Achieving natural-looking results with injectables: Tips and techniques from an expert

Injectable treatments, such as dermal fillers and botulinum toxin (Botox™), have become increasingly popular for achieving a youthful appearance without needing invasive surgery. When performed correctly, these treatments can provide subtle, natural-looking results that enhance one's features. Here, top aesthetic medicine specialist Dr Camila Valencia discuss expert tips and techniques to achieve the best outcomes with injectables.

What are the different types of injectables?

Injectables fall into two main categories:

Dermal fillers

• Used to add volume, smooth wrinkles and enhance facial contours.
• Common ingredients include hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite and poly-L-lactic acid.
• Popular areas for treatment: cheeks, lips, nasolabial folds and under the eyes.

Botulinum Toxin (Botox™)

• Used to relax muscles that cause wrinkles and fine lines.
• Effective for treating forehead lines, crow's feet and frown lines between the eyebrows.

How can you achieve natural-looking results?

Choose an experienced practitioner

• Ensure that your practitioner is a qualified medical professional with experience in facial anatomy and injectables.
• Look for certifications and reviews from previous patients.

Individualised treatment plans

• A personalised approach is crucial for natural results. Your practitioner should assess your facial structure, skin type, and aesthetic goals to create a tailored treatment plan.
• Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach.

Start conservatively

• Starting with a smaller amount can allow for gradual enhancement. It also reduces the risk of an overdone look.
• Additional treatments can always be added later if needed.

Focus on balance and proportion

• The aim is to enhance natural features, not to change them completely. Maintaining facial balance and proportion is key to achieving a harmonious appearance.
• Address multiple areas if necessary to ensure an overall balanced look.

Use the right product for the right area

• Different injectables are formulated for specific uses. For example, softer fillers are better for delicate areas like the under-eyes, while thicker fillers are suitable for the cheeks.
• Your practitioner should choose the appropriate product based on the treatment area and desired outcome.

Pay attention to detail

• Small, precise injections can make a significant difference. Your practitioner should use techniques such as micro-droplet injections for Botox and layering techniques for fillers.
• This approach ensures a smoother, more natural transition between treated and untreated areas.

What are the techniques for natural-looking injectables?

Micro-Botox™

• Involves injecting diluted Botox™ into the superficial layers of the skin.
• Ideal for reducing fine lines and achieving a subtle lift without affecting deeper muscle movement.

Cannula technique for fillers

• Using a blunt-tipped cannula instead of a needle can reduce bruising and swelling.
• Allows for smoother, more even distribution of the filler and reduces the risk of hitting blood vessels.

Layering and sculpting

• For areas requiring more volume, layering small amounts of filler over multiple sessions can create a more natural build-up.
• Sculpting techniques help to define and enhance contours without overfilling.

Natural movement preservation

• Avoid over-injecting muscles that are essential for natural facial expressions.
• Focus on relaxing rather than paralysing muscles to maintain a natural look.

Post-treatment care

• Follow practitioner’s advice: Adhere to all aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner to ensure optimal results and reduce the risk of complications.
• Manage expectations: Understand that results can take time to settle and may require touch-ups for maintenance.

By choosing an experienced practitioner and following these expert tips and techniques, you can achieve natural-looking results with injectables that enhance your features and boost your confidence.

Considering gold-standard injectable aesthetic treatment? Arrange a consultation with Dr Valencia via her Top Doctors profile.