The questions and answers from our articles, grouped by topic. Below each answer you can go to the full article.
Botulinum Toxin (Commonly Called “botox”)
The aim is usually not to remove expression but to soften lines by reducing the movement of certain muscles. The physician plans the dose and the injection points according to this goal. Excessive stiffness is an unwanted result and is temporary.
The effect wears off over time and muscle movement returns. Your face returns to how it was before the treatment and to the natural course of ageing; it is not expected to look worse because you stopped.
Because very fine needles are used, most people describe a brief pricking sensation. Sensitivity varies from person to person; if you are worried, talk to your physician.
No. Botulinum toxin temporarily reduces muscle movement; hyaluronic acid filler creates volume where it is placed. They are used for different problems and their risks are also different.
Horizontal lines on the forehead are mostly caused by facial expressions, and for this type of line botulinum toxin is usually discussed. The forehead is one of the areas considered higher-risk for vascular occlusion with filler. Your physician determines the right approach for you after an examination.
Both are temporary. In most people the effect of botulinum toxin lasts about 3–4 months. The duration of filler varies with the product, the area, the amount and the person; discuss with your physician what is realistic for you.
Masseter (Jaw Muscle) Botulinum Toxin
It does not remove the teeth-clenching habit; it temporarily reduces the strength of the clenching muscle. Studies have reported a reduction in pain and bite force, but the reliability of the reviews assessing these studies was found to be low. It does not replace a dental assessment or measures such as a night guard.
If the width of the lower face clearly comes from the muscle, the muscle may become thinner and the face contour may soften. However, there are next to no strong placebo-controlled studies for this purpose, and the result varies from person to person. If the width comes from bone, fat tissue or skin laxity, the expected change is not seen.
The reduction in muscle strength begins within weeks and has been reported in studies to last up to about six months. Slimming of the muscle appears more slowly; one review reports that it is most marked at around the third month and can last six to twelve months. The duration varies from person to person.
Treatment of Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)
Primary hyperhidrosis is a treatable condition that occurs without another underlying disease. However, sweating that is widespread, occurs at night or has started recently should be investigated by a physician, as it may be a sign of another disease.
No. A deodorant only reduces odour. Antiperspirant products usually contain aluminium salts and temporarily reduce sweat output.
It varies depending on the person and the area; sources usually report periods from a few months to close to a year. In most people, the effect in the armpits can last longer than on the palms.
Tretinoin, a prescription retinoid, is the cream ingredient with the most studies behind it for fine lines due to sun damage; its effect is modest and appears over months. For most non-prescription products the evidence is more limited. No cream removes deep lines or sagging.
Expression lines appear only when the face moves. Static lines are visible even when the face is at rest. This distinction matters, because treatments that relax the muscle are effective mainly on expression lines; on established lines the effect may be more limited.
A controlled study has shown that regular daily use of sunscreen slows the progression of signs of skin ageing. It does not erase existing deep lines; it helps to slow the formation of new ones.
Side Effects after Botulinum Toxin
No, it is not permanent. A drooping eyelid improves as the effect of the medicine wears off; however, it can last a few weeks. When you notice it, inform the physician who performed the treatment; your physician will assess the situation and, if appropriate, may recommend a supportive treatment.
A mild headache may occur in the first days and mostly passes on its own. Ask your physician which painkiller you can take. If the headache starts suddenly, is very severe or keeps getting worse, see a physician.
Slight asymmetry is common, and the full effect only settles within about two weeks. If there is still a clear difference after this time, go back to the physician who performed the treatment for a check-up. If necessary, your physician may suggest a small top-up treatment to restore balance.
A bruise usually goes away on its own within a few days to two weeks. It may be more noticeable in areas with thin skin, such as under the eyes and the lips. If it lasts longer than two weeks or gets bigger, consult your physician.
If your physician has recommended it, applying ice or a cold pack wrapped in a cloth for short periods may bring relief. Do not put ice directly on the skin and do not press. If pain and discolouration occur together, call your physician immediately before applying anything cold.
No, do not stop it on your own. These medicines are used to prevent serious health problems. Discuss the situation with both the physician who will perform the procedure and the physician who prescribed your medicine.
Allergic Reactions in Aesthetic Treatments
Mild, short-lived itching can be part of healing. If the itching comes with hives, spreading redness or increasing swelling, it may be an allergy and needs to be assessed by your physician. If it is accompanied by shortness of breath or swelling of the lips or tongue, call 112 immediately.
True allergy to local anaesthetics is very rare, and most episodes of feeling unwell in the past are related to fainting or anxiety. Even so, describe this history to your physician in detail. If necessary, your physician may refer you to an allergy specialist before the procedure.
The most important symptoms are shortness of breath, wheezing, swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, widespread hives, dizziness, fainting and a fast, weak pulse. It usually starts within minutes and can progress rapidly. If you have even one of these symptoms, call 112 without waiting.
What Should You Do If a Complication Occurs after an Aesthetic Treatment
If you have problems with vision, speech or breathing, or signs of a severe allergy, call 112 without waiting. In other situations, go to the nearest emergency department or see another physician. Be sure to say which procedure you had, when and with which product.
Keep dated photos of the area, the product box or sticker, the batch number, the consent form, the aftercare instructions and the payment documents. Recording how the symptoms develop with short notes is also useful.
The batch (lot) number is the code showing which production batch the product came from. If there is a side effect or a product-related safety warning, it allows the product used on you to be traced. This is why it is sensible to ask for it to be recorded in your procedure record.
Aftercare Following Medical Aesthetic Procedures
Small bruises are common after injections and usually go away on their own within a few days to two weeks. If a bruise keeps getting bigger, or is accompanied by severe pain or colour change, consult your physician immediately.
This depends on the type of procedure. Avoiding strenuous exercise for the first 24–48 hours is generally recommended; for some procedures the period may be longer. Follow the period your physician gives you.
After some procedures, your physician may recommend a short cold application to reduce swelling. Do not put ice directly on the skin and do not press on the area. Ask your physician first.
The effect is local and temporary; muscle movement returns over time. The interval between repeat treatments and the total dose should be planned by your physician.
No. In some medical treatments, for example treating large muscle groups, higher doses than in aesthetic treatments may be used. The dose is always set by the physician according to the indication and the person.
Expressions such as “herbal botox” do not describe a medicine; they are usually marketing language and do not have the same effect as botulinum toxin. A product being “natural” does not mean it is safe or effective; evidence for such claims is limited.
No. The treatment is applied only to certain muscles, and the aim is to relax these muscles. With a treatment at an appropriate dose, your facial expressions are largely preserved.
No, it is not permanent. The effect of botulinum toxin is temporary, and muscle movement usually returns within a few months.
A lower dose usually provides a milder effect and sometimes a shorter duration. Which dose is suitable for you is determined at the consultation based on your expectations and your muscle structure.
There is no agreed starting age. The decision is made after an examination, on the basis not of calendar age but of the lines on the person’s face, the strength of the muscles of facial expression and the person’s expectations. There is no strong evidence showing that treatment is necessary when there is no noticeable line.
