To make the skin young-looking again is the objective of any anti wrinkle treatment. However, the result of some treatments can be less than optimal. In face lifts, excess facial skin is removed and the remaining skin is stretched and re-draped over the face and neck, more often than not making the face look unnatural. Botulinum toxin injections paralyse muscles underlying wrinkled skin, which could affect facial expressions and movement. Because of this, dermal fillers like Restylane are becoming more popular.
Restylane is an injectable gel manufactured by the rapidly growing biotechnology/medical device company Q-Med AB in Sweden. When injected into the skin, Restylane replenishes the skin’s natural stocks of hyaluronic acid and stimulates its production of collagen. This in turn improves the skin’s elasticity and texture and reduces the prominence of lines and creases, making skin appear more youthful without creating an unnatural look and without affecting facial expression and facial movement.
The active ingredient in Restylane is hyaluronic acid. This acid occurs naturally in the skin and hydrates it by binding water. Hyaluronic acid is especially abundant in youthful skin. But as years pass, there are changes in the distribution and function of the acid in the skin. This leads to the gradual appearance of the signs of aging such as loss of elasticity, sagging, and wrinkles.
The administration of Restylane should always be performed by a qualified medical professional. The procedure in which it is administered is done very quickly and the results can be seen instantly. This means that you can be in and out of the doctor’s clinic in virtually no time at all and you get instant gratification. Because of the minimal downtime, it fits easily into a busy lifestyle.
Though instantly visible and long lasting, the rejuvenating and shaping effects of Restylane are not permanent. This non-permanency can be an advantage as it gives you flexibility and control over your looks. As you age, your face gradually changes shape. A permanent look that you might regret in years to come, or one that you did not like in the first place, is something that you will want to avoid.
In the procedure in which hyaluronic acid is administered, a small needle is used to inject suitable amounts into each line and wrinkle. It is painful; sensations of mild burning and stinging during treatment sessions are reported. The use of either a topical anaesthetic cream or a local anaesthetic injection is usually required. Several adverse effects have also been reported in hyaluronic acid treatments, including pain, infection, allergic reactions, and scar formation.
The hyaluronic acid in Restylane is unique because it closely resembles the hyaluronic acid naturally found in the skin. In addition, it is not extracted from animals. Thus, the risks of inflammatory reactions, disease transmission, and allergies are almost non-existent. This is the reason why many people worldwide have confidence in Restylane. Clinical evidence gathered over a span of 10 years attest to its safety and effectiveness.
Keep in mind, however, that all dermal fillers are expensive. The expenditure involved in Restylane treatment must definitely be taken into consideration. A single treatment can cost thousands of dollars. To achieve the look that you desire, more than one treatment may be required. Also, the effects of each treatment are temporary, lasting about 3 to 6 months. Allowances need to be made for the additional cost of repeat treatments.
