Resveratrol Benefits | As Seen in CNN

Dr. Alexandra Bowles expands upon her insights from her recent feature in CNN Underscored: What is resveratrol? Derms explain the benefits of the anti-aging skin care ingredient.

What is resveratrol?

Resveratrol is a naturally occurring compound in certain plants, fruits, and vegetables. It is a type of polyphenol, a category of plant compounds with antioxidant properties. This is often used as a health supplement.

Where does resveratrol come from?

Resveratrol can come from various plants but is particularly abundant in red grapes, wine, berries, peanuts, and dark chocolate. The skins of red grapes are one of the richest sources of resveratrol. It is also found in grape seeds and, to a lesser extent, in grape leaves. Red wine, in particular, contains resveratrol because it is made with the skins of grapes. The fermentation process used in winemaking can concentrate the compound. Certain berries, including blueberries, cranberries, blueberries, dark chocolate, peanuts, and peanut products such as peanut butter, are other sources of resveratrol.

What does resveratrol do for the skin?

Resveratrol offers several potential benefits for the skin, primarily due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. For one, resveratrol helps neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and damage skin cells. This protection can help prevent premature aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Resveratrol also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness, swelling, and irritation. This can be particularly beneficial for acne, rosacea, and eczema. Additionally, by protecting the skin from oxidative damage and supporting the skin’s natural repair processes, resveratrol can help maintain skin elasticity, improve texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Resveratrol can also improve the skin’s barrier function, potentially enhancing moisture retention and preventing dryness.

Retinol is often considered the gold standard anti-aging ingredient. How does resveratrol compare to retinol?

Retinol and resveratrol are effective anti-aging ingredients, but they work in different ways and offer distinct benefits. Retinol is a form of vitamin A that promotes cell turnover and stimulates collagen production. It helps to exfoliate the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve skin texture and tone. Retinol is highly effective at reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots by accelerating cell turnover and increasing collagen production. It can also help manage acne by preventing clogged pores and reducing excess oil production. In addition, retinol can improve skin texture and smoothness by removing dead skin cells and encouraging the growth of new skin.

Resveratrol is a potent antioxidant that helps protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve skin tone and brightness. Resveratrol neutralizes free radicals, helping to prevent premature aging and protect the skin from environmental damage. It can reduce redness and irritation, making it beneficial for sensitive or inflammatory skin conditions. Resveratrol can also help improve skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation, leading to a more even complexion.

Is retinol or resveratrol gentler on skin?

Resveratrol is generally considered more gentle than retinol, especially regarding potential skin irritation and sensitivity. Retinol can be more irritating, especially when first introduced into a skincare routine. Resveratrol is typically well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. Its primary function as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory means it usually doesn’t cause irritation or dryness. Retinol, on the other hand, can cause redness, dryness, peeling, and increased sensitivity to sunlight. This is why it’s important to introduce retinol to the skin slowly.

Are there certain skin types that should use resveratrol over retinol and vice versa?

Depending on their specific needs and concerns, different skin types may benefit more from resveratrol or retinol. For example, resveratrol is generally more gentle and soothing, making it a good option for those with sensitive skin who may experience irritation with more potent ingredients like retinol. Resveratrol can also benefit those with inflammatory skin conditions, such as rosacea or eczema, by helping to reduce redness and irritation without exacerbating these conditions. Furthermore, resveratrol can offer antioxidant protection and mild anti-aging benefits for those in their 20s or early 30s who are looking for preventative anti-aging care without the need for solid actives. Resveratrol’s antioxidant properties can help improve skin tone and brightness if the primary concern is hyperpigmentation or dull skin.

Conversely, Retinol is highly effective for addressing signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. It promotes collagen production and increases cell turnover, making it ideal for mature skin. Retinol can also help manage acne by regulating sebum production and preventing clogged pores. It also helps fade post-acne marks and scars. Retinol can help balance oil production, making it suitable for those with oily or combination skin types. It can effectively treat sun damage, such as age spots and uneven skin texture, due to its ability to accelerate skin cell renewal.

Does resveratrol have any side effects?