It is thought that reducing muscle movement may delay lines becoming established, and there are limited data supporting this. However, there are no long-term, controlled studies showing that starting in young people without lines makes a difference years later.
Of two sisters who are identical twins, the one who had regular treatment to the forehead and between the eyebrows for 13 years had no established lines at rest in these areas, while the one who had it only twice did. This is an interesting observation; however, because it is based on a single pair of twins, it is not enough to generalise from.
A muscle treated with botulinum toxin can become somewhat thinner because it works less. Reviews of the subject describe this thinning as temporary and reversible. There is no 'wasting away' in the sense of the muscle disappearing.
There is no strong evidence showing this. The fullness of the face is determined chiefly by bone and fat; hollowing over the years is usually due to age-related changes and weight loss. That said, long-term data are limited.
Muscle movement returns within months, and the muscle is expected to regain its volume over time. In a small imaging study, muscle volume stayed low for longer than the visible effect; the position after decades of use, meanwhile, has not been well researched.
There is no evidence that botulinum toxin causes physical dependence or withdrawal. Because its effect is temporary, people who want to maintain the result repeat the treatment; this is not addiction.
No. You can stop whenever you wish. The effect fades over months, the muscle moves again and the lines return over time to how they were before the procedure.
No such effect has been shown. What is seen when the effect wears off is the return of the lines. Because age has also advanced in the intervening time, the comparison should be made with your age on that day.
No. The body breaks the gel down over time. How long the effect lasts depends on the product, the area and the person; discuss with your physician what is realistic for you.
Hyaluronic acid fillers can be largely dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This is also a medical procedure and must be done by a physician. Fillers that are not hyaluronic acid cannot be dissolved with this enzyme.
Most people describe a needle prick and a feeling of pressure. Numbing cream and the local anaesthetic in the product reduce discomfort. Sudden, severe pain, however, is not normal and should be reported immediately.
A definite duration cannot be given. The effect of hyaluronic acid fillers is generally measured in months; the AAD gives a range of 4 to 12 months, but because the lips are a mobile area the duration may be shorter. It varies with the product, the amount and the person.
Swelling is usually most noticeable in the first days and then gradually decreases; how long it lasts varies with the person and the amount injected. You usually need to wait a few weeks to assess the final appearance. If swelling increases as the days go by, see your physician.
A numbing cream or a numbing injection reduces the discomfort; even so, prickling and pressure are felt. Sudden, severe pain, however, is not usual and should be mentioned immediately.
It can only reduce the shadow cast by the hollow. It does not change darkness due to increased pigment or to blood vessels showing through thin skin. A decision on filler should not be made before the cause of the under-eye appearance has been established by examination.
No definite period can be given. A review collating the studies reported a duration of between 8 and 12 months; more recent data, however, suggest that the effect and the product can stay longer in this area. For this reason, repeat treatment is planned on the basis of an examination, not the calendar.
It can. Too much filler, superficial placement or a person's tendency to puffiness can make the under-eye area look fuller and baggy. This risk is higher in people who already have fat bags or morning puffiness; for them filler is often not the appropriate option.
No; filler adds volume, it does not carry sagging tissue upwards. Filler placed in the cheekbone area can give a more rested look by supporting the midface; however, it does not correct marked sagging, and too much can make the face look heavy.
No definite period can be given. The effect of hyaluronic acid fillers is measured in months; it varies with the product, the amount, the area and the person. Repeat treatment should be planned according to the findings on examination, not the calendar.
Where the chin is slightly receding, it can support its appearance. It does not change the bone structure or the bite; where the chin is markedly receding or the bite is abnormal, an orthodontic and jaw surgery assessment is needed.
No. The enzyme hyaluronidase used to dissolve filler breaks down only hyaluronic acid; it has no effect on poly-L-lactic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite or polycaprolactone. These products are broken down by the body over time, but this process cannot be speeded up.
The effect appears not immediately but gradually, over weeks and months, because the result depends on the new collagen produced by the tissue. Part of the fullness seen on the day of the procedure is due to the carrier liquid and may lessen within days.
The FDA states a duration of effect of up to two years for poly-L-lactic acid and about 18 months for calcium hydroxylapatite. These are average figures; the duration varies with the person, the product, the amount and the area, and cannot be stated precisely in advance.
Small palpable irregularities are common in the first days and usually decrease as the swelling goes down. If they do not disappear after several weeks, or if they grow, are painful or red, go back to the physician who performed the treatment. Do not massage the firm area unless your physician recommends it.
When hyaluronic acid filler is placed too superficially in the skin, a bluish appearance can develop because of light scattering; this is called the Tyndall effect. It is not an emergency, but it can last a long time. Your physician may suggest dissolving the filler with the enzyme hyaluronidase.
The physician injects an enzyme called hyaluronidase into the filler area; the enzyme breaks down the hyaluronic acid. Sometimes more than one session is needed, and there may be temporary swelling afterwards. This method only works for hyaluronic acid fillers.
Swelling is usually most noticeable in the first days and then gradually goes down; how long it lasts depends on the person, the product and the amount injected. You generally need to wait a few weeks to judge the final result. If the swelling increases as the days go by, or there is warmth or discharge, see your physician.
Some of the small firm areas felt in the first days may decrease as the swelling goes down. Lumps that do not disappear after several weeks, or that grow or are painful, should be assessed. With hyaluronic acid fillers, the physician can dissolve the product with hyaluronidase if needed; do not massage it yourself.
Yes, filler can spread beyond the lip border into the skin of the upper lip and create a slight bulge above the lip. Large amounts and frequently repeated treatments may increase the risk. With hyaluronic acid fillers, the physician may suggest dissolving the displaced product.
Under-Eye Filler Complications
A bluish tint caused by bruising usually turns yellow and fades within days. A bluish colour that stays the same for weeks may be the Tyndall effect and can take a long time to go away on its own. With hyaluronic acid fillers, your physician may suggest dissolving the product with the enzyme hyaluronidase.
Swelling from the procedure usually increases in the first days and then goes down. In some people, however, swelling over the upper cheek may develop that lasts for weeks or months and is worse in the morning. In this case, see the physician who performed the treatment; treatment may require patience.
Although very rare, loss of vision has been reported when filler enters a blood vessel. For this reason, if you have any change in vision, double vision or eye pain during or after the procedure, call 112 without delay. It is important to have the procedure done where the conditions exist to respond to this risk.
Risks of a Non-Surgical Nose Job (Nose Filler)
Nose filler most often results in mild and temporary side effects, but the nose is one of the riskiest areas for vascular occlusion and loss of vision. These serious complications are rare but real. This is why the procedure is not risk-free and should only be performed by an experienced physician, in a healthcare facility where intervention is possible.
No. Filler adds volume; it does not remove it. When the areas above and below a bump are filled, the nose may look straighter in profile, but the nose actually becomes slightly larger. Making the nose smaller or narrower requires a surgical assessment.
Small irregularities left by a previous operation can sometimes be camouflaged with filler. However, because of scar tissue and altered blood vessels, unwanted effects and the risk of skin loss have been reported to be higher in this group. Be sure to mention your surgical history; the decision is made after an examination.
