Cosmetic Injectables Decoded
By Amber Sharp, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC,
Owner of Phases Medical Spa
In the ever-evolving world of medical aesthetics, we now have access to a wide array of rejuvenating treatments. Each targeting different concerns and mechanisms of aging. Among the most popular and effective options are neurotoxins, dermal fillers, biostimulators, and platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs). While they may seem similar at first glance, these treatments differ significantly in how they work, what they treat, and how quickly results appear. Understanding these distinctions is key to making confident, informed choices on your journey to natural, refreshed beauty.
Neurotoxins: relax the wrinkles
Botox®, Dysport®, and Daxxify™ are purified proteins derived from botulinum toxin type A. Neurotoxins temporarily block the signals between nerves and muscles. This limits muscle movement in treated areas, which softens dynamic wrinkles caused by facial expressions like frowning, squinting, or smiling.
Common treatment areas:
- Forehead lines
- Glabellar lines (“| |s” between the brows)
- Crow’s feet around the eyes
- Masseter (jaw slimming), chin dimpling, and neck bands
Results appear in 3–7 days and typically last 3–6 months.
Ideal for those looking for quick, preventative, or corrective treatment of fine lines and expression-related wrinkles.
Dermal fillers: restore volume and contour
Dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring sugar that retains moisture. Fillers are injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth static wrinkles, and sculpt facial features. HA-based fillers also attract water, adding hydration and plumpness.
Common treatment areas:
- Cheeks and midface
- Lips and perioral lines
- Nasolabial folds and marionette lines
- Jawline, chin, and under eyes (tear troughs)
HA fillers offer immediate results, lasting 12–18 months, depending on the product and area.
Ideal for those wanting natural-looking volume restoration, contour enhancement, or hydration boost without surgery.
Biostimulators: trigger your skin to rebuild
Sculptra® (PLLA) and Radiesse® (CaHA) work beneath the surface to stimulate the body’s own collagen production. Unlike HA fillers that provide immediate volume, biostimulators rebuild skin structure over time. They’re particularly useful for patients with generalized volume loss or skin laxity.
Common treatment areas:
- Temples
- Cheeks
- Jawline
- Buttocks and décolletage
Results develop gradually over several weeks to months and can last up to 2 years or more with proper maintenance.
Ideal for those looking for long-term improvement in skin firmness and structure rather than instant volume.
Platelet-derived growth factors (pdgf): regeneration from within
Treatments like PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) concentrate natural growth factors from your own blood to rejuvenate skin. After a simple blood draw, the sample is spun to isolate platelets and fibrin. These are rich in growth factors that stimulate healing, collagen production, and tissue regeneration when injected or microneedled into the skin. Especially beneficial for delicate areas like under the eyes.
Ariessence pure PDGF+ is a cutting-edge solution for skin rejuvenation. This lab-engineered (no blood draw), pharmaceutical-grade formulation delivers a high concentration of PDGFs combined with hyaluronic acid. PDGF stimulates fibroblast and endothelial cell proliferation, increasing collagen and elastin production, essential for maintaining youthful, healthy skin. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid provides immediate hydration, soothing the skin post-treatment.
Common treatment areas:
- Under eyes
- Scalp (for hair restoration)
- Face (combined with microneedling)
- Acne scars, fine lines, and overall tone/texture
Results evolve over weeks, with collagen and cellular renewal improving for up to 6–12 months. Series of treatments are often recommended.
PRP and PRF are ideal for those seeking a natural, regenerative option using their own biology. Ariessence pure PDGF+ is ideal for those seeking a natural, regenerative option without the need for blood draws.
Choose what’s right for you
Each of these aesthetic options serves a unique purpose. Whether you’re freezing fine lines with neurotoxins, plumping lips with HA fillers, rebuilding collagen with biostimulators, or harnessing your body’s healing power through PDGFs, the best outcomes come from a personalized plan tailored to your anatomy, aging pattern, and aesthetic goals. Often, the most stunning and natural results come not from one treatment but from a thoughtful, layered approach that blends science, art, and expertise.
When in doubt, book a free consult at Phases Medical Spa and we will recommend the right combination for you. Visit our website at phasesmedicalspa.com to view our service menu or for more information call 302-500-4220.
we invite you to visit our website at www.phasesmedicalspa.com to view our service menu or call 302-500-4220 for more information.
Bio
Amber Sharp is a board-certified family nurse practitioner and has worked in the healthcare industry for more than 15 years. Skin health is her passion, and she is dedicated to providing safe, science-driven, evidenced-based treatments.
Testimonial
“This is my third time coming to see Amber!!!! Her care is top notch, and she always takes extra time on me! I feel like I’m her only client and I feel safe when she recommends things to me! You can truly feel that Phases Medical Spa truly takes the time to make their customers feel comfortable and welcome!! She has done several facials, filler, and laser hair removal and I’ll be coming back again soon! DON’T THINK! JUST BOOK! YOU WON’T REGRET IT!!”~ M.N.
Phases Medical Spa
1012 North Walnut Street, Milford, Delaware
302-500-4220 www.phasesmedicalspa.com
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