Facial Rejuvenation Procedures: Skin Tightening vs. Injectables

As we gain knowledge and experience over the years, it is crucial to recognize and embrace the natural signs of aging that accompany this journey. Fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity may become more prominent, serving as reminders of the passage of time.  

Although we cannot turn back this process, we have the power to redefine our approach to aging. 

As the premier skin centre in Vancouver Island, Cosmedica has been at the forefront of revolutionary aesthetic treatments for 25 years. We pride ourselves on providing our patients with the best skin rejuvenation treatments and facial rejuvenation procedures available, paired with highly personalized treatment plans unique to you. 

Through our decades of experience and expertise, we have helped thousands of patients feel their best in their own skin. So, let us jump in and have a closer look at the difference between skin-tightening treatments and injectable treatments. 

Skin Tightening vs Injectables at a Glance

Similarities 

• Skin tightening and injectable treatments are non-surgical solutions. 
• There is little to no downtime, meaning you can resume most of your daily activities after your appointment. 
• There is a possibility of bruising and swelling for up to 48 hours following the treatments.

Differences 

• Skin tightening technologies are non-invasive, while injectables are minimally invasive. 
• Skin tightening results are gradual because collagen needs time to heal and reproduce, taking about 3-6 months to see the full effect. With injectable treatments, the dermal filler portion delivers immediate results, while neuromodulators will take two weeks to settle. 
• Skin tightening treatments targets sagging or lax skin, while injectable treatments help contour, lift, and enhance your features. 
• Skin tightening follows the skin’s natural aging process, the results are best for up to 18 months. On the other hand, dermal filler results may last up to 12 months, but neuromodulators will need a touch-up every 3 to 4 months. 

What causes aging? 

As we progress in age, the natural production of collagen in our skin diminishes, leading to issues like skin laxity, the emergence of fine lines, and wrinkles. Moreover, the skin loses its capacity to retain moisture and maintain volume due to a decrease in natural hyaluronic acid.  

Various life events like pregnancy or weight loss can further influence the elasticity of our skin. Additionally, certain lifestyle choices such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high levels of stress, and insufficient sleep can have detrimental effects on skin health. 

Explore skin tightening treatments 

Skin-tightening treatments are non-surgical cosmetic procedures aimed at enhancing the appearance of loose or lax skin. Typically employing heat or energy-based technology, these treatments stimulate collagen production in the skin, leading to gradual firming and tightening effects.  

With age, our body's collagen production diminishes, resulting in sagging and an uneven skin texture. Skin tightening treatments revive collagen production and contribute to lifting facial features, promoting a naturally youthful look. 

When it comes to advanced skin-tightening, some leading options are Ultherapy utilizing ultrasound technology, Thermage using radiofrequency energy, and Morpheus8 using microneedling and radiofrequency technologies. 

• Ultherapy

Ultherapy employs focused ultrasound technology to remodel existing collagen fibers and stimulate new collagen production. This results in improved skin firmness, smoother fine lines and wrinkles, and lifted facial features. The process continues to enhance the skin's appearance over time.  

There is no downtime to this treatment except for possible bruising and swelling, and it’s safe to treat in the summer. 

• Thermage 

Thermage uses radio frequency energy to heat deep skin layers while keeping the surface cool for safety. It remodels existing collagen, promotes new tissue production, and provides immediate firming and lifting effects. With a strong reputation and celebrity endorsements, Thermage® is a trusted non-surgical solution for tightening and toning loose skin. 

Bonus tip: Maximize your skin-tightening and rejuvenation results by pairing Thermage with Fraxel, a renowned gold-standard resurfacing treatment. This powerful combination, known as ThermaFrax, offers enhanced effectiveness in optimizing your skin-tightening and rejuvenation goals. 

• Morpheus8 

Morpheus8 is a non-invasive procedure that combines microneedling and radiofrequency technology to restructure your skin. Utilizing tiny pinpricks, Morpheus8 channels radiofrequency waves deep within the skin, warming the dermis to promote deep collagen production.  

The radiofrequency waves also stimulate the production of elastin, resulting in plump, smooth, and youthful-looking skin. The addition of microneedling intensifies the impact of the radiofrequency treatment, further enhancing its effects. 

Bonus tip: Using the Morpheus8 Body handpiece, we can maximize skin-tightening results on the body. Such as abdomen, upper arms, knees, thighs, buttocks, and elbows. 

What to expect from injectables 

Injectables, also called Soft Lift, is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that combines the use of neuromodulators (a.k.a Botox) and dermal fillers to address a range of concerns on the face, including fine lines, wrinkles, loss of volume, and to rejuvenate the look. 

• Neuromodulators (aka Botox) 

During your injectable treatment, neuromodulators are injected to relax the muscles that cause “dynamic wrinkles.” Although dynamic wrinkles are a natural part of facial expressions, repeated motions, combined with the gradual decline in collagen production, can lead to the formation of static wrinkles or lines that persist even without facial movements.  

These static wrinkles commonly appear on the forehead, between the eyebrows (elevens), and around the eyes (crow's feet). 

• Dermal Fillers  

Dermal fillers, a.k.a “liquid facelift”, complement your neuromodulator injections. Filler injections incorporate hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring sugar molecule in the body known for its ability to retain moisture.  

These fillers are specifically formulated to minimize the visibility of fine lines in regions like the marionette lines and nasolabial folds. Additionally, they restore volume in areas such as the temples, cheeks, lips, chin, and tear troughs, resulting in a rejuvenated appearance and addressing profile balancing. 

Which approach suits you best? 

Considering your main concern and aesthetic goals is the primary step to decision-making. 

Ultimately, skin-tightening treatments and injectable treatments complement each other to provide a comprehensive and natural approach to rejuvenating aging skin.  

Skin tightening stimulates your body's natural collagen production to restore youthful skin, while Soft Lift treatments instantly address fine lines, wrinkles, and asymmetry by adding volume. 

"Skin tightening treatments can improve surface skin texture such as 'crepey' skin, acne scarring, stretch marks and mild laxity. Used in combination with treatments such as dermal filler they can help to lift and define the brow line, lower face, and neck." 

- Kate, treatment designer & trainer at Cosmedica 

Before making a decision, it's always best to consult with a certified treatment expert. They will evaluate your skin, consider your medical history, and understand your beauty goals to provide personalized advice on which path to take. 

Start Your Skincare Journey with Cosmedica The Skin Centre 

Schedule a consultation today with one of our expert treatment designers to determine the most suitable treatment plan for you, unique to your own needs, goals, and budget.