Complications of Permanent and Semi-Permanent Fillers
Problems such as granulomas, infection or migration related to fillers that do not dissolve can appear months or even years later. As long as the product remains in the body, the risk does not disappear completely. If you notice a new swelling, also tell your physician about your old fillers.
No. The enzyme hyaluronidase used to dissolve filler only dissolves hyaluronic acid; it has no effect on silicone. For problems related to silicone, medication and sometimes surgery are considered, but complete removal of silicone is not always possible.
In the USA, the FDA clearly states that injectable liquid silicone is not approved for any aesthetic use, including facial or body contouring. Silicone can move out of place and cause vascular occlusion and disfigurement that is difficult to reverse. For the regulations in Turkey, consult the physician who will perform the treatment and official sources.
Yes, small bruises at the injection points are common and usually start to fade within a few days. If it comes with a purplish colour spreading like a net, whitening or coldness, it is not normal; contact your physician immediately.
Most often they start during or immediately after the procedure; however, they may sometimes be noticed a few hours later. Because the local anaesthetic can temporarily mask pain, also check the colour of the area in the first hours.
If you have symptoms such as vision problems, difficulty speaking, facial drooping or loss of strength, call 112 without waiting or go to the nearest emergency department. If you have skin symptoms and cannot reach your physician quickly, also go to an emergency department and say that you have had filler.
Dissolving Filler (Hyaluronidase)
The enzyme’s effect begins quickly, and the change is often noticed within hours to a few days. However, swelling from the injection alters the appearance in the first days. The final state of the area is assessed at the follow-up examination, once the swelling has gone down.
For some people a single treatment is enough. Depending on the amount and type of filler and how long it has been in the tissue, more than one session may be needed. To avoid dissolving too much, many physicians start cautiously and repeat at follow-up if necessary.
The physician can aim for partial dissolving by applying the enzyme only to a particular point and in a limited amount. However, because the enzyme spreads to some extent in the tissue, it is not always possible to control the result exactly; less or more may dissolve than expected.
Yes, filler shifting from where it was placed into a neighbouring area is a recognised phenomenon. How often it occurs is not known. Filler travelling freely around the face, or migrating in everyone, on the other hand, is not something to be expected.
A bulge above the upper lip may be due to migration, but it may equally be due to too large an amount, to the product having been placed outside the lip border from the start, or to swelling. An examination is needed to tell them apart; this page cannot offer an individual assessment.
Appearances due to swelling may lessen over time. How long misplaced product will take to break down by itself, however, cannot be predicted; imaging studies suggest that in some people hyaluronic acid filler can remain in the tissue for longer than expected. For this reason assessment by a physician is recommended.
With treatments done in measured amounts, there is no strong evidence that this is a significant problem. The long-term effects on the tissues of treatments done in very large amounts and at short intervals, however, have not been researched enough. That is why it is important for the amount and the intervals to be planned by the physician.
No. Hyaluronic acid is slowly broken down by the body. The change is usually noticed gradually, over months.
Filler can temporarily hide volume loss; however, it does not stop the age-related changes in bone, fat tissue and skin. It should not be thought of as a treatment that slows down ageing.
There is no strong evidence for this. Because the appearance after dissolving is often judged against the filled appearance, it can be perceived as emptier; in addition, you have also aged while the filler was there. Short-term changes may occur; you should wait for the time your physician recommends before assessing the final appearance.
No. The enzyme mainly targets hyaluronic acid. It does not dissolve structures such as muscle, fat, bone or collagen fibres.
The body constantly breaks down and produces hyaluronic acid anew; so the enzyme’s effect on natural hyaluronic acid is expected to be temporary. Studies that precisely measure how long this takes in healthy facial skin, however, are limited.
Laser hair removal can reduce hair noticeably and over the long term; however, it cannot be said that all hair will disappear for life. Over time some hair may grow back, usually finer and lighter in colour, and maintenance sessions may be needed.
Most people describe the procedure as feeling like a rubber band snapping or a hot prick. The discomfort felt varies with the area, the person and the device. Cooling systems and, where needed, numbing creams recommended by the physician can reduce discomfort.
What really matters is not the season but whether the skin has been exposed to the sun. On tanned skin, the risk of burns and pigment spots increases. If you are planning treatment in the summer months, you need to protect the area carefully from the sun and tell your physician when you last sunbathed.
No. Fractional laser can reduce the appearance of acne scars, but it does not remove them completely. More than one session is often needed, and for deep scars it is combined with other methods.
Ablative laser vaporises small columns of skin; its effect is more noticeable, and its recovery time and risk are higher. Non-ablative laser heats the skin without opening it; recovery is shorter, the effect is more limited, and several sessions are usually needed.
A numbing cream is usually applied beforehand; even so, heat and prickling may be felt. The discomfort varies with the type of laser, the settings and the area.
Well-defined sun spots and freckles often lighten markedly or disappear. However, not every mark responds in the same way; some only lighten, and some come back. If sun protection is not kept up, new spots form.
Laser is not the first choice in melasma. The pigmentation usually comes back; worsening or speckled lightening of the skin has been reported after some treatments. Sun protection and cream treatments are the foundation; laser is considered only in selected people, on a physician's decision.
In some small studies, picosecond laser caused less darkening after the procedure on sun spots; however, its superiority has not been shown for every mark and skin type. The right diagnosis and experienced treatment matter more than the name of the device.
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) for Dark Spots and Redness
No. A laser emits light at a single wavelength; IPL is broadband light containing many wavelengths, adjusted with filters. The working principle is similar: the light is converted into heat at the target. Which is suitable depends on the type of problem and the skin type.
It is to be expected that targeted sun spots darken in the days after the procedure and fall away as fine crusts. By contrast, blistering, a grey-white colour, marks in the shape of the handpiece or new dark areas appearing weeks later are not expected; let your physician know.
IPL is not regarded as a first choice in melasma. Heat and inflammation can make melasma worse, and the pigmentation may return. In some selected people it may be considered in addition to cream treatments and strict sun protection; this decision is made by the physician who examines the pigmentation.
Some tattoos can be removed completely or almost completely; however, this is not possible for every tattoo. Especially with some colours and with tattoos containing dense ink, only marked fading may be achieved or a faint shadow may remain.
This varies greatly depending on the colour, size, amount of ink and location of the tattoo and on your skin type. Most tattoos require many sessions, and the process can take months, sometimes years. Your physician can give a rough estimate after the consultation.
Many people describe the pulses as being like a rubber band snapping or a splash of hot oil. Anaesthetic cream and cooling can reduce discomfort. The pain felt varies depending on the area and the person.
Laser, IPL and Chemical Peels on Olive and Darker Skin
Yes, with suitable technology and settings laser hair removal can also be carried out on olive and darker skin. However, the risk of burns and pigmentation is higher than on fair skin; for this reason a wavelength suited to your skin type, cautious energy, effective cooling and a practitioner experienced with these skin types are important.
In the scientific literature, the long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser and the diode laser used with long pulse durations feature most prominently for hair removal on darker skin, because these wavelengths are absorbed relatively little by melanin. Which technology is suitable for you is decided by the physician who examines your skin and hair type.