Resveratrol is generally considered safe for most people, mainly when used in moderation and as part of skincare products. However, like any active ingredient, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Although rare, some people may experience mild irritation, redness, or itching when using resveratrol products, especially if they have sensitive skin or if the product has a high compound concentration. In rare cases, individuals may have an allergic reaction to resveratrol, resulting in symptoms like rash, hives, or swelling. While not a common side effect, resveratrol could make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Therefore, it’s always advisable to use sunscreen during the day, especially when using active skincare ingredients.

What is the best way to use resveratrol?

The best way to use resveratrol largely depends on your skin type, the specific product you’re using, and your overall skincare routine. For most people, resveratrol can be used daily. It’s gentle enough to be incorporated into both morning and evening routines. Regular use helps maximize its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. If you have susceptible skin or are introducing resveratrol into your routine for the first time, you might start by using it a few times a week and gradually increase to daily use as your skin adapts.

Applying resveratrol in the morning can help protect the skin and show many benefits from oxidative stress and environmental damage throughout the day. It pairs well with sunscreen to provide additional protection against UV damage. A simple morning routine can include a cleanser, resveratrol serum, and sunscreen. However, using resveratrol at night is also beneficial, as it can work alongside other nighttime skincare treatments, such as retinol or hydrating serums. The skin’s repair processes are active overnight, allowing resveratrol to enhance anti-aging and repair. A sample evening routine can include a cleanser, a resveratrol serum that can be used alongside other serums or treatments, and a moisturizer.

Can everyone use resveratrol? Should they?

While resveratrol has many potential benefits and is generally considered safe, it may not suit everyone. Whether or not someone should use resveratrol depends on several factors, including their skin type, specific skin concerns, medical history, and overall skincare goals. Patients who may benefit from resveratrol include those seeking antioxidant protection or addressing signs of aging, such as reducing fine lines and skin elasticity or reducing inflammation due to sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea or eczema. However, if you have a known allergy to sources of resveratrol, such as grapes and red wine, or if you have susceptible skin, it’s essential to exercise caution and consider alternatives when using resveratrol.

Should you avoid mixing certain skincare ingredients with resveratrol? If so, what?

While resveratrol is generally well-tolerated and can be combined with many skincare ingredients, there are a few combinations where caution might be advised to prevent potential irritation or reduced efficacy. Ingredients to use with caution include high-strength exfoliants (AHAs/BHAs) such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid to avoid the risk of skin irritation. Instead, consider using exfoliants in the morning and resveratrol in the evening or alternate days. Other ingredients include retinoids, such as retinol and tretinoin, which can also cause further irritation, vitamin C, and benzoyl peroxide, which may cause skin irritation or reduce the product’s efficacy.

Ingredients that are generally safe to use with resveratrol include hyaluronic acid to moisturize and soothe the skin. niacinamide, to offer anti-inflammatory properties, peptides to support collagen production, and ceramides to help restore and maintain the skin barrier.

Can you experience the skin benefits of resveratrol by consuming foods that contain it?

Consuming foods rich in resveratrol can contribute to overall skin health. Still, the benefits of resveratrol may not be as direct or pronounced as those achieved through topical application of resveratrol in skincare products. Consuming resveratrol-rich foods may help reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can benefit skin conditions related to inflammation, such as acne or rosacea. Resveratrol can improve blood circulation, which may help with skin health by ensuring the skin receives adequate nutrients and oxygen. However, if you’re interested in incorporating resveratrol into your diet, consider these foods. Foods that can help include: red grapes, particularly the skin, which is high in resveratrol; red wine, which contains resveratrol but should be consumed in moderation due to alcohol content; berries, such as blueberries and raspberries, which also contain resveratrol, and dark chocolate, though moderation is critical due to sugar content.

Why do you think resveratrol has blown up on TikTok?

With the evolution of social media, there has been a growing interest in skincare and anti-aging products, particularly among younger audiences. Resveratrol, known for its antioxidant and anti-aging properties, fits well into this trend. Influencers and skincare enthusiasts often play a significant role in promoting products. When influencers with large followings share their positive experiences with resveratrol, it can quickly become a trend. Additionally, the scientific research supporting the potential benefits of resveratrol, such as its antioxidant properties and ability to protect against skin aging, gives it credibility. This scientific backing often appeals to consumers looking for effective skincare solutions.

