and in 1989, the drug became FDA-certified for treating cross-eyedness. Later on, Dr. Scott sold his company to Allergan, who renamed the drug Botox.

12. In 2002, Botox got FDA approval for treating fine lines and wrinkles.

(TIME Magazine)

We could consider this the turning point for Botox, and the moment it became popular. During the 90s, Allergan examined the effectiveness of botulinum toxin in cosmetic procedures. By the time it got its certification, the drug was already making a $310 million annual profit to the manufacturer.

13. Botox treats almost 800 different physical issues, not just cosmetic ones.

(TIME Magazine)

Over the years, a question arose – why do people get Botox? It turns out that the answer to this question is “for pretty much anything.” Botox has been found to cure excessive sweating, back pain, migraines, overactive bladder, neck spasms, and even erectile dysfunction. Nearly every procedure that includes muscle relaxation turned out to be compatible with this drug, allowing doctors around the world to provide relief to their patients in multiple ways.

14. The market value of Botox is $2.2 billion.

(US Securities and Exchange Commission)

Over the past two decades, such massive growth has led to quite a turnover for the manufacturers of botulinum toxin injections. With patients spending more than $2 billion a year on Botox, this procedure now accounts for 10% of all plastic surgery earnings.

15. The most common Botox injection sites are the forehead, chin, and neck.

(Westlake Dermatology)

Facial features are the most commonly treated with Botox. Using this injectable, plastic surgeons can treat anything from crow’s feet and gummy smiles to nasolabial folds. Depending on the treated area, the amount of Botox required for treatment varies from 2 to 4 units up to 50 units.

Conclusion

As you can see, we’re no longer wondering “how common is Botox,” but instead trying to find even more uses for this substance. With massive market growth during the 21st century and affordable prices, Botox is truly the signature drug of this millennium.

FAQ

Is Botox becoming more common?

Yes, absolutely. Millions of people around the world get Botox each year, and the drug has found more applications besides cosmetic treatments. Within the first 15 years of the 21st century, the number of Botox patients grew by 759%.

What percentage of 30-year-olds get Botox?

Thirty-year-olds aren’t getting Botox as much as their older peers. This demographic accounts for 18% of all Botox patients. People in their forties and early fifties are the most frequent patients.

How many people do Botox a year?

According to the latest Botox statistics, over 6 million people a year do Botox. This number oscillates year-by-year and has reached 7 million at one point, but ‌the number of people interested in this procedure is steadily increasing.

 

Sources:

Advanced Dermatology Center

American Society of Plastic Surgeons

Healthline
Statista

TIME Magazine

US Securities and Exchange Commission

A young woman receives the medical spa procedure

10+ Fascinating Medical Spa Industry Statistics

General Public / By  Forga Team

25 Apr

For millions worldwide, medical spas have become part of their routine, like visiting a dentist. As a result, there have been massive changes in the med spa and wellness industries.

Nowadays, people prefer to get their facelifts and other non-invasive procedures done in medical spas.

Going into 2023, every med spa owner and medical professional needs to know these essential medical spa industry statistics.

Size and Growth of the Industry

The industry of medical spas is experiencing its peak period right now. After its humble beginnings in the 1990s, the popularity of med spas and treatments provided at these locations has skyrocketed in the past decade. So, let’s examine the market size, its growth in the US, and the revenue this industry generates.

The global medical spa market is valued at $16.4 billion.

(Grand View Research)

The medical spa industry statistics for 2023 reveal that the value of this market is at an all-time high. Consumers are aware of wellness trends and anti-aging services these facilities provide, attributing to constant market growth. Wellness tourism has additionally become a significant contributing factor to the development of this industry, as people are willing to travel across the country – or even the globe – to get treatment at a med spa.

The US contributes the most to the global market, with $5.6 billion.

(Grand View Research)

It is no surprise that the United States continues to be the epicenter of this industry. The beauty treatments provided at med spas have always been popular‌, and Americans were usually the first to embrace visiting spas for various medical treatments.

There are 8,841 registered medical spas in the US.

(American Med Spa Association)

Continuing on from the previous data about the medical spa market size in the US, the number of medical spas is constantly growing, following the market demand. According to the data from 2022, there are nearly 9,000 spas across the country. Compared to the data from the year before, when there were 7,430 spas, the year-on-year growth is around 20%. Impressive, to say the least.

Non-surgeons own 63% of medical spas.

(American Med Spa Association)

Most medical spas in the United States are registered as small businesses, usually owned by a single person. What’s interesting, though, is that the owners typically aren’t physicians or surgeons themselves; the medical practitioners don’t have the core ownership of the facility. But, medical spas still have to appoint medical personnel and licensed healthcare professionals to perform the procedures.

The med spa industry employs over 70,000 people.

(American Med Spa Association)

This industry is constantly creating new jobs for medically trained personnel. With so many medical spas nationwide, the demand for experienced employees is growing. As for the salaries, they range from $80,348 to $120,691 for full-time employees.

On average, a med spa generates $121,623 in monthly revenue.

(American Med Spa Association)

Another trend directly tied to the industry’s growth is the revenue of medical spas. It has been steadily rising these past years, and in 2023, a med spa typically earns $1.9 million annually. Considering how many med spas are in the US, the competition has benefited everyone involved in this industry.

Per visit, patients spend $536 at medical spas.

