JUVÉDERM® XC is an FDA-approved hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal filler that's used to address issues with facial wrinkles.
Specifically, the gel-like material contained in the injections targets facial skin affected by a loss of skin elasticity by filling out wrinkles around common problem spots like nose and mouth lines (“smile lines”).
It’s a treatment that may benefit adults 21 and older who have not had success with topical creams and similar remedies.
JUVÉDERM® XC Target Areas
Other than smile lines, JUVÉDERM® XC may be used within cheek areas and vertical lip lines affected by noticeable wrinkles. How this injectable substance works on wrinkles will be determined by:
- Wrinkle line depth
- Facial skin condition and health
- Skin pigmentation or coloration
Replacing Lost Hyaluronic Acid
Found in greater amounts the eyes and joints, hyaluronic acid (HA) is a substance that naturally occurs in the body. Over time, HA levels can decrease, which contributes to a loss of skin volume and other changes that can result in a loss of elasticity and an increase in wrinkles. JUVÉDERM® XC restores HA levels to normal. In turn, the boost in HA levels helps wrinkles fade or become less noticeable as more facial volume is created.
Before & During Treatment
Before JUVÉDERM® XC treatment takes place, patients are usually examined to locate specific problem areas. Goals and objectives related to treatment are also typically discussed so that patients know what to expect. Patients are usually asked to arrive for treatment with their face free of makeup, moisturizer, and other substances. Smoking is also discouraged prior to treatment since certain chemicals in tobacco products may affect tissue healing.
A JUVÉDERM® XC injection is delivered into the second layer of skin (dermis), which is the thickest layer. After the injection is given, the treated area is sometimes lightly massaged to help evenly distribute the gel-like substance that’s injected. Doing so may also reduce issues with temporary facial swelling. Lidocaine is usually included with the injection to improve patient comfort.
Potential Benefits
In addition to minimal recovery time, patients opting for wrinkle treatment involving JUVÉDERM® XC may also enjoy results lasting anywhere from six months to a year or more. This reduces the need to worry about wrinkles returning shortly after treatment is completed. Also, the type of filler used in this type of Juvederm product can be used safely and effectively on many different skin types.
The gel that’s used has also been shown to reduce issues with scarring with a raised appearance (hypertrophic scarring) and differences in skin coloration (hyper-pigmentation). JUVÉDERM® XC is also a type of treatment performed in a way that increases patient comfort while still producing the desired results. Additionally, there are two different formulations for patients to choose from when opting for JUVÉDERM® XC injections.
If you visit a medical spa for the purpose of getting JUVÉDERM® XC injections to deal with facial wrinkles, you’ll first have an initial consultation and examination to determine if this is the most appropriate procedure for your needs. Possible side effects associated with this treatment that may include redness, tenderness, and minor discomfort are generally considered mild.