Yes, there is indeed a significant difference between anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers.

Anti-wrinkle injections such as Botox® and Dysport® work by relaxing muscles rather than affecting the skin directly. It consists of a purified protein that acts on nerve endings, reducing the transmission of acetylcholine, a chemical that triggers muscle contraction. By limiting muscle activity, anti-wrinkle injections soften and may even eliminate wrinkles over time. Its effects typically last 3-6 months before muscle activity gradually returns.

On the other hand, dermal fillers are primarily used to add volume, replace lost fat pads, or mimic bone structure to provide facial support. The fillers used, such as hyaluronic acid (HA), are naturally occurring substances found in the body. HA not only hydrates the skin but can also stimulate collagen and elastin production. Dermal fillers usually last between 6-24 months, depending on factors like product cohesivity and individual metabolic rates in breaking down HA.

Despite being temporary, there can be rare side effects associated with dermal fillers that may have serious implications. It's crucial to choose a skilled injector, thoroughly discuss any concerns or questions, and fully understand all risks before undergoing any treatment.

Yes, having an initial consultation is essential, even if you've received the same treatment elsewhere before.

Not everyone is suitable for injectables, so it's crucial that we take the time to discuss your medical history, previous treatments, and any other relevant information outlined in our consent form. By doing so, we can tailor a personalized plan to address your specific needs and concerns. Since every face is unique, it's important to create a plan that aligns with your individual facial structure and goals.

At Nue Skin & Aesthetics, we don't believe in a "one-size-fits-all" approach. Instead, we carefully analyze and assess each procedure, even for repeat treatments. Additionally, we continuously update your medical health information at every visit to ensure the highest level of care and safety.

As with any medical treatment, there's always a degree of risk involved. However, with over 8 years of experience in appearance medicine, we prioritise safety and use only the highest quality products that have undergone extensive research and clinical testing to ensure their safety.

Before any treatment, we conduct a thorough medical assessment to determine your suitability. We believe in ensuring that you're well-informed about the treatment process, including expectations, potential downtime, and any possible adverse reactions. This information is covered in detail during your consultation and consenting process, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what to expect before proceeding with any treatment.

Since pain tolerance varies greatly among individuals, it's challenging to accurately gauge the level of discomfort for each person. Generally, any discomfort experienced during treatments is brief and minimal. However, factors like a person's pain threshold and even their menstrual cycle can influence sensitivity. As a point of reference, some clients have likened the sensation to that of plucking an eyebrow.

The needles used in most procedures are typically very small. If you know you have a fear of needles or are prone to fainting, please discuss this with us beforehand so we can allocate extra time and utilize techniques to help ease any anxiety. We highly recommend eating something before your appointment, and you're welcome to bring along a support person if you feel you need extra reassurance.

If you decide to stop injectable treatments, there are no permanent side effects. Both anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers are temporary, with effects gradually wearing off over time.

With anti-wrinkle injections, as muscle contraction returns to its original strength, treated lines or wrinkles may reappear. Similarly, dermal fillers gradually break down and are metabolized by the body, causing the skin to revert to its original state.

It's important to note that dermal fillers do not stretch the skin or cause excess laxity. Instead, they are metabolized into carbon dioxide and water by the body and eventually excreted. These treatments are intended to slow down the aging process. If not maintained with recommended follow-up procedures, the effects will diminish, and some individuals may appear older due to natural aging processes over time.

Unfortunately, no, you cannot undergo injectable treatments while pregnant or breastfeeding. We encourage you to enjoy your pregnancy and cherish the precious time with your baby, and rest assured, we'll be here when you're ready to resume treatments.

It's important to note that there are limited studies on the safety of injectables during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for ethical reasons, conducting such studies is not feasible. As a clinic committed to best practices, we are unable to offer any treatment until both pregnancy and breastfeeding are no longer part of your motherhood journey.

As long as you're 18 or older, the decision to explore cosmetic procedures is entirely yours to make. There's no specific age at which you should start considering these options, especially if a particular area of concern is bothering you. There is nothing wrong with wanting to look and feel your very best at every stage of life, and I've had clients ranging from 19-years-old seeking treatment for genetic under-eye hollows or recessed chins, to 75-years-old looking for a subtle rejuvenation.

Regardless of age, the approach to injectables should focus on conservation and restoration rather than solely anti-aging.