Because IPL uses a broad band of light, the risk of burns and pigmentation is higher on darker and tanned skin, and it calls for particular care. It may not be suitable for some skin types. The decision should be made by the physician who assesses your skin type.
Problems after Laser Hair Removal
This condition, called paradoxical hair growth, is a known but uncommon result and has been reported mostly on the face and neck. Its cause is not fully known. Tell your physician; in most studies the increase in hair gradually lessened when treatment was continued, but your physician decides on the plan.
The bumps around the hair follicles that are seen immediately after the procedure and settle within a day or two are an expected response. Bumps that appear days later, increase in number, or are inflamed or painful may be folliculitis. Do not squeeze them, do not apply medicated cream on your own, and show them to your physician.
With treatments carried out without eye protection, especially around the eyebrows and eyes, injuries such as inflammation inside the eye and damage to the iris have been reported. Protective goggles suited to the device must stay on throughout the procedure. If you have eye pain, blurred vision or extreme sensitivity to light, call 112 without waiting.
Burns and Pigmentation Changes after Laser and IPL
Redness and mild swelling usually decrease within a few hours to a few days. Redness that increases as the days pass, blisters, crusting or pus-like discharge are not normal and need to be assessed by a physician.
Most superficial burns heal without a scar; however, deep burns, infection and picking off crusts increase the risk of scarring. Early assessment by a physician, appropriate wound care and sun protection can help reduce this risk.
Post-inflammatory darkening of the skin usually fades gradually within months, but it can sometimes take longer than a year. Sunlight prolongs the process; strict sun protection and medical follow-up are important.
Problems after Fractional Laser
It depends on the type and intensity of the laser: usually a few days with non-ablative treatments, and it can last for weeks with ablative treatments. Redness that lasts longer than expected, increases again or comes with hardening of the skin needs to be assessed by a physician.
Post-inflammatory darkening of the skin usually fades within weeks to months; the time varies from person to person. Strict sun protection is very important. If necessary, your physician may recommend skin-lightening treatments; do not try strong products on your own.
Lightening of the skin is uncommon; it can occur particularly after ablative and intensive treatments, sometimes months later, and may not reverse. Show it to your physician; the cause and the follow-up plan are determined by an examination.
Spots and Milia (White Cysts) after Laser and Peels
Small, firm white dots that do not hurt are usually keratin cysts called milia, and they can form in healing skin. Some disappear on their own over time. Show them to your physician at your check-up; do not try to squeeze them or open them with a needle at home.
A mild acne flare-up can be seen in the first weeks; heavy skincare products and a tendency to acne in particular increase this risk. If the spots are painful, increasing rapidly, have yellow crusts or come with a fever, they may be an infection, so contact your physician the same day.
Some may disappear on their own within weeks or months. Milia that do not go away or that bother you can be emptied by a physician under sterile conditions.
Yes, blistering within hours or days of the procedure is common, and the blisters usually go down within a few days and leave a crust behind. Do not burst the blisters. Blisters that grow, become tense or become inflamed should be shown to a physician.
Whitening immediately after a pulse goes away within minutes. Skin lightening noticed weeks later, however, is due to the skin’s natural pigment being affected; it often fades within months, but may not always resolve completely. If needed, your physician may suggest pausing the sessions.
Paradoxical darkening after laser treatment can occur with skin-tone, white, pink or some red inks and with permanent make-up. Talk to your physician before the next session. Darkened ink can sometimes fade in later sessions, but the process is long and uncertain.
The AAD and FDA state that about 1 ounce (roughly 30 millilitres) of product is needed for an adult's exposed skin; the NHS describes this as 6 to 8 teaspoons. The AAD recommends at least 1 teaspoon for the face. Because most people apply far less than this, they do not reach the protection on the label.
Dermatology organisations recommend reapplying about every two hours outdoors, and also after swimming, sweating and drying yourself. This applies to water-resistant products too.
The difference is smaller than people think. According to the AAD, a product with a sun protection factor of 30 blocks about 97 per cent of UVB rays; higher numbers block slightly more, but none stops all of them. A high number does not mean that you can stay in the sun longer.
Medicines That Cause Sensitivity to Light
Some antibiotics, especially those in the tetracycline and fluoroquinolone groups, can cause sensitivity to light. With a short course of treatment, your physician may postpone the procedure until the treatment is finished; with long-term use, other precautions are considered. Do not stop the antibiotic on your own for the procedure.
Diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide, which are found in some blood pressure medicines, can cause sensitivity to light. You can ask your physician or pharmacist which active substance you are taking. Stopping a blood pressure medicine for a procedure can put your health at risk.
Yes. St John’s wort can cause sensitivity to light and can change the effect of many medicines. Add herbal products to your list of medicines too.
No. The light from hair removal lasers reaches only a few millimetres into the skin and does not affect the internal organs.
There is no scientific evidence for this. The light acts only on the hair roots close to the surface of the skin. Even so, if you notice a lump in the breast or a change in the skin, you should show it to your physician separately.
Home devices usually work at lower energy; even so, they carry a risk of burns, pigment changes and eye damage. They should not be used over moles, eye protection should not be neglected and the instructions for use should be followed.
There is no evidence that laser carried out with a suitable device, at the correct settings and at appropriate intervals causes long-term thinning of healthy skin. The sensitivity during the healing period is temporary. The real risks are burns, discolouration and scarring.
A hair removal laser targets the pigment in the hair follicle and does not remove layers of skin. Thinning of the skin is not listed among its known side effects. The redness and sensitivity seen after the procedure generally settle within a few days.
Most probably not. During the healing period the protective surface of the skin has not yet recovered; this is why the skin reddens more easily and reacts to products. If this lasts longer than expected or increases, see your physician.
A peel causes the upper layers of the skin to renew. Peels done under a physician’s supervision at suitable intervals are not expected to permanently damage the skin’s deeper structure; however, treatments done too often or at an unsuitable concentration can cause skin sensitivity and irritation.
No. With some superficial peels there may be no visible peeling, or it may be very mild. The amount of peeling on its own does not show how effective the procedure was.
If you can protect yourself effectively from the sun, some superficial peels can also be done in the summer months. However, if you will be heavily exposed to the sun, periods when the sun is less strong are preferred, especially for medium and deep peels. Make the decision together with your physician.
Melasma can fade noticeably with treatment; however, it is a long-lasting condition with a tendency to come back. Melasma that appears with pregnancy may decrease on its own after giving birth. For most people, the aim is to keep the spots under control with regular sun protection and maintenance treatment.
No. The sunlight that worsens spots is present all year round, including on cloudy days. Especially with melasma, using sunscreen every day is the foundation of treatment.
The effect of such applications has not been proven, and they can irritate the skin and paradoxically increase spot formation. Applying plant extracts such as lemon to the skin before going out in the sun can cause burns and spots on the skin.
Red or brown marks left after acne can often fade on their own over months. However, true scars that create depressions or raised areas in the skin usually do not disappear on their own.
With treatment, the appearance of scars can often be reduced considerably, but there can be no guarantee that they will disappear completely. The result depends on the type and depth of the scar, the skin type and the methods used.