(American Med Spa Association)

Patients are also spending more on medical spa treatments. During the pandemic years (2020-2022), the amount patients spent per visit grew by roughly 20%. On average, a medical spa gets 283 non-surgical visits a month, which, considering the average spend, translates to the average med spa revenue mentioned above.

Demographics of Medical Spa Customers

Now we will delve into the latest statistics and trends on medical spa customers, including their gender, age, and patient retention rates.

Men account for only 12% of med spa patients.

(American Med Spa Association)

Analysts predicted that the percentage of men visiting med spas would increase. However, we have seen no change in trends in recent years. Even though certain procedures cater to men now, women still make up the majority of med spa patients.

78% of med spa patients are under 55 years old.

(American Med Spa Association)

So, we’ve already established that the average med spa patient is female. Also, most patients are 54 or younger, with the majority aged 35-54. Here’s what the medical spa statistics look like based on the patient’s age:

• 18–34 years old: 26% of female patients.

• 35–54 years old: 52% of female patients.

• 55 or older: 21% of female patients.

 

65% of patients return to the same spa for further treatments.

(American Med Spa Association)

Patient retention is exceptionally high, another factor in the industry’s growth. Over the past years, the percentage of patients who return to a med spa for another treatment has sat at 65-66%. This has allowed med spa owners to rely on a steady income, and have predictable revenue throughout the year.

Popular Services and Treatments

The market might be growing steadily, but medical spa trends are constantly shifting. What used to be the most popular procedure last year can easily be forgotten because another product or procedure has taken over the market. In this section, we’ll look at the trends that dominate the industry today.

94% of medical spas offer facial injectables.

(American Med Spa Association)

Dermal fillers have become all the rage for a facelift. The manufacturers constantly compete, offering better prices and longer-lasting effects. Since the procedure is quick, visiting a med spa to get a Belotero treatment, Bellafill, or Juvederm injection has become incredibly popular. Nearly all med spas offer them.

Chemical peels are the most popular medical spa service, accounting for 85% of all treatments.

(American Med Spa Association)

Skin treatments are the leading reason people visit med spas, and they’re what most consider the main service of such facilities. But medical spas also offer Botox injectionsdermal fillers, laser hair removal, and treatments using Intense-pulsed light (IPL) technology, to name a few.

These are the top 10 medical spa treatments, according to the medical spa global market research:

1. Chemical peels

2. Aesthetician services

3. Botox and filler injections

4. Microdermabrasion

5. Photo-facial pulsed light (IPL)

6. Skin tightening

7. Body contouring

8. Laser skin resurfacing

9. Medical consultations with licensed MD

10. Radiofrequency

Future Outlook

For med spa owners, the future is bright. As we’ve already seen, the demand for spas and their services is increasing, and the market has continuously grown. Here’s what the analysts and med spa owners say about this industry’s future.

The medical spa market’s value is expected to grow to $41.37 billion by the decade’s end.

(Data Bridge Market Research

The demand for med spa services won’t dwindle this decade; it will increase even further. According to researchers, the market value will grow by the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.10% in the forecast period ending in 2029. That means the value of the medical spa industry will more than double during this decade.

88% of med spa owners expect their businesses to grow in the upcoming period.

(American Med Spa Association)

Med spa owners also agree with these predictions, and the vast majority expect to see their businesses grow. Of those who answered the survey optimistically, 74% said their expected business growth was 10% or higher. Business owners in the med spa world are optimistic ‌about the future; especially having successfully overcome the difficulties encountered during the initial year of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

The med spa growth & profitability has become a constant of sorts. Year after year, we’ve witnessed the industry grow beyond what was considered possible just a decade ago. With the world of wellness and skincare following this trend, it’s safe to say that medical spas will continue to be incredibly popular in the future.

FAQ

Is the med spa industry growing?

Yes, the industry is growing rapidly. The number of medical spas increased by around 20% in the past year, while the industry is expected to more than double its value by 2030.

Are medical spas profitable?

Medical spas can be considered a profitable business with a steady income stream. Most patients who visit such locations are eager to repeat their visits.

How big is the medical spa industry?

The industry is worth over $16 billion and has recorded constant growth over the last several years. There are over 8,800 medical spas in the United States alone, providing jobs for 70,000 people and generating around $2 million in revenue annually.

Sources:

American Med Spa Association
Data Bridge Market Research
Grand View Research

*Disclaimer: The contents of this article are not to be constructed as medical advice but for informational purposes only. MedicaDepot staff does not review any of these articles for medical validity. Opinions and views expressed in this article are not endorsed by MedicaDepot. Please always consult your doctor for professional medical advice.

A doctor injects Botox in a woman`s temple zone and explains professional tips for Treating Crow’s Feet with Botox

Professional Tips for Treating Crow’s Feet with Botox

General Public / By  John Adams

30 Sep

Containing botulinum toxin type A as its active ingredient, Botox is one of the most popular aesthetic injectables among patients. Today, Botox treatment is available in more than 78 countries worldwide, including the United Kingdom, Canada, and other countries in South America, Asia, and Europe. The mechanism by which Botox acts is fairly simple: It blocks the signals of the motor nerve cells, thereby paralyzing the muscle. More specifically, Botox binds to the motor nerve terminals to inhibit the release of acetylcholine (ACh), a neurotransmitter that modulates muscle contraction, which results in a partial chemical denervation that reduces muscle activity.

