Aging brings with it inevitable physical changes, and as time passes, many people begin to notice diminishing volume in their hands. In their desire to restore youthful density and fullness to their hands, many individuals seek out available hand rejuvenation treatments. Unfortunately, while many treatments exist, success is not always guaranteed. At Nunnally Dermatology in Baton Rouge, LA, we understand the need for results and are proud to offer Radiesse injections as a solution.
How Does Hand Rejuvenation Work?
Hand rejuvenation treatments like RADIESSE® and RADIESSE® (+) are minimally-invasive, non-surgical solutions to improve the appearance of aging hands. These dermal fillers work by restoring volume and filling any wrinkles or creases in the hands while also improving skin texture.
During the treatment process, a small amount of the filler is injected directly into the skin. The dermal filler then works to instantly lift and shape the area being treated, leaving behind a more youthful look.
Stimulating Collagen
Additionally, the active ingredients in these dermal fillers help stimulate collagen production in the skin, which helps to keep it elastic and supple. Collagen is an essential protein generated by our body that allows us to maintain a healthy complexion. It is responsible for keeping our skin firm and elastic as well as providing structural support to other tissues in our body.
As we age, however, our body’s production of collagen slows down, resulting in wrinkles and sagging skin that can lead to an aged appearance to our hands. Dermal fillers such as RADIESSE® and RADIESSE® (+) help boost collagen production, allowing us to achieve natural-looking results.
Hydrating the Skin
Radiesse dermal filler contains hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally-occurring substance found throughout the body that plays a critical role in skin hydration and volume. When injected into the skin, hyaluronic acid works by attracting water molecules to the surface layers of the skin to support hydration levels from within.
This means that although it may feel like you’re getting an instant result with Radiesse injections, it’s really just kick-starting your body’s own natural process of restoring moisture balance in the deeper layers of your dermis.
How Long Does It Take for Radiesse Filler To Settle?
Most of us want quick gratification. We don’t want to wait if we’re looking for a change in our appearance, which is understandable. But, when it comes to cosmetic treatments like Radiesse filler, it pays to give yourself time for the filler to settle.
While the fillers do provide small changes instantly after injection, it typically takes between two and three weeks for Radiesse filler to totally settle and make adjustments before you see desirable results. We usually advise our patients not to make any judgments about the results before then because there will most likely be some shifts in the placement or volume, allowing the filler to adjust on its own over time.
How Long Does Radiesse Take To Build Collagen and Elastin?
While the filler does much of the immediate work, such as instantly adding volume, it also triggers your body’s production of collagen, which is necessary for long-term results. Though you may see improved contours around three weeks after treatment, complete benefits may take up to 12 weeks; this is when collagen production has reached its peak and final results are visible.
How Long Do Hand Rejuvenation Results Last?
The effects of Radiesse typically last from 18-24 months depending on the individual’s skin type, metabolism, and lifestyle choices. For many people, the results will start to become less noticeable at around the one-year mark, when touch-up treatments may be needed.
Although it may be tempting to wait until all signs of aging are back before getting another treatment, it is crucial to begin maintenance treatments sooner in order to keep your hands looking their best. At Nunnally Dermatology, we believe that everyone deserves beautiful hands no matter what their age or lifestyle is like. Our team strives towards helping you maintain youthful-looking hands through maintenance plans tailored specifically for you.
What Should You Not Do After Radiesse?
Massaging Treatment Area
There are several reasons why it is best to avoid massaging the treatment areas after receiving Radiesse injections. First, massaging the treatment area may spread the product unevenly, resulting in visible lumps or bumps under the skin, which can lead to an unnatural or unappealing appearance of the hands. Aside from being unsightly, these irregularities can also be quite uncomfortable and potentially painful.
Second, massaging the treatment area can increase inflammation and redness at the injection site, which can persist for days afterward. This discomfort can be quite uncomfortable as well as aesthetically displeasing. In addition to this short-term redness, there is also a possibility of long-term damage such as scarring or discoloration in the affected area if it is massaged shortly after receiving Radiesse injections.
Sunbathing
Sunbathing is a popular activity during the summer months when people want to catch some rays and get a nice tan. However, if you’ve recently had a Radiesse treatment to rejuvenate your hands, you should avoid sunbathing altogether. This is because UV radiation from the sun can cause an alteration in the appearance of the treated area that could interfere with the desired results.
Additionally, sun exposure may increase inflammation and redness in the treated area, resulting in skin discoloration and uneven pigmentation.
Saunas
Saunas can cause increased blood flow, which can potentially lead to increased swelling. This can cause complications with your injection site and adversely affect your results. Secondly, saunas are known to make people feel quite flushed or overheated, which can aggravate the injection site even further. So be sure to give yourself enough time to heal before you take a dip in the hot tub or enjoy a steamy session in the sauna.
Waxing
After having an aesthetic treatment such as Radiesse, the skin can be delicate and more prone to irritation. Waxing could potentially cause further discomfort and inflammation due to its intensity. Moreover, there is a risk of infection when waxing after having Radiesse injections. Waxing can cause small tears in the skin, which could potentially increase the risk of infection when combined with the use of injected agents such as Radiesse.
When done too soon after Radiesse injections, waxing may pull away some of the product that has been injected into the hands, leading to less desirable results. To ensure safety and optimal results, it is best to wait for at least two weeks before engaging in any type of waxing.
What Should You Do After Radiesee?
Resume Normal Activities Immediately
Radiesse is a great option for individuals with busy lifestyles, as it requires no downtime following treatment. You can continue driving, studying, or working without missing a beat.
Apply Creams or Lotions
Applying moisturizers such as creams or lotions can help eliminate dryness and flaky skin while also protecting your hands from further damage. When choosing a product, consider not only hydration properties but also ingredients and SPF levels for additional protection from environmental aggressors. Many body lotions are formulated with anti-aging ingredients like retinol or peptides that can help smooth out wrinkles as well as intensely moisturize the skin on your hands.
Stay Hydrated
Keeping your body hydrated is essential in any kind of skincare routine, especially so when undergoing treatments such as Radiesse injections to rejuvenate the hands. Not only does drinking plenty of water help moisturize but it also helps flush out the toxins in our bodies. Consequently, this contributes positively to your treatment results, giving your skin the best chance at looking gorgeous in the long run.
Eat a Balanced Diet
While skin cells are constantly regenerating, the nutrients we consume can have an impact on the rate at which this regeneration takes place and the new skin cells created. Foods rich in vitamins A and C, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, are known to benefit the skin as they help produce collagen and elastin.
Additionally, foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation while increasing hydration levels within your body, leading to more radiant-looking skin. Thus, by incorporating a balanced diet with your skin rejuvenation regimen, you can help improve your results.
Restore Youthfulness to Your Hands Today
Are you concerned about the signs of aging showing in your hands? At Nunnally Dermatology, we have the solution. Our Radiesse treatments provide natural-looking results to help restore lost volume and smooth wrinkles. Our experienced team is committed to providing you with a safe and comfortable experience throughout your hand rejuvenation treatment. Contact Nunnally Dermatology in Baton Rouge, LA, today to discuss what options are available for you!