It is usually recommended to get active acne under control first. New pimples can leave new scars, and some procedures may not be suitable for actively inflamed skin. Your physician will decide on the timing.
Problems after a Chemical Peel
It depends on the depth of the peel: usually a few days with superficial peels and longer with deeper peels. Redness that lasts longer than expected, increases again or comes with hardening of the skin needs to be assessed by a physician.
Post-inflammatory darkening of the skin usually fades within weeks to months; the time varies from person to person. Strict sun protection is very important. If necessary, your physician may recommend skin-lightening treatments; do not try strong products on your own.
It is not expected, but it can occur, especially in people with a history of cold sores. If you notice clusters of small fluid-filled blisters or painful sores, contact your physician the same day; it can spread across peeling skin.
Infection after Aesthetic Treatments
Mild redness in the first days that gradually decreases is usually normal. If the redness increases instead of decreasing, the area becomes warm, the pain gets worse or discharge starts, it may be an infection. In that case, the physician who performed the treatment needs to see the area.
Do not wait if you have a fever after a procedure, especially together with spreading redness, pain or chills. Go to the nearest emergency department or call 112, and say that you have recently had an aesthetic treatment.
In people with a history of cold sores, procedures around the lips can trigger a cold sore. This is uncommon and usually clears up on its own, but because it can be confused with a bacterial infection or a circulation problem, it is important for your physician to see it. Be sure to mention your history of cold sores before your next procedure.
Thread Lift (Non-Surgical Facial Lifting Threads)
No. Most of the threads used dissolve in the body over time, and the effect also fades over time. How long the effect lasts varies by person and thread type; long-term data are limited.
No. A thread lift aims to provide a modest and temporary effect in mild to moderate sagging. With pronounced sagging, surgical methods usually give a more marked and longer-lasting result.
The procedure is done under local anaesthesia; most people describe a sensation of pressure and pulling. In the first days there may be tightness and mild pain that increase with facial movements. Steadily increasing pain, however, is not normal.
There is no answer that applies to everyone. The two methods work in different ways, and with both the change is mostly moderate. Which one suits you better is assessed at the examination according to the degree of sagging, your skin structure and your expectations.
After HIFU, most people return to their daily life the same day. With a thread lift, swelling, bruising and tightness usually decrease within a few days to two weeks. The time varies from person to person.
Both are non-surgical methods; however, they do not replace a surgical facelift. They do not remove excess skin, and with significant sagging their results often fall short.
No. Non-surgical methods can provide a modest tightening in mild laxity; however, they do not remove excess skin or reposition slackened deep tissues. In marked sagging they should not be expected to give the change that surgery provides.
Creams do not reach the deep layers where sagging originates. The effect seen is mostly due to moisturising, is slight and disappears when use is stopped.
Filler replaces lost volume; it does not lift tissue. It can provide support in faces where volume loss predominates; however, trying to hide sagging with filler can make the face look heavy and puffy.
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)
HIFU aims to produce mild tightening by heating the lower layers of the skin, but it is no substitute for a surgical facelift. It does not remove excess skin, and in most people the result is moderate.
Many people feel heat, prickling or a deep ache during the procedure; this may be more pronounced in areas close to bone. The discomfort varies by person, area and energy level; discuss with your physician the measures that can be taken to reduce pain.
Because collagen production takes time, the change usually appears over months. The fullness immediately after the procedure is often temporary swelling.
Radiofrequency Skin Tightening and Radiofrequency Microneedling
With surface types there is mostly a feeling of heat; with some deep-heating devices this feeling can become marked. With microneedling types, an anaesthetic cream is usually used; even so, pricking and stinging may be felt. Discomfort varies depending on the person and the device.
Both aim to stimulate collagen production by heating tissue. Radiofrequency uses electrical energy, while HIFU uses focused sound waves. Which one is more suitable for you is assessed by a physician according to the area, the type of problem and your expectations.
No. Radiofrequency microneedling can reduce the appearance of acne scars, especially depressed ones; however, it does not completely eliminate the scars. More than one session is usually needed, and it is sometimes combined with other methods.
Mild dimpling seen in the first days usually decreases within days to weeks as the swelling goes down. If dimpling does not improve or becomes more noticeable after several weeks, see a physician; do not massage it yourself.
Being able to feel the thread is a known problem, especially in thin skin. If it becomes visible, pricks or the thread end pokes out, it needs to be assessed by a physician. Do not pull or cut the thread yourself.
Tightness and mild pain that increase with facial movements are usually noticeable in the first days and gradually decrease. Pain that increases as the days pass or is throbbing, or pain with redness, discharge and fever, is not normal.
Double Chin (Submental Fullness)
In people who are overweight, losing weight can reduce the fullness under the chin. However, if the double chin is due to inherited build, jaw structure or skin laxity, losing weight may not be enough; lax skin may remain after major weight loss.
There is no reliable evidence that jaw and neck exercises reduce the fat under the chin or tighten lax skin. The body does not burn fat selectively from over the muscle being exercised.
The injection whose active ingredient is deoxycholic acid is approved in some countries only for fat under the chin. Marked swelling, bruising, pain and numbness are very common; an effect on the nerve to the lower lip, difficulty swallowing, nodules and tissue damage are known risks. It is not free of risk, and suitability is determined by examination.
Problems after HIFU and Radiofrequency
Mild numbness or tingling may occur in the area after HIFU, and in most reported cases it subsides within weeks or months. If the numbness is spreading, getting worse together with pain, or there is a change in facial movement, see a physician.
Rarely, the facial motor nerves have been reported to be affected by heat, and improvement was seen in most reported cases. Even so, any newly appearing loss of movement should be reported to a physician the same day and followed up.
Fat loss and hollowing due to heat delivered to deep layers have rarely been reported; this may be more noticeable especially in people with a slim face. Information on how often it occurs is limited. This is why the treatment areas and depth should be planned carefully after an examination.
You may feel stinging and aching during the injections. Cold application or a local anaesthetic cream can be used to reduce pain. The discomfort felt varies from person to person.
Because your own blood is used, the risk of allergy is low, but infection, bruising, pain and, rarely, more serious complications can occur. That is why sterile conditions and a physician's assessment matter.
There is no single standard protocol. Usually an initial course of several sessions is planned, followed by periodic repeats. The number of sessions is set by the physician who examines you.
It depends on the purpose and the content. Improvement in skin quality has been reported in some studies, but these studies are mostly small and the evidence is limited for many uses. Reliable evidence for claims of local slimming and fat dissolving is insufficient.
No. Mesotherapy is not a weight-loss method. Evidence on injections targeting fat tissue is insufficient, and serious side effects have been reported.
No. PRP is a treatment prepared from the person's own blood and is covered in a separate guide. Hair mesotherapy uses different contents.
No, they are not the same thing. Skin booster products containing hyaluronic acid are more fluid and are applied as a thin layer across the skin; they do not add volume or shape.
It depends on the product and your skin. Most protocols plan an initial course of a few sessions followed by periodic repeats. Your physician will decide the plan that suits you.