Botox is used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. Such conditions include spasticity, overactive bladder, cervical dystonia, urinary incontinence, blepharospasm, and migraines. Botox also has a long history of use in aesthetic medicine, where its application is thoroughly wide-ranging in use. In this respect, Botox is indicated for the treatment of adults with moderate to severe forehead lines related to frontalis muscle activity, glabellar lines related to procerus or corrugator muscle activity, and/or moderate to severe lateral canthal lines, which is a condition more commonly known as crow’s feet.

Botox treatment for crow’s feet

Using fine needles, Botox is administered directed into the area of the face afflicted with crow’s feet. A topical anesthetic can be used to numb the area prior to the procedure, with the treatment able to commence once the skin near the eyes is numb. Due to the small facial area that crow’s feet cover, the treatment will only take a few minutes to complete.

In comparison to other aesthetic procedures, most patients do not experience any downtime after the procedure. While it is okay to wash the face and wear makeup right after treatment, patients are advised not to rub the skin in the eye area, as this can cause Botox to move away from the treatment site.

Who is a candidate for this procedure?

Treating crow’s feet with Botox is ideal for patients who suffer from a moderate to severe form of the affliction. Designed for patients who prefer a non-invasive anti-aging intervention, Botox injections are associated with minimal pain and discomfort. Botox injections only take a few minutes to complete, making it ideal for patients with a busy lifestyle. In fact, many patients choose to have Botox injections during their lunch break. With a low risk of complications and virtually no downtime required, most patients are able to return to work right after a Botox procedure.

Despite being safe, however, there are some circumstances where the use of Botox is not advised. For example, only adult patients 18 years old and up should use Botox to treat crow’s feet, as the safety of Botox has not been scientifically verified for people younger than 18. Likewise, patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should refrain from using Botox (unless the potential benefits outweigh the harms) because there has been a lack of research on the potential side effects. Also, Botox is contraindicated for individuals who have an allergy to botulinum toxin; other botulinum toxin formulations, such as Xeomin and Dysport; or any other inactive ingredients in the formulation. Patients whose treatment site is infected should also avoid using Botox.

Tips for treating crow’s feet

Botox dosage

Most patients only need a small dose of Botox for efficacious treatment. For wrinkles near the eyes, the recommended dose of Botox is 10 units, with five units for each side of the eye. Allergan, the manufacturer of Botox, recommends a dose of 24 units for treatment of crow’s feet. When used in combination with treatment for glabellar lines, the total recommended dose is 44 units, with 20 units dedicated to the treatment for glabellar lines and 24 units dedicated to the treatment of lateral canthal lines. The cumulative dose of Botox in a period of three months should not exceed 400 units under any circumstances. Inappropriate dosing of Botox may cause harm to the patients.

 

Injection Technique

Appropriate injection technique is crucial to achieve satisfactory treatment. Lateral canthal lines are usually caused by the activities of the orbicularis oculi muscles near the eye, which are responsible for eyelid closure and blinking. Over time, the forceful contraction of the orbicularis oculi will lead to the formation of radially oriented folds. The radial lines (or crow’s feet) usually originate from the lateral canthus and have different distribution patterns among individuals. When administering Botox, the needle bevel should be up and positioned away from the eyes. Inject four units of 0.1ml of reconstituted Botox into six injection sites in the lateral orbicularis oculi muscle, with three sites on each side of the muscle. The first Botox injection should be temporal to the lateral canthus (and just temporal to the orbital rim. Refer to the prescribing information for more details.

When injecting Botox for crow’s feet, keep in mind that Botox is not interchangeable with other botulinum toxin-based formulations, such as Xeomin and Dysport. Being specific to its preparation method, the units of biological activities of Botox cannot be converted into units of other botulinum toxin injection, which are produced through a different assay method. The effective and safe use of Botox depends mainly upon the administration technique. To ensure patient safety, practitioners should have a good understanding of structural and neuromuscular anatomy of the treatment area. In addition, practitioners should be aware of any anatomical alteration caused by diseases or previous surgeries.

Results Duration

While its effects are not permanent, Botox is designed to deliver long lasting results. In fact, a 2016 study that involving more than 1,300 participants showed that Botox can last up to four months. For longer lasting results, consider combining Botox with other treatments such as laser treatments.

It takes around three days for Botox to produce visible results around the eye. For optimal results, patients should continue to receive Botox injections every few months.

Side Effects of Botox

While generally well-tolerated by most patients, Botox can potentially cause undesirable reactions. Some of the common side effects of Botox are droopy eyelids, dryness (particularly near the injection site), excessive tearing in the eyes, headaches, and crooked eyebrows.

In addition, some patients may experience swelling and redness near the eyes, and skin bruising may occasionally occur.

To minimize side effects, only use Botox within the recommended dosage, as using more than the recommended amount may result in undesirable effects. Avoid using Botox in contraindicated individuals, especially those who have hypersensitivity to botulinum toxin or any other botulinum toxin preparations.

Expected results

Being efficacious and safe, Botox has an edge over conventional crow’s feet treatments like prescription retinoids, dermabrasion, and chemical peels. Many patients and dermatologists have attested to the age-defying effects of Botox. Fight crow’s feet with Botox and help your patients look young again.

A curly-haired woman explains similarities and differences between Fortelis and Juvederm

Fortelis vs Juvederm: Similarities and Differences Explained

General Public / By  John Adams

28 Sep

Each year, more and more soft tissue fillers are making it to market to cater for the ever-increasing demand. The sheer number of dermal fillers and their wide variety of applications can sometimes make it challenging to select the most appropriate dermal filler for the job at hand. With this in mind, this article will compare and contrast two popular dermal fillers: Fortelis vs Juvederm.To begin with, let’s take a closer look at each of the fillers discussed here individually.

