Chin Crease

Cosmetic injectables are non-surgical treatments designed to enhance facial aesthetics, reduce signs of ageing, and improve skin texture. The two most popular types of injectables are:

• Botox®: A neuromodulator that relaxes muscles to reduce dynamic wrinkles caused by facial expressions.
• Dermal fillers: Gel-like substances used to restore lost volume, smooth static wrinkles, and enhance facial contours.

To learn more, please read 'Understanding Botox®' and 'An Introduction to Dermal Fillers'.

Cosmetic injectables work in two primary ways, depending on whether you’re using Botox® or dermal fillers:

• Botox®: Botox® is a neuromodulator that temporarily relaxes specific facial muscles by blocking the nerve signals that cause them to contract. This reduces the appearance of dynamic wrinkles, such as frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines, which are caused by repetitive facial movements.
• Dermal Fillers: Fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth static wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Many dermal fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the skin that retains moisture and adds plumpness. Some fillers, like calcium-based or collagen-stimulating fillers, also encourage the body to produce more collagen over time.

Both treatments target different types of wrinkles and concerns, making them highly complementary in achieving a refreshed, youthful appearance.

To learn more, please read 'Understanding Botox®' and 'The Science of Dermal Fillers'.

• Botox®: Works by relaxing facial muscles to reduce wrinkles caused by repeated expressions (e.g., frown lines, crow’s feet).
• Dermal fillers: Add volume and smooth wrinkles by filling in areas of lost volume or static lines (e.g., nasolabial folds, lips, and cheeks).

Botox® targets muscle activity, while fillers restore or enhance volume. To learn more, please read 'Botox® vs. Fillers'.

Botox® can effectively treat various facial areas to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Commonly treated areas include:

Forehead: Reduces horizontal lines and prevents new wrinkles from forming.
Frown Lines (Glabellar Lines): Softens vertical lines between the eyebrows, often called "11 lines."
Crow’s Feet: Minimises wrinkles around the outer corners of the eyes.
Bunny Lines: Smoothens wrinkles on the sides of the nose.
Lips: Treats vertical lip lines and can create a subtle "lip flip."
Chin: Reduces dimpling for a smoother appearance.

We offer dermal filler treatments for a wide range of areas, including:

• Tear Troughs: Reduce under-eye hollows and dark circles.
• Cheeks: Add lift, contour, and restore volume.
• Lips: Enhance shape, volume, and hydration.
• Jawline: Create definition and balance facial proportions.
• Chin: Improve projection and symmetry.
• Nasolabial Folds and Marionette Lines: Smooth wrinkles and folds around the mouth.
• Dermal Filler Facelift: A non-surgical approach to rejuvenating the entire face.

Yes, both Botox® and dermal fillers are safe when administered by a qualified, experienced medical professional. Most side effects, such as swelling, bruising, or redness, are mild and temporary. Rare complications, such as vascular occlusion with fillers, can occur, which is why choosing a skilled practitioner is essential.

To learn more, please read 'Is Botox® Safe?' and 'Dermal Fillers Safety Guide'.

Both Botox® and dermal filler treatments are designed to involve minimal discomfort. We use very fine needles to ensure precision and comfort during the procedure. Additionally, if needed, we can apply a topical numbing cream before your treatment to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Many of the fillers we use also contain a numbing agent to further enhance your comfort throughout the process.

• Botox®: Results typically last 3–4 months, depending on individual factors like metabolism and muscle activity.
• Dermal fillers: Longevity varies by product and treatment area, lasting anywhere from 6–18 months.

To learn more, please read 'The Botox® Timeline' and 'Dermal Fillers Over Time'.

• Botox®: Results begin to appear within 3–5 days, with full effects visible after 2 weeks.
• Dermal fillers: Results are immediate, though mild swelling may obscure the final look for 1–2 weeks.