There is no strong evidence for this. Studies on polynucleotides are few and mostly small; for exosome products the evidence for aesthetic use is very limited, and products may differ greatly in contents.
Polynucleotide products are produced by purifying DNA obtained from the reproductive cells of fish such as salmon or trout. The word 'vaccine' sometimes used for them, however, is misleading; these products are not vaccines that provide immunity.
In the USA, the FDA clearly states that there is no exosome product it has approved. In other countries the position varies with the category of the product and the route of use. For this reason, rather than a general answer, you need to ask your physician for the licence or registration document of the product that will be used on you.
Improvement in the appearance of the skin has been reported in some small, short-term studies. However, the studies are few, their quality has been rated in reviews as low to moderate, and the products differ from one another. The present position can be summarised as 'at the research stage, evidence limited'.
No. Microneedling can reduce the appearance of depressed acne scars, but it does not erase them. More than one session is often needed, and for deep scars it is planned together with other methods.
It is not recommended. Products used at home are less effective than treatment in a clinic; they can lead to infection and scarring when they puncture the skin and to irritation when overused, and they can spread infections such as warts and cold sores to other areas of the skin. A roller cannot be sterilised at home.
A numbing cream is usually applied beforehand; even so, prickling and vibration are felt. The discomfort varies with the area and the needle depth; the procedure is not free of pain.
Losing about 50–100 hairs a day is generally considered normal. On hair-washing days it may look as if more hair has been lost. If shedding has increased markedly or your hair is thinning, consult a physician.
Yes. Events such as severe stress, an illness with high fever or surgery can lead to temporary excessive shedding (telogen effluvium), which usually starts a few months later. This type of shedding often settles on its own once the trigger is gone.
Hair loss after childbirth is common and usually temporary. In most women the hair returns to its previous thickness over time. If the shedding lasts a long time or there are other symptoms, see a physician to check for causes such as iron deficiency and thyroid problems.
Bruises at the needle points usually turn yellow and fade within a few days to one or two weeks. They may be more noticeable in people taking blood thinners or certain supplements. If a bruise is growing or very painful, let your physician know.
Mild swelling and tightness are usual in the first days; they may be more noticeable especially around the eyes. The swelling should decrease as the days go by. Increasing swelling, redness and warmth may be signs of infection; see a physician.
With a treatment carried out using single-use sterile equipment and only your own blood, this risk is not expected. In the USA, HIV cases have been reported in connection with PRP treatments at an unlicensed centre where equipment was reused and hygiene rules were not followed. This is why where and how the treatment is carried out is decisive.
Small areas of redness and pinpoint swellings usually lessen within hours to a few days; bruises may last a little longer. Redness, warmth, pain or discharge that increases as the days go by is outside the expected course and should be shown to a physician.
This picture may be due to different causes such as an atypical mycobacterial infection, a granuloma or inflammation of the fat tissue (panniculitis); they can look alike from the outside, but their treatments are different. See a physician without using any medicine on your own, and describe where and when the procedure was done and with which product.
Small firm areas at the injection point mostly disappear within a few days. Nodules that have not disappeared after weeks, or that are growing, reddening or painful, on the other hand, may be a granuloma or an infection and require a physician’s assessment.
They are generally reported to be well tolerated in healthy adults. However, in situations such as kidney disease, allergies, pregnancy or regular use of medicines, it is advisable to consult your physician or pharmacist.
Collagen is found only in animal sources; products sold as plant-based usually contain not collagen but other nutrients that the body uses to produce collagen. There is no strong evidence of a meaningful difference between sources in terms of wrinkles.
Because the collagen molecule is large, it is not expected to reach the deeper layers of the skin when applied in a cream. Such creams work mainly by moisturising the surface of the skin.
Yes, they can. Plant extracts, essential oils and fragrances added to the product can cause allergic contact dermatitis. If itching, redness or weeping occurs, stop using the product; if it does not go away, see a physician.
It is not safe. Some substances found in citrus fruits such as lemons and limes can, in combination with sunlight, cause a burn-like reaction and long-lasting brown marks. For dark spots, discuss safe options with your physician.
These expressions are mostly marketing language. No product given by injection can be considered natural; products of unknown composition carry a risk of infection, allergy and damage that is difficult to reverse. Injections should be carried out with licensed products and by a physician.
Cryolipolysis (Fat Reduction by Cooling)
No. Cryolipolysis aims to reduce localised fat deposits to some extent; a marked change on the scales should not be expected. It is not a suitable method for weight loss or the treatment of obesity.
In the first minutes you may feel intense cold, pulling and aching; as the area becomes numb, this sensation usually decreases. Some people may have pain that starts a few days after the procedure. The level of discomfort varies from person to person.
It is thought that new fat cells do not easily form in place of those that are removed; however, the remaining fat cells can grow if you gain weight. This is why whether the result lasts depends on keeping your weight stable.
No. A fat-dissolving injection is not a weight-loss method; it does not change the weight on the scales. The approved product has been studied only for the appearance of limited fullness due to fat under the chin.
The medicine whose active substance is deoxycholic acid is approved only for under the chin; the FDA does not recommend its use in other areas and has announced that serious side effects have been reported after use in those areas. The safety and effectiveness of mixtures offered for the abdomen or waist have not been evaluated by medicines regulators.
According to the US prescribing information, a maximum of six sessions can be given, with at least one month left between sessions. Most people need more than one session; the number is determined by the amount of fat and the response. The decision is made by the examining physician.
No. Cellulite is a difference in appearance seen in the great majority of women after puberty, and it does not harm health. Wanting treatment is a personal choice.
Excess weight can make cellulite more visible, and losing weight may reduce its appearance in some people. However, cellulite is also seen in slim people, and losing weight does not have the same effect in everyone.
Creams containing caffeine may give a temporary improvement; the evidence for the effect of creams containing retinol is limited. No cream is known that removes cellulite completely.
Alongside causes such as weight gain, it could be a rare condition called paradoxical adipose hyperplasia, which arises from growth of the treated fat tissue. It is usually noticed months after the procedure as a firm, applicator-shaped swelling. Show it to your physician; the diagnosis is made by examination and, if necessary, imaging.
According to the FDA, this condition does not go away by itself, and surgery may be needed to remove the visible swelling. Having cryolipolysis again on the same area does not solve the problem. The options for correction and their timing should be discussed with the physician who examines you.
There is no precise rate. In the first reports it was estimated at about one in twenty thousand treatments, and higher rates were found in later studies; a 2025 meta-analysis calculated it at about one in 450 people, but stated that the certainty of the evidence is low.
Problems after Fat-Dissolving Injections and Mesotherapy
Swelling is usually most noticeable in the first days and gradually goes down; with treatments under the chin, it can be striking for a few days. Swelling, redness, discharge or fever that increase as the days go by fall outside the expected course and should be shown to a physician.
Mild hardness that can be felt in the treated area for weeks, is not painful and gradually softens is expected. Nodules that grow, are painful, become red or do not get smaller after several months, however, require assessment by a physician.
Red-purple, painful or discharging swellings that appear weeks later may be a sign of late-onset infections such as atypical mycobacteria. These infections may not respond to ordinary antibiotics. Without taking any medicines on your own, see a physician the same day.