Fortelis Extra: Developed in 2007, Fortelis Extra was produced after the successful release of its related products, Esthelis Soft and Basic. While Fortelis Extra is made using the same technology as its predecessors, its high hyaluronic acid concentration and high degree of cross-linkage makes it best suited for the correction of deep wrinkles, such as nasolabial folds. Fortelis Extra has special properties that enables it to optimally fill furrows and folds, which is aided by its ability to maintain excellent tissue integration. This also helps make Fortelis Extra a filler that creates predictable, natural looking-results. Treatment with Fortelis Extra is associated with a minimal risk of local inflammatory reactions compared to other dermal filler treatments. It produces results that can last for up to 12 months.

Comparisons between Fortelis Extra with other fillers n ote overall better results with the use of Fortelis Extra. For instance, in a study found that Fortelis Extra gave better results when compared to Restylane Lyft in terms of reducing wrinkle severity in nasolabial folds and that a higher number of patients were satisfied with the treatment and would repeat the treatment course. In fact, 80% of patients treated with Fortelis Extra felt this way, while only 65% of subjects who received Restylane Lyft treatment felt the same with their treatment.

Juvederm: Ever since their first dermal filler was approved in 2007, Juvederm has expanded their portfolio to include a wide variety of products that can be used in a multitude of aesthetic applications, ranging from correcting minor lines and wrinkles to providing substantial volumization. Of the products in this range, comparable fillers to Fortelis Extra include Juvederm Vollure and Juvederm Ultra Plus XC. Both Juvederm Vollure and Ultra Plus XC can be used for filling severe skin depressions; however, Juvederm Vollure causes less swelling and typically lasts longer than Juvederm Ultra Plus. Both products are classified as monophasic, monodensified fillers, which mean that they have a uniform gel density. Products made using both Hylacross and Vycross Technology have the best of both worlds: they are soft and malleable, so as to produce natural results, yet elastic enough to provide the lift and support needed to effectively correct the aesthetic defect(s).

Similarities and Differences between Fortelis Extra and Juvederm Ultra Plus XC and Vollure

Fortelis Extra is primarily used for lip enhancement and to fill and lift severe lines and folds. Juvederm Ultra Plus XC and Juvederm Vollure have similar indications as well.

While monodensified fillers like Juvederm are cross-linked once, polydensified fillers are cross-linked continuously, resulting in a gel with non-uniform cross-linking and lower viscosity than other fillers. Studies that investigated the rheological properties of hyaluronic gel fillers demonstrate that fillers made with CPM Technology, such as Fortelis, are completely cohesive (they do not break under pressure) and integrate fully with epidermal tissue. These features of Fortelis Extra allow for more heterogeneous distribution of material when compared with products prepared using Vycross Technology. This uniform integration of filler in skin also has the added benefit of reducing the occurrence of the Tyndall effect, a complication that can occur with some fillers where particles in the filler scatters light in its path, causing a bluish discoloration. The Tyndall effect is apparent when a filler is placed too superficially, as happens frequently in the treatment of the under-eye area. For this reason, a filler, like Fortelis Extra, that does not cause this complication is particularly useful for treating areas that are predisposed to producing this effect.

Fortelis and Juvederm treatments also differ in other aspects, such as the cost of treatment and longevity. In general, Fortelis does not last as long as Juvederm Vollure, as Fortelis treatments can generally last up to a year, while Juvederm Vollure is able to last up to 18 months. However, Fortelis is cheaper in cost.

Conclusion

As a dermal filler that is produced with unique CPM Technology, Fortelis Extra possesses several physical characteristics that provide added benefits in dermal filler treatment, including a softer look, lowered likelihoods of complications like swelling and Tyndall effect occurrences, and cheaper cost. However, Juvederm Vollure outperforms Fortelis in terms of longevity. These factors should inform the decision-making process when selecting the right product for the patient.

A beautiful smiling lips after treatment with Volbella or Juvederm

Volbella vs Juvederm: Better Product to Treat Your Lips

General Public / By  John Adams

28 Sep

Juvederm Volbella, a dermal filler product in the Juvederm family, is a filler that is manufactured using cutting-edge Vycross Technology. As a low-viscosity hyaluronic acid filler, Juvederm Volbella is designed to be soft and spreadable for complete and even integration with treated tissue. Many patients may not have a complete understanding of what Juvederm Volbella can achieve in comparison with other Juvederm products, as it is a relatively new product. Here, we take an in-depth look at this lip filler to rectify this issue.

Where and how should you use Juvederm Volbella?

Juvederm Volbella is indicated for treating lips and for correcting wrinkles around the mouth. In a study evaluating the effectiveness of Juvederm Volbella for lip enhancement, it was found that Juvederm Volbella was as effective as Restylane-L and results in less swelling. When treating the lips, Juvederm Volbella gives optimal results when used subcutaneously to coat the orbicularis oris muscle in the cutaneous lip and vermillion. By doing this, the filler hydrates and fills in fine perioral lines in a natural manner that does not look overdone and unnatural.

In addition to these indications, Juvederm Volbella may also be safely used to correct superficial wrinkles in other regions. It can also be used to treat the following:

• The glabella region, the forehead, tear trough region, the decollete, and oral commissures;

• Crow’s feet lines and infraorbital hollowing, and fine cheek accordion lines.