Common side effects include:

• Botox®: Mild redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. Rarely, temporary muscle weakness or a drooping eyelid can occur.
• Fillers: Swelling, bruising, redness, or small lumps at the injection site. Rare complications include filler migration or vascular occlusion.

To learn more, please read 'Is Botox® Safe?' and 'Dermal Fillers Side Effects'.

Yes, Botox® and dermal fillers can be used together for a comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan. Botox® smooths dynamic wrinkles, while fillers restore lost volume and contour facial features. This combination is often referred to as a “liquid facelift.”

• Botox®: Botox® is not reversible, but its effects naturally wear off within 3–4 months.
• Dermal fillers: Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if adjustments or reversals are needed. Non-hyaluronic fillers are not reversible but will break down over time.

To minimise the risk of bruising and swelling:

• Avoid blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) and supplements (e.g., fish oil, vitamin E) for 1–2 weeks before treatment.
• Avoid alcohol 24–48 hours before your appointment.
• Stay hydrated and eat a light meal before your appointment.

To learn more, please read 'Botox® for Beginners' and 'Dermal Fillers for Beginners'.

Post-treatment aftercare includes:

• Avoiding strenuous exercise, alcohol, and excessive heat (e.g., saunas, hot yoga) for 24–48 hours.
• Not touching, massaging, or applying pressure to the treated area unless instructed by your practitioner.
• Avoiding lying down for 4–6 hours after Botox® to prevent migration.

To learn more, please read 'The Botox® Timeline' and 'Dermal Fillers Aftercare'.

• Botox®: Maintenance treatments are typically needed every 3–4 months.
• Dermal fillers: Touch-ups are usually required every 6–18 months, depending on the type of filler and treatment area.

To learn more, please read 'The Botox® Timeline' and 'Dermal Fillers Over Time'.

Yes, most patients return to their daily routines immediately after treatment. However, avoid strenuous activities, alcohol, and excessive heat for the first 24–48 hours to minimise side effects like swelling and bruising.

Injectables may not be suitable for:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.
• People with certain medical conditions, such as neuromuscular disorders (for Botox®).
• Those with severe allergies or sensitivities to filler ingredients.

Always disclose your full medical history during your consultation to determine if injectables are right for you. At VL Aesthetics in Carlisle, our experienced team will carefully assess your medical history and goals to ensure the safest and most effective treatment plan for you. Book your consultation today to get started.

There is no specific age at which you should start the treatments – All people age differently and feel differently about how they look. In general, we find that people start the treatments for the following reasons:

20s – To prevent wrinkles and fine lines from occurring.
30s – To prolong the youthful look as wrinkles and fine lines start to appear.
40s – To tackle wrinkles and fine lines before they are deeply imprinted.
50+ – To improve the appearance of deeper wrinkles and fine lines.

When administered by a qualified professional, both Anti-Wrinkle Injections and dermal fillers are considered safe for long-term use. However, there is ongoing scientific research into the cumulative effects of repeated treatments.

• Anti-Wrinkle Injections: Long-term use of Anti-Wrinkle Injections has been studied extensively, and research indicates that Anti-Wrinkle Injections are generally safe. Regular treatments can sometimes lead to muscle atrophy (weakening of the treated muscle) due to reduced activity over time. However, this is typically reversible if treatments are stopped.
• Dermal Fillers: Hyaluronic acid fillers are biodegradable and naturally metabolised by the body over time. Long-term studies have shown no significant risks when fillers are used appropriately. However, repeated treatments may occasionally result in mild tissue scarring or changes in skin texture, particularly if performed improperly or in overfilled areas.

If you're considering long-term use of Anti-Wrinkle Injections or fillers, it's essential to consult with a practitioner who understands facial anatomy and can create a personalised treatment plan to avoid overuse or unnatural results. At VL Aesthetics in Carlisle, our expert team prioritises your safety and ensures every treatment is tailored to your needs. Book your consultation today to discuss a customised plan for long-term care and natural results.

Yes. At your Consultation we can organise a payment plan that suits you.