Both belong to the retinoid family. Retinol is found in cosmetic products, has to be converted to the active form in the skin and is generally less irritating; the evidence on it is more limited. Tretinoin is a prescription medicine in most countries, is the most studied retinoid in sun damage, and irritation is more common with it.
They can give a moderate improvement in fine lines due to sun damage and in skin texture; the effect appears over months. They do not remove deep lines, folds or sagging.
Mild redness, dryness and peeling are common in the first weeks and are usually irritation, not allergy. Reducing the frequency and moisturising can help. If there is marked swelling, blistering or intense itching, or if things do not ease, stop the product and see your physician.
If you stay away from windows and remain at home all day, the need is usually low. If you sit directly next to a window for long periods or have melasma, you can discuss your need for protection with your physician.
There is no strong evidence that daily use markedly lowers vitamin D levels in healthy people. If you are at risk of vitamin D deficiency, it is advisable to assess this by talking to your physician, not by giving up sunscreen.
It may be enough for short daily exposure outdoors; however, it needs to be applied in a sufficient amount and also to protect against UVA. If you will be outdoors for a long time, on snow or in the mountains, a separate sunscreen may be more suitable.
Studies carried out in real-life conditions have not shown that daily sunscreen use significantly lowers vitamin D levels in healthy people. If you are in a group at risk of deficiency, you can assess your level with your physician.
In theory they filter more UVB. However, there are few field studies with very high sun protection factor products; the data are insufficient to speak with certainty on this. If you need to practise strict sun protection, it is enough to discuss your vitamin D level with your physician.
The American Academy of Dermatology does not recommend getting vitamin D from the sun or from sunbeds; no safe length of time has been defined that provides sufficient production without increasing the risk of skin cancer. Vitamin D can be obtained through diet and, when necessary, through a supplement recommended by the physician.
Medical Aesthetics for Active Acne
Superficial peels can be used as an adjunct in mild and moderate acne; however, the evidence is limited and they do not replace medical treatment. Suitability is decided by the physician, who assesses the skin and the products you use.
It can reduce inflamed spots; however, the evidence is weak, it is not effective for blackheads, whiteheads or cysts, and who will respond cannot be known in advance. It is generally used together with a medical treatment.
Current guidelines did not find enough evidence to make a recommendation for laser and light-based devices. A reduction can be achieved in some people; it is rarely sufficient on its own and has risks such as burns and pigmentation.
A hypertrophic (raised) scar stays within the borders of the wound and mostly flattens and fades over time. A keloid, by contrast, grows beyond the borders of the wound, can go on growing for months or years and does not regress on its own.
No. A keloid does not shrink on its own; its growth may stop after a while. Treatments can flatten a keloid and reduce complaints, but they do not remove it completely, and recurrence can occur.
No, a keloid does not turn into cancer. Even so, raised areas that grow quickly, bleed, ulcerate or appear without an injury should be shown to a physician, as they may be a sign of another condition.
No. There is no muscle that opens and closes pores, and pores cannot be removed. When blockage is reduced and the skin’s support is preserved, they can look less noticeable.
This is a common belief, but it is not correct. Steam and lukewarm water can soften the build-up inside the pore; cold water can make the skin look tighter for a short time. Neither changes pore diameter; very hot water, meanwhile, can irritate the skin.
The size of the oil glands and skin type are largely related to genetic make-up. That said, sun damage, age, acne and skin care habits also affect the appearance.
A 10-Point Safety Checklist for Choosing a Clinic and Physician for Medical Aesthetics
A physician who cares about safety will answer these questions openly and comfortably. If your questions are brushed aside or left unanswered, that is a sign you should take into account.
The lot number shows which production batch a product comes from. If there is a side effect or a product-related warning in the future, it makes it possible to know which product was used on you.
In these settings, sterile conditions, product reliability and the possibility of emergency intervention usually cannot be ensured. Also, because no records are kept, planning the right treatment becomes harder if a problem occurs.
Who Can Perform Medical Aesthetic Treatments
No. Injections such as fillers and botulinum toxin are medical procedures; beauticians carry out non-medical cosmetic care treatments.
In Turkey, these matters are regulated by the Ministry of Health. It is also important that the physician is trained and experienced in that procedure; do not hesitate to ask the physician who will perform it about this.
Both specialties perform medical aesthetic procedures. The choice depends on the procedure you are considering, the physician's experience with it and the assessment at the examination. Procedures requiring surgery are within the field of plastic surgeons.
Counterfeit Products and Unlicensed Treatments
A home is not a healthcare facility. There are usually no sterile conditions, no means of emergency intervention and no record-keeping system. It is also known that a significant proportion of people who give treatments at home are not physicians and that the origin of the product is unknown.
This phrase does not mean the person is a physician. A short course or certificate is no substitute for medical training and complication management. Ask clearly who the practitioner is and in which healthcare facility they work.
Not always. A label in a foreign language, spelling mistakes, unusual packaging and a very low price are warning signs; but their absence does not show that the product is trustworthy. The most important safeguard is a physician and healthcare facility that obtain the product through authorised channels.
Medical Aesthetics in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
There are not enough data on the safety of botulinum toxin and filler treatments during pregnancy and breastfeeding. For this reason, it is usually recommended to postpone them until after this period.
Data on the safety of laser hair removal in pregnancy are limited, and it is usually recommended to postpone it. Because hair growth and pigmentation may also change in pregnancy due to hormones, waiting until after the birth is a more cautious approach.
Sun protection is important in pregnancy too and especially helps to prevent melasma. Some physicians recommend products with mineral filters in this period; you can ask your physician for advice when choosing a product.
Body Image and Aesthetic Treatments
Being bothered by your appearance from time to time is very common and is not a disorder in itself. If the worry takes up hours of your day, affects your work or relationships and wears you down a great deal, it would be helpful to see a mental health professional. Only a specialist assessment can make the diagnosis; this page does not make a diagnosis.
Research shows that in most people with this condition, aesthetic and dermatological procedures do not reduce the worry. The possibility that some people with mild symptoms may benefit has not been ruled out completely; for this reason the decision is made by the physicians who assess the person.
Getting a second opinion is your right. However, it is helpful first to ask why the procedure was not recommended. If you are getting a similar answer from more than one physician, getting support for the worry itself may be a more helpful step than looking for a new practitioner.
The common recommendation is not to lie down and not to stay face down for long for about the first four hours. This recommendation has not been tested in a controlled study; in a large retrospective study, no increase in problems was seen even without restrictions. Even so, follow the period your physician gives; ask them about sleeping face down at night too.
A brief bend is not expected to spoil the result; in a computer modelling study, bending over was calculated to change the area over which the medicine spreads by only fractions of a millimetre. Do not rub the area, and call your physician if there is a change in your eyelid or brow over the following days.
The recommended waiting time for strenuous exercise varies by source; the American Academy of Dermatology recommends two hours, and some leaflets give a longer period. Light everyday activity usually needs no restriction. You can go back to exercise after the period your physician gives.
