Wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers
People often use the two names loosely, so here is the plain difference. Wrinkle relaxers are injected into muscle and act on muscle movement. Dermal fillers are gels placed under the skin in a chosen spot. They are different products with different techniques, and a provider may suggest one, both or neither.
Both are given by licensed providers where state law allows. Who may inject is set by state rules, which differ across the country. Ask any provider you speak with about their license, their training with each product and how they decide what is suitable.
Blood thinners, supplements and bruising
Medicines come up early in any injectables consultation. Blood thinners, aspirin and some supplements such as fish oil, vitamin E and ginkgo can make bruising more likely, so a provider will want to know about them. Some antibiotics and other medicines can matter too.
Bring a full list, including things you buy without a prescription. Do not stop a prescribed medicine to prepare for an injectable unless the person who prescribed it agrees. The licensed provider weighs your list with your health history and decides what is suitable, or whether to wait.
The days before
Some providers give instructions for the days before a consultation where treatment might happen at the same visit. Ask the office in advance. Common topics include alcohol, supplements that can raise bruising, and strong skin care on the area.
Never stop a prescribed medicine, including a blood thinner, without talking to the person who prescribed it. Arrive with a clean face if the office asks, bring your notes, and allow enough time that you do not feel hurried. You can always choose to wait and think after hearing the provider's view.
Questions about injectables
Who can give injectables in Pennsylvania?
Who may inject is set by state rules, and they differ. Depending on the rules, injectors may include physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners or registered nurses, sometimes under supervision. Injectables are always given by licensed providers where state law allows. Ask any provider what license they hold and who supervises them.
Can I have injectables while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Most providers do not give wrinkle relaxers or dermal fillers during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If either applies, or you are planning a pregnancy, tell the provider at the start of the consultation. They will decide what is suitable, which may mean waiting.
How do I know which product a provider is using?
Ask. A provider can tell you the product type, whether it is a wrinkle relaxer or a dermal filler, and why they suggest it. You can also ask for the product name and amount to be noted in your records, which helps if you see a different provider later.
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