There is also a growing preference for natural and clean beauty products. Resveratrol, a naturally occurring compound in foods like grapes and berries, aligns with this preference. It is also available in various forms, including serums, creams, and supplements, making it accessible to many consumers. Its inclusion in well-known brands’ product lines also boosts its visibility. TikTok’s format of short, engaging videos allows for quick and visually appealing demonstrations of products. Skincare routines, product reviews, and before-and-after transformations can quickly capture viewers’ attention and encourage them to try new products. TikTok users are often curious and willing to experiment with new products and trends. The platform’s community-driven nature fosters a sense of discovery and experimentation, which can drive interest in new ingredients like resveratrol.

What is your opinion on the resveratrol garnering attention as a ‘youth-preserving’ ingredient?

I think it’s wonderful that people are starting to take more ownership of their skin and really looking into the ingredients of the products they are using. Resveratrol is a great product with antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin from free radicals in the environment that we know lead to aging and thus keep you looking more youthful and refreshed.

Teen Skincare Secrets & Teen Acne Tips

Is your teen skincare obsessed? Local board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mona S. Foad shares her top tips for teens, including what products they should (and shouldn’t) be using, the science behind acne breakouts (including teen acne tips), and when it may be time to seek help from a professional.

Teen Skincare Simplified

Back to Basics

If your teen wants to begin a skincare routine, it’s best to start simple with a cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, antioxidant, and potentially a retinol if needed. These products are the foundation for a great skincare routine. Specialty products can be added in, as needed or desired, from there.

Use Caution with Actives

Ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or retinol can be helpful in moderation (especially for acne-prone skin). However, using too many active ingredients in combination can damage the skin barrier and cause dryness and irritation. Keep an eye on the products your teen is buying, and educate them on the importance of using only one or two products with active ingredients at a time. If your teen experiences burns, irritation, rashes, or dryness, consult a professional, such as a dermatologist. It could be that they are having an allergic reaction to the products or they are using too many products that are drying out their skin and disturbing the natural microbiome of a healthy skin barrier.

Limit Variety

While popular skincare products can look cute and be fun to try out, they could also cause more harm than good. When trying out multiple new products at once, it can be hard to pinpoint if one of them is causing breakouts or irritation. It is especially important to use caution if your skin is sensitive or acne-prone. If you enjoy adding variety to your skincare routine, try to stick to switching out products such as gentle cleansers, lightweight moisturizers, or mineral-based sunscreens. While there is always a risk of irritation when introducing a new product, these are generally tolerated by most skin types.

Teen Acne Tips: CAUSES

Hair Follicles

At all ages, acne breakouts begin when small pores in our skin, known as hair follicles, become blocked or inflamed. We also have sebaceous glands attached to these hair follicles, which produce oil.

Clogged Pores

Sweat, makeup, dirt, oil, or dead skin cells can build up and clog the hair follicle over time. At the same time, bacteria can create inflammation in the hair follicles. These factors can contribute to the formation of breakouts.In addition to these typical causes of acne, changes in our hormones and oil glands during puberty can make acne more severe.

Oil Glands

When teens go through puberty, hormones cause existing oil glands within the hair follicles to enlarge. This causes an increase in oil production within the cells of the hair follicle canal. This increase in oil often causes whiteheads or blackheads to form.

Bacteria

During puberty, there is also an increase in the production of acne-causing bacteria. This can cause whiteheads or blackheads to become more inflamed. If this inflamed material cannot be released, it can break down into the skin and cause deeper cystic lesions to form.Your teen’s acne could be rooted in any of these causes (or more likely, a combination of them). For this reason, patients often require a few different treatment strategies used together to achieve the best results.

Teen Acne Tips: Treatments

Treat the Bacteria

Using benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics, or oral antibiotics can all help to treat the bacterial component of acne. By reducing the acne-causing bacteria, inflammation within the hair follicle can improve.

Increase Cell Turnover

Consider using a topical over-the-counter retinol or prescription retinoids such as Retin-A, Differin, or Tazorac. These will help increase cellular turnover and normalize the top layer of skin. This helps to prevent blackheads and whiteheads from forming.

Unclog Pores

If you sweat or wear makeup, make sure you are washing your face to prevent buildup from accumulating within the hair follicle. Adding a topical acid, such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid, will help exfoliate your skin further.