Expert recommendations generally advise waiting at least 24 hours, that is, until the next day, for strenuous exercise; the aim is not to increase bruising and swelling. This period has been set by expert opinion, not by studies, and may be longer for some areas. Ordinary activities such as walking are usually not restricted; for heavy training and contact sports, follow the period your physician gives.
It is not recommended in the first days. A hot environment can increase swelling; in a Turkish bath, scrubbing, rubbing and contact with water can also give germs an opportunity to enter through the needle points. Expert panels recommend avoiding saunas and similar hot environments but do not give an exact period; wait for the period your physician gives.
Many physicians recommend not sleeping face down or leaning on the treated side on the first night or the first few nights; the aim is to avoid prolonged pressure on the area. This recommendation has not been tested in studies. Turning onto your side in your sleep will most likely not cause a problem; if you notice swelling that does not decrease or a new irregularity, show it to your physician.
Needle-Free Filler Pens and At-Home Treatments
No. The absence of a needle does not mean that the substance does not enter the tissue. Pressure devices do not give enough control over where the substance goes. In 2021 the FDA announced that these devices have not been approved for injecting filler and that serious injuries have been reported.
It is not recommended. The lips are an area rich in blood vessels, and the risk does not depend on the amount alone. The contents and sterility of the product, and where the substance goes in the tissue, cannot be controlled at home.
If you have no complaints, there is no need to panic. However, if firmness, swelling, redness, pain or discolouration appears in the following weeks, see a physician without delay and explain clearly what you used. Do not carry out a new treatment.
Medical Aesthetics for Young People
For cosmetic purposes it is not recommended in this age group: the face is still developing and there is no evidence of benefit. Legal limits vary by country; for example, in England cosmetic botulinum toxin and filler for under-18s have been banned since 2021. Ask your physician about the rules in the country you are in.
Parental consent may be necessary, but it is not sufficient on its own. The physician also needs to find the procedure medically appropriate, and the young person needs to want it and understand it themselves. In some countries certain cosmetic procedures are banned under the age of 18 even with parental permission.
Acne and acne scars, excessive sweating, birthmarks, scars and keloids are conditions that may need treatment at a young age. The examining physician decides which treatment is appropriate and when; treatment is not always a procedure, and most often it begins with medication.
Lumps, Granulomas and Vascular Occlusion after Collagen Fillers
Small lumps in the first weeks that can be felt when touched, do not hurt and cannot be seen from the outside are the most widely known problem with this product, and most decrease over time. For lumps that become visible, grow, turn red or appear months later, contact the physician who performed the treatment. Do not try to break them up by massaging.
Swelling, redness, tenderness and bruising are common in the first days. The most common problem specific to these products is lumps; inflammatory lumps (granulomas), infection and vascular occlusion are rare. Because vascular occlusion can lead to severe consequences such as vision loss and stroke, it is important to know the warning signs.
No. Hyaluronidase only dissolves hyaluronic acid; poly-L-lactic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite and polycaprolactone cannot be dissolved with this enzyme. The product is broken down in the body over time. Substances that may be able to dissolve calcium hydroxylapatite are being researched, but the evidence is limited.
Redness usually passes within a few days to a week. Redness that lasts more than a week, increases again or comes with itching, discharge or blisters may be due to irritation, allergy, infection or cold sores; show it to your physician without trying a new cream.
A few small spots and white cysts can appear during the healing period, and most are temporary. Do not squeeze them, and cut down on occlusive products. For spots that are increasing in number, painful or inflamed, and for firm bumps that do not empty when squeezed, see a physician.
Darkening of the skin after the treatment often fades over weeks and months; it is more common on darker skin. Strict sun protection is very important. Do not start strong lightening products on your own; your physician may recommend additional treatment if necessary.
Reading Before-and-After Photos
You are advised to be cautious. Research has shown that images of aesthetic procedures shared on social media frequently fail to meet criteria such as lighting, magnification and timing of the photograph. These images are selected examples; they do not predict the result of the procedure in you.
Most of the time it cannot be told for certain. Skin texture not being visible at all, blurred transitions at the edges and bent lines in the background can be clues; however, the absence of these clues does not show that the image has not been edited.
Because there is swelling in the tissue. After filler the area may look fuller than in its settled state, and fine lines may seem temporarily reduced. The result is assessed after the swelling has gone down; this period varies with the procedure.
Sweating Treatment Side Effects
The most common are pain at the needle points, small bruises and mild itching; they usually pass within days. Headache or muscle pain is reported uncommonly. Difficulty swallowing, speaking or breathing is very rare but an emergency; in that case, call 112 immediately.
It can. In a small study, hand grip strength did not change, whereas pinch strength between two fingers decreased for weeks and improved over time. If your work requires fine manual dexterity, discuss the timing with your physician in advance.
Because the effect of botulinum toxin is temporary, strength returns over time. However, recovery can take weeks to months. If the reduced strength is accompanied by numbness or weakness spreading in the arm, this is not the expected effect; contact your physician.
Group Aesthetic Treatments at Home and in Hotels
Because several of the conditions that make an injection safe are missing at once: a one-to-one examination and medical history, a suitable and clean setting, emergency equipment, verification of the source and storage of the product, records and follow-up. Added to this are hasty decisions made under the influence of alcohol and the group atmosphere.
The practitioner being a physician is an important condition, but not the only one. The suitability of the setting, the means to deal with an emergency, storage of the product, records and a follow-up examination are also part of safety. These conditions usually cannot be met in a home or hotel room. For the rules on who can carry out treatments and where, you can see our article on the subject, and if you are not sure you can ask for the treatment to be carried out in a healthcare facility.
Seeing the box is useful, but it is not enough on its own. Counterfeit products can resemble the genuine packaging; and the box does not show how the product was transported and stored. The real assurance is a healthcare facility that obtains the product through authorised channels and keeps a record of it.
Beyond a certain point, more cream does not increase the numbing; it only increases the amount of medicine reaching the blood. Do not go beyond the amount and the time your physician has specified.
Covering markedly increases absorption of the medicine through the skin. The FDA advises consumers not to cover the skin with cling film or another covering after applying non-prescription products. In some situations physicians may ask for covering over a limited area and for a set time; do this only if you have been clearly told to, and in the way you were told.
Application over a large area is the common feature of the serious poisonings that have been reported. Your physician decides which areas the cream can be applied to and whether the session needs to be divided. Many people can complete the procedure on large areas with cooling.
Travelling to Another Country for an Aesthetic Treatment
For non-surgical procedures there is no generally accepted institutional period; the existing recommendations on flying relate mainly to operations. For filler, expert consensus notes that signs of vascular occlusion can appear in the first days and recommends avoiding, during this period, a journey on which the dissolving enzyme could not be accessed. Ask your physician about the period for your own procedure.
With emergency symptoms, go to an emergency department in the country you are in. In non-urgent situations, contact the physician who performed the procedure and take your documents to the local physician you identified before you left. This is why it is important to decide before the journey which physician you will turn to.
Ordinary travel insurance often does not cover problems arising from a planned medical procedure. Read your policy, ask your insurer in writing and, if necessary, look into additional cover intended for this purpose. Also find out whether the physician’s or facility’s professional indemnity insurance covers you.