The neck and chest are the hardest areas to smooth and refine because they are constantly barraged by the sun, air toxins, and gravity. Finding ways to firm and tone these areas while reducing fine lines and wrinkles has been ongoing and evolving. One of the best ways to combat age-related issues is with injectable fillers

When it comes to reducing wrinkles and giving skin its elasticity back, there are two types of injectables that can be used: Botox and fillers. Both have their benefits and their side effects, which will be discussed below. Both of these anti-aging procedures can be done in Sterling Heights.

Botox

These injections smooth fine lines and wrinkles by forcing the muscles under the skin to relax. This allows the skin overlying these muscles to rest and therefore smooth out, softening the appearance wrinkles. The results of this procedure can last for 3 to 4 months. Generally, this treatment is used for smaller areas of skin, such as around the mouth, eyes, and forehead, but it has been experimented with for larger areas such as the neck.

Fillers

Fillers smooth and firm skin in a different way than Botox. When collagen and elastin break down in the skin, they leave empty spaces, which allows wrinkles to develop. Fillers fill that empty space and push the skin outward, improving lines and sagging skin. There are different types of fillers such as, hyaluronic acid gels, collagen, and synthetic.

Each type works slightly differently to improve the signs of aging skin.  Hyaluronic acid gels are the most popular, and believed to be the least risk of side effects. Synthetics are lab-created and often derived of substances that aren’t naturally found in the skin. Collagen is often extracted from cows and injected into a patient.

Benefits and Side Effects

Both of these treatments have been used for a while to reduce the effects of aging, and the results can last anywhere from 3 to 12 months depending on the procedure. There are side effects with both, including pain or swelling at the injection sites or bruising. With Botox, there’s an increased risk of permanent muscle or nerve damage, and with fillers, there’s a chance the patient could have an allergic reaction.

These procedures also can’t fix all skin ailments, including getting rid of all saggy skin, fatty deposits in the neck, or crepey skin. If the patient has excessive loose skin, fat, or wrinkling, the results may not be as expected.

Knowing which treatment is best is determined by talking to a professional. The results can be well worth the time and effort.