Applying gels for rejuvenation

Using Gels for Rejuvenation

One of the common concerns people have is eliminating wrinkles, frown lines, smile lines, or enhancing lips and cheeks. There are various methods available such as gel injections, Botox, and fat transfer. Choosing the right method can effectively address the individual’s concerns. One of the popular treatments is using dermal fillers (gels), which contain volumizing compounds.

How Gel Injections Work

These substances fill in lines and hollows, thereby reducing wrinkles and adding volume to areas like smile lines, under-eye hollows, lips, cheeks, chin, and even body parts like the breasts or buttocks. They are also used to fill in scarring depressions caused by conditions like leishmaniasis.

Types of Gels and Their Duration

Gels are categorized into temporary and permanent types. They are commonly used to enhance cheeks and lips or fill deep wrinkles and hollows. The duration of effect varies based on whether the gel is temporary or permanent, typically lasting from 6 months to 6 years.

Temporary and Permanent Gels

Temporary gels last between 6 to 18 months and include brands such as Juvederm, Revofil, and Restylane. These are typically composed of substances like collagen and hyaluronic acid.

Permanent gels last between 5 to 10 years, though they are technically considered permanent. Over time, they may gradually shrink and the tissue may break down, so a 5 to 10-year durability range is usually referenced.

Possible Side Effects of Gels

Temporary gels generally do not cause side effects because they are protein-based and are recognized by the body as natural. The body eventually absorbs and metabolizes them without issue.

However, permanent gels can occasionally cause side effects such as allergic reactions. This is particularly a concern in individuals with autoimmune conditions like allergies, asthma, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis. In such cases, complications like infection or gel displacement may occur. Therefore, these individuals should consult with a specialist before undergoing permanent gel injections. It's also important to avoid injecting large volumes of gel in one session.