Normalize Hormones

Birth control pills or spironolactone (for women) are two ways to help target the hormonal component of acne.

Accutane

Accutane is a vitamin A derivative that can be used if necessary to help shrink the oil gland within the hair follicle. This medication should only be prescribed by a trained professional and requires lab monitoring.

In-Office Treatments

At Mona Dermatology, we have several treatment options that can treat the causes of acne, such as normalizing the skin or killing bacteria. Our favorites include the BBL Hero “Forever Clear” acne treatment, chemical peels, and the Diamond Glow facial.

CONSULT AN EXPERT

Constantly trying out new skincare products or combing the wrong ones can be a recipe for a skin disaster. It’s important to make sure your teen is caring for their skin properly, but it can be challenging to know what they are using.

At Mona Dermatology, we offer teen skincare consultations that are the perfect place to start! Your teen will be treated to a 45-minute visit, including VISIA Skin Imaging, an in-depth education on the basics of a good skincare regimen, and a complimentary skincare travel bag. They will leave with a basic understanding of what products are harmless to experiment with and which they should avoid combining, so they can have fun with skincare safely. Schedule a teen skincare consult by calling 513.984.4800.

Mohs Surgery 101

Mona Dermatology is excited to announce a new provider and a new service offering this fall, thanks to the addition of local Mohs surgeon, Dr. Kasie Kudrewicz Adkins.

Have you or a loved one ever had skin cancer on your face? Then, you may have been referred to a Mohs surgeon to have this treated. Mona Dermatology is now offering Mohs surgery, in addition to our existing cosmetic and medical dermatology services.

What is Mohs surgery?

Mohs surgery is a type of outpatient skin cancer surgery, named for its founder, Dr. Frederic E. Mohs. This specialized type of surgery allows a these surgeons to completely remove skin cancer cells while minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy skin. Undergoing Mohs surgery is very safe and only uses local anesthesia. Mohs surgery is the most effective way to treat non-melanoma skin cancers with a five-year cure rate of more than 98%!

How does Mohs surgery work?

Your surgical team will begin by making sure you are comfortable, prepping the area for surgery, and numbing the area with a local anesthetic. Then, the Mohs surgeon will begin by gently removing thin layers of the cancerous tissue. They will examine the layers of tissue under a microscope to confirm that all cancerous cells have been removed. Your surgeon will continue this process until the cancerous lesion has been removed completely and only healthy skin remains. This technique is what makes Mohs surgery beneficial. It is highly precise and only removes small amounts of tissue at a time. It requires your surgeon to be highly specialized. They must act as both a surgeon and pathologist at the same time.

Who is a candidate?

The precise technique of Mohs surgery is often recommended for cosmetically important areas. This includes the face, ears, nose, fingers or toes. It also is recommended in certain cases if skin cancer is recurrent, at a high risk for recurrence, aggressive, fast growing, or large, if it has indistinct borders, or if the patient is immunosuppressed.

If you have a suspicious spot that has not yet been diagnosed by your dermatologist, it is best to begin by scheduling a spot check or complete skin exam online or by calling the office at 513.984.4800

Fall for Chemical Peels: Chemical Peel Benefits

If achieving flawless, glowing, and healthy skin is on your fall to-do list: Chemical peels may be for you! These medical-grade facial treatments have minimal downtime and are safe for all skin types. They are the perfect choice for skin maintenance or even addressing skin concerns. This includes: acne, acne scarring, brown spots, pores, or texture. Mona Dermatology aesthetic providers, Kylee Finn, RN and Amanda Schmidt, LME, break down the science behind chemical peel treatments and answer your top questions about chemical peel benefits.

How do chemical peels work?

Kylee, RN: Chemical peels use the applications of various chemicals, such as alpha-hydroxy acid or salicylic acid. This causes the top layers of your skin to shed over a short period of time. During the appointment, your provider will apply multiple layers of the chemical peel solution onto your skin. These solutions consist of retinol, and different types of acids to raise the acidity of the skin. When you change the acidity of the skin it causes the skin to start to exfoliate, causing your peeling. The peeling of the skin promotes rejuvenation of healthy skin cells. This allows new, fresh skin to be revealed after the peeling.

