How to Make the Most of Dermal Fillers
More than 3.5 million dermal filler treatments are performed every year in the United States, making fillers the second most popular minimally invasive cosmetic treatment (right after Botox® injections). The reason for their popularity is simple: Fillers do a great job smoothing out lines and wrinkles and restoring lost volume in the cheeks, under the eyes, and in other areas of the face — without costly, invasive surgery.
At BodyLogicMD, Anita Petruzzelli, MD, helps patients from Glastonbury, Connecticut get the best possible results from their filler treatments by relying on advanced techniques and products customized to their needs and goals. If you’re planning on getting fillers, here are eight tips that can help you maintain your results for as long as possible.
#1: Start by choosing the right filler
There are lots of fillers on the market, mainly because different fillers work better for different problems and on different parts of your face. Dr. Petruzzelli has extensive experience with multiple filler types, which means she can recommend the best treatment based on your unique goals.
#2: Be cautious about the sun
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a leading cause of wrinkles, lines, and other signs of aging skin. UV rays cause collagen to break down faster, hastening the development of wrinkles and lines. Limit your sun exposure, wear sunscreen every day (yes, even if it’s cloudy or cold), and don’t use tanning beds.
#3: Quit smoking
The bad health effects of smoking are too numerous to list here. When it comes to your skin, smoking increases wrinkles around your mouth and decreases circulation to the rest of your face, causing the skin to sag and look haggard and worn. Smoking also causes uneven skin texture and tone.
#4: Moisturize regularly
Moisturizers help your skin maintain its natural protective barrier — the barrier that keeps your skin healthy and youthful-looking. Aim to apply a good moisturizer a couple of times a day — typically in the morning and before bed.
#5: Eat a “skin-healthy” diet
The old saying is true: You are what you eat. It’s especially true for your skin, where the effects of inflammation and vitamin deficiencies are most visible. Avoid processed foods, limit sugar intake, and fill your plate with fruits, leafy green vegetables, lean protein, and low-fat dairy. Taking a multivitamin is fine, but remember: Nutrients in food are often better absorbed, and a vitamin supplement is no substitute for healthy eating.
#6: Drink plenty of water
Moisturizers provide your skin with plenty of protective emollients from the outside, but to really help your skin stay healthy and supple, you need to moisturize from the inside, too. Water is the perfect drink for your skin and for the rest of your body. If you’re not a fan of plain water, add a spritz of lemon or lime and keep your water chilled to make it more palatable and refreshing.
#7: Avoid harsh skin products
Cleansers, face masks, moisturizers, and other facial care products make a lot of promises — but not all of those products can deliver. Some may even contain harsh chemicals or allergens that can cause breakouts or make your skin extra dry. Check the labels and follow these tips from the American Academy of Dermatology.
#8: Schedule touch-ups
One of the great things about dermal fillers is that they can be repeated over time to maintain your results. How long your filler lasts depends on the type of filler that’s being used, where it’s being injected, and other factors. During your visit, ask Dr. Petruzzelli to recommend a touch-up treatment schedule just for you, so you can always look your best.
Book an appointment at BodyLogicMD, and learn how dermal fillers can help you smooth out lines and wrinkles, rejuvenate your appearance, and feel more confident, too.