• Juvederm Volbella can be administered with a needle if treating targeted lines or with a cannula to minimize bruising and swelling when treating areas like the under-eye region. Suitable injection techniques for this filler include tunneling, serial puncture, fanning, or a combination of the above.

What is the difference between Hylacross products and Vycross products?

The Juvederm portfolio includes products that are manufactured with one of two technologies: Vycross or Hylacross. Juvederm fillers made with former include Juvederm Voluma, Vollure, and Volbella, while the Hylacross products include Juvederm Ultra and Ultra Plus. Hylacross products are made of highly cross-linked high molecular weight strands of hyaluronic acid, whereas Vycross products consist of a mixture of low and high molecular weight hyaluronic acid. The different compositions of Hylacross and Vycross affect their behavior in tissue and, in turn, the clinical effects they produce.

For one, Vycross products do not expand as much as Hylacross products when implanted in the skin, so they do not cause as much swelling. As a result of this, the  risk of side effects is minimal, and both the practitioner and patent can be assured that they will get a “what you see is what you get” result with a Vycross product, such as Volbella. Furthermore, as Juvederm Volbella diffuses easily, the likelihood of Tyndall effect occurring with this filler is low. Vycross products have a relatively high G prime with a lower level of cohesivity, resulting in a higher level of malleability for these products when compared to the Hylacross products with similar indications.

How does Juvederm Volbella compare with the rest of the Juvederm Vycross range?

With a low hyaluronic acid concentration (15mg/ml), a low G prime, and low cohesivity, Juvederm Volbella Is the thinnest and most spreadable of the Vycross formulations. While a high viscosity dermal filler like Voluma is suitable for deep injections to volumize and lift the skin and a cohesive yet malleable filler like Juvederm Vollure is able to treat severe wrinkles while maintaining the face’s natural dynamics, a thin, easily diffused gel like Juvederm Volbella is ideal for superficial injection into the lips, perioral lines, and minor wrinkles.

Which is the better product for treating the lips?

Other Juvederm products, such as Juvederm Ultra XC, can also be used in the lips; however, the purposes for which a dermal filler treatment is given is key to determining which product should be used. Juvederm Volbella has a thin and spreadable consistency. When used in the lips, it provides a high-quality finish and is used to add subtle volume for minor corrections or adjustments. Juvederm Ultra XC is a more cohesive gel and thus is more suited to adding fullness to thin lips. Not only that, Juvederm Ultra XC is approved for other uses, including the correction of medium to deep facial wrinkles. Both Juvederm Ultra XC and Juvederm Volbella have similar durations of action of about one year. Ultimately, the choice of filler will depend on the patient’s aesthetic aims. For instance, some patients may find that the subtle effect that Volbella gives is insufficient; conversely, others may find the natural enhancement to be exactly what they were looking for. In all cases, a patient should receive advice from an experienced injector on the right filler to use.

Conclusion

The Vycross range of products ae a recent addition to the Juvederm family. Juvederm Volbella is the softest of these fillers and is useful for superficial placement to correct fine lines and for indications that require small volumes of filler. As with other Vycross products, Juvederm Volbella does not swell to a substantial degree and is malleable, making it useful to treat delicate areas with thin skin, like the under eye and forehead regions.

A pretty woman touches her lips treated with Restylane based on professional tips

Restylane for Lips: Professional Tips

General Public / By  John Adams

28 Sep

With the advent of cosmetic injectables, lip augmentation has become the leading aesthetic enhancement procedure that uses dermal fillers. There are many advantages to using injectable fillers for lip augmentation, not least because it is a convenient and simple procedure for the patient that gives immediate, visible results. The lips are an important facial feature, and age often thins the lips as volume is lost through various intrinsic factors, including the depletion of hyaluronic acid from tissue. Patients also seek enhancement due to the perception (especially in western culture) of full, well-defined lips as the societal standard of beauty and youth. Lastly, some patients look to cosmetic injections to improve various defects of their lip that are not necessarily age-related. This includes problems with asymmetry, disproportion, a flattened Cupid’s bow, or an undefined lip border.

Professional tips: choosing Restylane for lips

If your patient has been thinking about getting lip injections, chances are they would have heard of Restylane. As the first hyaluronic acid dermal filler available on the market, Restylane enjoys a solid reputation as a dermal filler that is effective and consistent in giving natural-looking results, and is especially famed for its use in lip enhancement procedures. Restylane refers to a portfolio of dermal fillers, each with their own specific application and indication. These fillers are manufactured through one of two proprietary processes, Optimal Balance Technology (known in the United States as XpresHAn technology) or Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid (NASHA) Technology, to produce hyaluronic acid gels, each with their own set of unique properties to address specific aesthetic concerns, from lifting and volumizing, to skin rejuvenation and conditioning.

Which Restylane filler is best for lips?

The product used to treat the lips will depend on the patient’s aesthetic needs. Typically, younger patients are looking at some form of enhancement in the size and shape of the lips, whereas lip treatment older individuals tend to be corrective to restore volume to the lips. When it comes to augmenting the lips, the products that are most suitable to treat the lips include Restylane (to add subtle fullness to the lips) and Restylane Silk (for defining the border, and also to treat fine lines around the mouth).