Will I “peel”?

Amanda, LME: There are different levels of chemical peels such as superficial, medium depth or deeper peels that cause more layers of skin to peel. Your provider will help choose the best peel for you. This depends on the severity of your skin condition, what type of skin condition you want to treat, and how sensitive your skin is. Chemical peels can range from gentler treatments that will refresh your skin and cause no peeling at all to deeper peels that can improve more advanced concerns.

What can a chemical peel treat?

Chemical peels treat many different skin conditions such as sun damage, hyperpigmentation, melasma, acne, acne scarring, and other concerns. There are many benefits to a chemical peel making it versatile.

Sun Damage:

Chemical peels can address the visible signs of aging caused by sun damage. This can be done by, increasing the turnover of skin cells and promoting collagen production. Common concerns include superficial lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, brown spots, and more. In addition to addressing these cosmetic concerns, some chemical peels can also help to exfoliate actinic keratosis. These precancerous lesions develop in the epidermis of your skin as a result of sun exposure. Overtime, this has the potential to develop into skin cancer.

Hyperpigmentation:

A chemical peel helps exfoliate the skin, which reveals fresh and youthful skin underneath. In addition to boosting your collagen production, a chemical peel can also help exfoliate sun-induced brown spots as well as hyperpigmentation from various conditions such as acne scarring and melasma. By addressing these key causes of hyperpigmentation, chemical peels help even out and benefit your skin tone over time.

Melasma

Melasma is often triggered by hormone changes in the body which cause an overproduction of pigment in the superficial layers of the skin. A chemical peel can help increase your skin cell turnover, and exfoliate brown patches without causing heat-induced inflammation that can actually trigger melasma. Therefore, chemical peels are a great way to decrease the visible signs of Melasma.

Acne & Acne Scarring:

By promoting the shedding of skin and reproduction of skin cells, chemical peels can help heal acne breakouts quicker and prevent them from becoming inflamed. It can also help fade the leftover red pigment caused by acne, called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and some types of acne scarring. In addition, salicylic acid peels are a great way to help treat active acne as well as acne scarring.

Fine Lines & Wrinkles:

if you’re seeking a no-needles way to soften superficial wrinkles and fine lines, a chemical peel may be a great option. By increasing cell turnover and boosting collagen production, a series of chemical peel treatments can help lessen the appearance of wrinkles over time. For deeper wrinkles, other treatments such as Botox or lasers may be a better choice.

Rosacea

Some lighter chemical peels contain mandelic acid, which can help calm inflammation. As a result, this can decrease the redness in your skin from rosacea. Chemical peels may not be the best choice for all patients experiencing rosacea. Your provider will help you choose what products and treatments are right for you.

Click the video below to read more about this customizable treatment!

Cheek Filler Placement: How-To Guide

Some of us are born with sunken cheeks, while others notice facial drooping during the aging process. No matter your reasoning for seeking out a cheek filler treatment, it can lift and rejuvenate your profile to make you look and feel your best. However, every person is different. Our providers at Mona Dermatology are extensively trained in the latest filler injection techniques, allowing them to customize treatments to each patient’s unique facial structure. They are experts at facial analysis and proper placement to give you a great outcome.

Here are a few of their favorite places to use filler:

Cheekbone Filler: Rejuvenating

The cheekbones, or zygomatic bones, are one of the most well-known structures when it comes to defining the contours of your face. With age, this area suffers fat pad loss, which leads to a flat, hollow appearance. Placing fillers in the soft tissue around your cheekbones can replace lost volume and produce a rounder and more youthful appearance. For patients who have not experienced volume loss yet, cheek filler treatment can also be a great way to enhance existing facial features. By defining the profile of your cheeks, younger patients can reveal a more contoured and slender facial shape.

Before | After

Temple Filler: Lifting

Drooping cheeks create deep frown lines and the appearance of loose skin around the mouth, making your face appear more square-shaped than it is. Injecting fillers above the cheekbone can lift that drooping skin upwards to restore facial balance. Additionally, our providers may recommend pairing this lifting treatment with filler around the actual nasolabial folds, or tired lines around the nose and mouth, depending on your unique facial anatomy.

1 syringe of Juvederm Voluma XC to temples & piriform (2 additional syringes were used elsewhere on her face): Before | After

Midcheek Filler: Rounding

The midcheek area is the place to target if you’re hoping for apple cheeks, since filler in this area has a rounding and plumping effect and helps restore your face to a youthful triangle shape. Your provider may choose a filler with a higher G prime that allows your provider to achieve maximum lifting results. Alongside increasing facial volume, midcheek filler can help reduce the appearance of eye bags and dark circles, making it perfect for adult patients of all ages.

1 Syringe of Juvederm Vollure: Before | After

Lateral Cheek Filler: Defining

Who doesn’t love the appearance of a sharp and well-defined bone structure? Filler around the jawline — one of the most popular locations — can dramatically improve your profile, sharpening flat features for a more sculpted look. By combining Juvederm Volux XC, the only FDA-approved filler for the jawline, under the chin with sturdy Voluma XC to build structure in the lateral face, our expert providers pronounce your natural jawline and create an elegant facial structure.

4 Syringes of Juvederm Volux Treatment: Before | After

Not sure what filler treatment is best for you? Schedule a consultation with one of our providers to learn more!

Korean Cleansers | As Seen in Vogue

Dr. Alexandra Bowles expands her insights on the top Korean cleansers, shared in her recent Vogue feature: The Best Korean Cleansers for Refreshed and Hydrated Skin.

How to choose a Korean cleanser:

When choosing any cleanser, it’s important to start by understanding the ingredients. Everyone’s skin is unique and when trying new products, you want to make sure you’re making the right choice. To choose Korean cleansers, determine your specific skin concerns. If you happen to have oily skin, consider searching for a foaming or gel Korean cleansers with ingredients such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil. This will help to control excess oil. If you happen to have skin on the dryer side, focusing on a hydrating or oil-based cleaner with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid is ideal. And for those with combination skin, consider a gentle or sensitive cleanser that can target both oily and dry areas.

What Korean cleansers are best?

To find the right cleanser for you, start by considering your unique skin concerns and needs. Here are a few top choices:

- COSRX Advanced Snail Mucin Gel Cleanser: A budget-friendly pick perfect for dry or sensitive skin, thanks to its unique ingredient, snail mucin.
- Glow Recipe Avocado Ceramide Moisture Barrier Cleanser: Ideal for dry skin, this cleanser boasts a rich, hydrating texture typically found in facial creams.
- SUPEREGG Gentle Elements Cleansing Foam: A great choice for sensitive and dry skin. True to its name, this cleanser is gentle and helps support delicate skin.

What is the Korean cleansing method?

The Korean cleansing method is a two-step skincare routine. We’re usually used to one round of cleansing, so it’s an interesting method. The first round of cleansing features an oil-based cleanser. This removes makeup, sunscreen, and anything else oil-based that appears on our face throughout the day. This effectively remove these products without stripping the skin. The second round of cleansing is with a water-based cleanser. This removes any remaining products or buildup and cleanse any sweat and dirt.

Filler Myths: Fact or Fiction

Filler is a popular injectable cosmetic treatment for adding or restoring volume in the lips, cheeks, under eyes, jawline, and more. Board-certified dermatologists, Dr. Mona Foad and Dr. Alexandra Bowles, share the truth behind what you may have heard about filler myths and whether or not it’s fact or fiction.

“One syringe of filler will be enough to treat multiple areas on the face”: Fiction

Dr. Mona: Believe it or not, a syringe of filler usually only con-tains 1 ml of product. In comparison, a ketchup packet contains over 8 ml. For this reason, one syringe of filler does not go that far, especially when trying to restore lost volume in multiple areas of the face such as the cheeks, temples, lips, and more. How many syringes do most people get? That depends on how many areas you want to treat and how much volume loss you may have. If you are nervous and only want to do one syringe, I recommend choosing one area on your face, like your lips for example, to get the best result.

“Fillers replace lost volume that happens as we age”: Fact

Dr. Mona: We naturally lose volume in the face as we age. We lose bone, muscle, and collagen at the same time as our fat pads flatten and shift downward, all of which can cause jowling and a more sunken or hollow look. Fillers can be a great way to immediately treat areas where volume has diminished and to restore a more youthful version of ourselves.