Restylane for lips treatment

A patient looking to treat their lips with Restylane should, before anything else, seek consultation with an experienced, board-certified doctor who can evaluate and determine if treatment with Restylane is right for them. A typical injection session will take 20–30 minutes and can be performed at the doctor’s office. The lips are a particularly sensitive and delicate area to treat, as such it is very likely that some form of pain management strategy is required to make the patient comfortable throughout the procedure. Some options include applying a numbing cream, administering a nerve block, or injections of local anesthetic. After treatment, results are immediately noticeable, and recovery period is not necessary.

Augmenting the lips using Restylane can offer many benefits with little drawbacks for the majority of patients. With the right dermal filler treatment in the hands of a qualified and experienced injector, the patient can experience a comfortable treatment with successful outcomes.

A pretty woman in a wide hat explains the Similarities and Differences between Amalian and Juvederm

Amalian vs Juvederm: Similarities and Differences Explained

General Public / By  John Adams

27 Sep

If you have heard of Amalian fillers, you may have wondered how they compare to a more popular brand like Juvederm. Here, we take an in-depth look at this German brand of implantable gels and see how they fare against the Juvederm range.The products that make up the Amalian and Juvederm range are aesthetic treatments known as dermal fillers, which are gels that are injected into the skin to add volume to the skin in order to plump and firm it This volumization helps to counteract signs of skin aging such as wrinkles and volume loss. On average, these fillers provide results that are able to last anywhere between six months up to over a year.

Dermal fillers are a popular non-surgical approach to facial rejuvenation known as cosmetic injectables. Other anti-wrinkle treatments like neurotoxins (e.g. Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin) also belong to this group. Cosmetic injectables have become one of the most common aesthetic procedures carried out in doctors’ offices and is often offered as an alternative to surgical approaches such as facelifts and rhinoplasty.

Amalian and Juvederm have the following elements in common:

• Both are brands of gels that are made of highly purified, chemically modified hyaluronic acid. This compound is a naturally occurring substance that hydrates and plumps skin thanks to its water-retaining abilities.

• Both have products in their ranges to cater to an assortment of aesthetic deficiencies, including moderate to severe wrinkles, thinning lips, and acne scars. These brands are able to treat different deficiencies because their respective fillers have different particle sizes, degrees of cross-linking, and hyaluronic acid concentrations.

• Both are administered by injection.

• Both Amalian and Juvederm fillers can be used for similar indications, including treating facial lines and wrinkles, nasolabial folds, treating the tear trough, and sculpting the nose and mid-face region, to name a few.

• Both treatments are reversible should the patient be dissatisfied with their results.

Amalian is not as widely known as Juvederm, so does that mean Juvederm is better?

Not necessarily. Before making any conclusions though, let’s look at the differences between the fillers first. The Amalian brand originates from Germany, is manufactured by S&V Technologies, and is currently mainly distributed in Europe. Juvederm is made by Allergan and has products that are FDA-approved, allowing them to be used in the United States and other world markets.

Amalian has both monophasic and biphasic ranges of dermal fillers. The monophasic range, which is named LT, consists of homogenous fillers with varying concentrations of hyaluronic acid; each formulation is specially designed to treat a specific indication. On the other hand, the biphasic range of dermal fillers consist of fillers gels made of highly cross-linked hyaluronic acid with strong elasticity and volumizing properties, making these fillers more appropriate for deeper placement and for indications requiring support and lift.

In contrast, Juvederm products are manufactured using Hylacross or Vycross Technology; the former cross-links hyaluronic acid molecules of the same weight, while the latter cross-links both high- and low-molecular-weight molecules.

Differences between Amalian vs Juvederm

One key difference between Amalian and Juvederm products that can be attributed to the differences in their manufacturing processes are their propensities for swelling. Amalian products are produced using what is known as Core-in-Shell Technology, which results in a formulation that contains highly cross-linked hyaluronic acid particles that are surrounded by a “shell” of long chains of non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid chains that work to form protective layers around each particle. The non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid chains facilitate injection and, more importantly, form a stable aqueous shell around each cross-linked particle that essentially hydrate the preparation. This means that the gel will not absorb any more water when injected and will not expand, thus minimizing the occurrence adverse events like swelling. On the other hand, Juvederm products are not fully hydrated and will slightly expand within 24 hours after injection. It is common practice when using Juvederm products to slightly undercorrect in order to allow for their expansion, especially when treating the lips.

While not as well-known as Juvederm, the clinical trials into Amalian products attest to their efficacy, and this brand has a positive reputation with patients who have been treated with it. In particular, Amalian is known to provide natural-looking results when used to enhance the lips.

It certainly cannot be disputed that Juvederm is the more popular of the two, with the brand being a mainstay in facial aesthetics and, in many cases, synonymous with dermal filler treatments itself. Amalian is also harder to source, as it is not available in key markets like the United States.

Conclusion

Both Amalian and Juvederm are brands of dermal fillers that aid in facial rejuvenation. These two brands of hyaluronic acid gels are similar to each other in terms of performance, treatment outcomes, and safety and efficacy profiles. Since there have not been any studies conducted to date that directly compare these two brands, it is important to seek the input of a qualified doctor before deciding on which brand to use.