“Most fillers are made up of products that are naturally occurring in your skin”: Fact

Dr. Mona: Hyaluronic acid is produced by our bodies and can be found in areas such as our eyes, joints, and skin. Most dermal fillers are made up of hyal-uronic acid, such as Juvederm Collection, RHA Collection, Restylane, and Belatero. Hyaluronic acid fillers are a great option because they have a very low risk of allergic reactions, due to their natural occurrence in the body. The other benefit of hyaluronic acid fillers is that they are dissolvable, so the treatment can be reversed if necessary. Radiesse, another popular filler, is made of calcium hydroxyapatite, another naturally occurring substance in our skin.

“Filler is unsafe or risky”: It depends

Dr. Mona: Although most filler treatments are safe, with few side effects, complications are possible with any medical procedure, and filler is no different. There are many blood vessels and arteries in the face. If the filler is injected into these areas, serious complications can arise. However, choosing the right provider is the best and most important step you can take to reduce this risk and ensure you have a safe and effective treatment. Ensure that the office you are visiting has a physician on staff who is board-certified in a related field, such as a Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon.

You also want to ensure that the individual provider who you are seeing has extensive experience and training in not just the treatment, but also on how to handle any complication. At Mona Dermatology, all of our providers hold advanced degrees (such as MDs, DOs, PAs, NPs). They also train for a minimum of six months prior to seeing patients. It is important to ask your provider about these potential risks at your first visit and understand how they will handle a complication in the unlikely event that it does occur.

“Lip filler will look unnatural”: Fiction

Dr. Alexandra: Filler injections are highly customizable. Results can vary depending on the provider’s technique as well as the patient’s natural lips. Often, individuals you may see with obvious over-filled lips have had multiple syringes placed in the same area over a short period of time. A well-trained provider who is skilled at giving natural-looking results can enhance the shape of your lips in a way that still fits your facial anatomy. We discuss patient expectations and proportions before each procedure to ensure that both myself and the patient are on the same page with regards to shape, volume, and overall look. Additionally, as we age, we begin to lose volume in our face such as the mid face and lips. Filler treatments is a great way to maintain the youthful volume in these areas and continue to age gracefully.

“Filler can correct facial imbalances”: Fact

Dr. Alexandra: Dermal filler treatments are a great way to correct asymmetry and balance facial features. Popular treatment areas for balancing the facial pro-portions include temples, cheeks, chin, jawline, and lips. It is very important to see a provider who can do a full facial assessment. They are able to provide you with a treatment plan that addresses all areas of your facial anatomy. It is always beneficial to see before and after photos of past full-face treatments your provider has given. Providing volume in proper areas can result in a beautiful refreshed result that still looks very natural.

“Filler goes away quickly or stays for a long time”: It depends

Dr. Alexandra: Hyaluronic acid–based dermal fillers, such as Juvederm or RHA, last 6–18 months. Filler is metabolized in the body varies between patients and depends on the area treated and type of filler used. This determines the speed it metabolizes at. For example, filler around the mouth may not last as long as filler in the cheeks. This is due to the properties of the filler and constant movement of the mouth. As a result, it is possible some people may notice their filler results disappearing quicker or lasting longer.

“Filler will make me look frozen”: Fiction

Dr. Alexandra: A common misconception! Fillers add volume to treatment areas, such as the lips, cheeks, or undereye. A filler treatment will not give the ap-pearance of looking “frozen.” Botox on the other hand, is a neurotoxin which temporarily paralyzes or softens muscle movements to relax wrinkles over time. It is possible that someone could get too much Botox. By stopping their muscle movement entirely, which can lead to this frozen look. A well-trained provider utilizes techniques that ensure your muscle movement is appropriately reduced while still maintaining a natural look.

“It’s expensive”: It depends

Dr. Alexandra: Depending on the office where you are being treated, a sy-ringe of filler can range from $600 to $1,000. If you are treating one area, such as your lips, it is possible to only need one syringe. This will leave your final cost of treatment under $1,000. You may need a larger number of syringes when treating multiple areas. Large amount of volume loss you wish to replace may also require a larger number of syringes. If you are considering a filler treatment and are curious about the cost, it is best to have a consultation. At your consultation, your provider can provide you with a personalized treatment plan and estimate costs before beginning.