The one light bulb is off and the second one is on symbolises The Differences between Radiesse and Restylane

The Differences between Radiesse and Restylane

General Public / By  John Adams

27 Sep

The cosmetic injectable industry is enjoying massive growth in recent times due to increasing demand for minimally invasive aesthetic procedures like botulinum toxin and soft tissue augmentation treatments. Along with this growth is the frequent addition of new dermal fillers to the market, spurred by constant innovation and improvements in formulation. While this increase in therapeutic options may be a positive for consumers, an unfortunate effect of this is the substantial influx of information (and misinformation) about dermal filler treatments that can potentially mislead patients to make the wrong decision. There are plenty of choices when it comes to dermal fillers, each with their own benefits and downsides. This article hopes to shed some light on 2 very popular dermal filler treatments, Restylane vs Radiesse, and see how they fare in comparison to each other.

What’s the difference between Radiesse and Restylane?

Due to the sheer number of fillers currently available, it helps when discussing them to break them down into groups. There are many ways to categorize dermal fillers, but here we will go by mode of action. The first type of dermal filler is implanted into soft tissue for the purposes of adding volume, therefore these are known as fillers with replacement volume as a primary mechanism of action. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane, which constitute the most commonly used dermal fillers, fall into this category. The second dermal filler group is implanted not to replace volume but to stimulate collagen growth at the treatment site. These are known as collagen biostimulators. They are typically made out of a synthetic material that is introduced to the skin to stimulate fibroblast cells for collagen synthesis. This is the category that fillers like Sculptra Line belong to. Here, it is important to note that Radiesse actually has both mechanisms of action—it not only has the immediate effect that comes with volume replacement, it also confers long-term effects through its role as a collagen stimulator. In this respect, Radiesse is unique among dermal fillers.

Radiesse, the versatile collagen biostimulator

Radiesse is made of microparticles of synthetic calcium hydroxylapatite. This compound is identical to a natural component of teeth and bones. The way in which it stimulates collagen growth is considered non-inflammatory, as no foreign body response is generated; rather, Radiesse merely acts as a scaffold around which collagen is able to form. With time, these microparticles break down into calcium and phosphate ions by phagocytes, leaving behind collagen.
The benefits that Radiesse provide do not stop at its collagen-forming capabilities. Radiesse is also formulated with physical characteristics that afford it excellent volume replacement capabilities. Radiesse is highly elastic and viscous; hence, it has good lifting and augmenting properties. In short, Radiesse can function both as volumizer and collagen stimulator, and it does both of these roles well. With natural-looking results that last beyond 2 years, Radiesse has many qualities that make it an ideal dermal filler.

Restylane, a hyaluronic acid filler treatment mainstay

Even if you are only marginally familiar with dermal filler treatments, it is still likely that you would have heard of Restylane. The first commercialized hyaluronic acid filler in the United States, the ever-popular Restylane brand is a stalwart in aesthetic practice.
As mentioned before, Restylane dermal fillers are composed of cross-linked hyaluronic acid. The material is a naturally occurring, hydrophilic sugar not specific to any tissue or species, making the product biocompatible and non-immunogenic. When it is implanted into the skin, the water-retaining properties of the product keep the skin firm and hydrated. Results of a Restylane treatment are relatively durable, lasting 6–12 months on average.

Which filler should you choose, Radiesse or Restylane?

The simple answer: It depends. Because these two products are so different, they will produce different clinical effects. Thus, each filler will provide better results than the other depending on the application.
The Restylane brand comprises numerous products that can be used for many different applications, making it easy for the practitioner to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets the specific aesthetic needs of the patient. In contrast, Radiesse only comes in one formulation.

The area of treatment is another factor to consider. Many practitioners have noted that Radiesse is particularly suited for hand contouring. Its opacity—typically a drawback for a dermal filler—is valued in this instance, because it is able to hide the veins and tendons normally visible in an aging hand. However, due to its high elasticity and volumizing properties, Radiesse is not the best product for treating delicate areas with thin skin like the under-eye area or forehead.

As alluded to above, the dual-role of Radiesse allows it to have both immediate and long-term clinical effects, making this treatment more attractive to patients for whom longevity of results is a priority. However, these effects are irreversible, meaning that the patient will have no other recourse but to wait for the effects to wear off if the results were not what they expected. The effects of Restylane, on the other hand, can be easily reversed with hyaluronidase treatment.

Summary

In conclusion, while both Restylane and Radiesse are remarkable fillers with proven track records of efficacy and safety, the practitioner must take into account factors like type of treatment, area of treatment, as well as the preferences of the patient when it comes to matters like longevity and reversibility of treatment, in order to select the more appropriate product for treatment.

the apple near the orange symbolizes the comparison of Treatment and Duration of Hyalgan and Synvisc

Hyalgan vs Synvisc – Comparing Treatment, Duration and More

General Public / By  John Adams

27 Sep

This article will compare and contrast two brands of a type of medication for osteoarthritis: Hyalgan, which is manufactured by Fidia Farmaceutici, and Synvisc, a product of Genzyme.

What are Hyalgan and Synvisc, and how do they work?

Hyalgan and Synvisc are hyaluronic acid-based orthopedic treatments that are meant for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee. These medications belong to a treatment class called viscosupplements, which act to boost or replace the synovial fluid of the knee with a gel-like fluid of a similar composition. They are administrated via intraarticular injections. Viscosupplements, like Hyalgan and Synvisc knee injections, are considered second-line therapies insomuch that they can be recommended for patients who have not to responded sufficiently to the traditional first-line therapies for osteoarthritis, such as physical therapy and pain-relieving medications. As a local therapy, viscosupplements lack many of the side effects associated with standard oral medications, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, yet they have the benefit of being longer-acting than other intraarticular injections, such as corticosteroids.

Viscosupplements are primarily made out of hyaluronic acid, a main component in synovial fluid. The hyaluronic acid in these products are chemically modified to increase their stability and to better mimic the rheological properties of healthy synovial fluid. When injected into the knee, the viscosupplement affords a lubricating and cushioning effect that in turn alleviates symptoms and prevents further joint damage. These hyaluronic acid treatments have been shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis symptoms.

What are the differences between Hyalgan and Synvisc?

• Composition: Synvisc has a unique and distinct composition unlike Hyalgan and any other hyaluronic acid viscosupplements. Synvisc is an admixture of two types of chemically modified hyaluronic acids called hylan A and hylan B, while Hyalgan consists of sodium hyaluronate. The difference in composition also impacts the product’s physical characteristics. In this regard, Synvisc is considered to be more similar to healthy synovial fluid.

• Treatment course: Synvisc therapy consists of one injection each week for three weeks. In contrast, Hyalgan entails a course of one injection each week for five weeks. It is also worth mentioning that a single-dose form of Synvisc is also available as Synvisc-One. Fewer injections means fewer visits to the doctor, which is something that patients may take into consideration when deciding between treatments.

• Adverse effect profile: There have been reports of acute synovial inflammation reactions to Synvisc. Furthermore, the frequency of these reactions has increased in frequency in patients that have received more than one course of treatment. Similar reactions have not been reported with Hyalgan.

• Duration of effects: While both Hyalgan and Synvisc are able to reduce pain and other osteoarthritic symptoms for a period of up to six months, results from one comparative study indicated that patients who underwent Synvisc treatments were able to go longer between treatments than patients who used Hyalgan.

Conclusion

Hyaluronic acid injections can be very effective in the management of osteoarthritic symptoms, providing pain relief and enabling the patient to recover their mobility. Hyalgan and Synvisc are two popular brands of hyaluronic acid injectables for the knee, and both are well-established in terms of their respective safety and efficacy. As the two products differ in various aspects, including composition, duration of effects, and adverse event profiles, the practitioner will consider the right treatment for the patient on a case-by-case basis for optimal outcomes.

A happy woman touches her face and explains about costs and benefits of the best dermal fillers

Best Dermal Fillers- Cost, Benefits and More!

General Public / By  meddepo2

26 Sep

Comparing Top Dermal Filler Brands

Dermal filler brands differ according to their composition. Each dermal filler has a particular area that it is used to treat. While some work well on the lower areas of the face, others work best on the upper areas of the face. Different dermal fillers also last for different periods of time. They can last between 3 months to 12 months or more.

Current Dermal Filler Technology

Great improvements have been made in dermal filler technology. Patients have requested dermal fillers that create more natural looking results that last for longer amounts of time. Technologies such as Vycross by Juvederm, NASHA by Restylane, S.M.A.R.T. by Princess, and Cohesive Polydensified Matrix from the Belotero collection are just a few of the revolutionary processes that help patients maintain their youthful glow.

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) 101

All about HA

HA helps to boost the skin’s moisture. HA serums moisturize and hydrate the skin. They also contain anti-aging ingredients that keep the skin young naturally without side effects. HA also provides lubrication to connective tissues and joints

Sources of HA

HA is a natural linear polymer. It is found in the fluid in the joints of all living things.

Size of HA

The size of HA molecules used in dermal fillers range from small to large, depending on the target concern and facial region.

Concentration of HA

The concentration of HA will vary depending on the target treatment. It may vary from 13mg/ml to 24mg/ml.

HA injections

After HA injections, the skin may experience be itchy, red, or swollen for a few days. Patients are advised not to touch the treated area. Skincare products can help to add moisture to the skin and improve the skin’s appearance.

Popular dermal filler brands

Radiesse

Radiesse temporarily adds volume to smooth severe wrinkles and folds on the face and around the mouth. The calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres in this filler are biocompatible. Once injected, these microspheres stimulate natural collagen production. New collagen will last even after the gel has been resorbed. Although not a hyaluronic acid-based filler, this is a great option for those who need more volume implanted under the skin. As well, due to the stimulation of natural collagen, the results last for longer as the skin begins to repair itself.

Juvederm

Juvederm contains no animal components and poses minimal risk of allergies or skin reactions. The fillers in this collection are recommend for facial rejuvenation. The effects of Juvederm vary depending on the product used. Results are immediate with a minimal side effects that disappear within a few days.

Restylane

Restylane contains no animal components and poses minimal risk of allergies or skin reactions. Results are usually immediate with minimal side effects. There are a number of fillers in this collection, which target different concerns from thin lips to volume loss.

Belotero

Belotero is another hyaluronic acid-based filler range. The treatments include Soft, Balance, Volume, Intense, and Hydro. These treatments work to hydrate the skin and fill in wrinkles and lines.

Sculptra

Sculptra contains poly-L-lactic acid, which is highly biocompatible and bioresorbable. Although this popular filler isn’t made using hyaluronic acid, it is often a first choice along with Radiesse for volume loss. It is recommended for treating facial wrinkles and nasolabial folds. The results of Sculptra last between 9 to 12 months.

While these may be some of the most well-known filler brands, there are several others that remain doctor favorites, including Princess, Filorga, and fillers from Teosyal. Speak to your doctor today to discover more about hyaluronic acid-based fillers and other types of cosmetic injectables that can help you achieve a youthful complexion.