Cosmetic enhancement is generally a straightforward process – you explain your desired look, and your doctor or nurse recommends an aesthetic procedure – but along the way, you may come across some unfamiliar terms. If you don’t know your rhinoplasty from your rosacea, The Lovely Clinic has you covered. Our handy terminology guide explores the differences between easily confused terms, treatments and common cosmetic lingo. You’ll be confidently requesting BDDE cross-linked HA to correct the appearance of wrinkles in no time!
ADVANCED MUSCLE-RELAXING INJECTIONS VS. DERMAL FILLERS
These two popular treatments are often lumped together as they are both used to correct signs of ageing, despite being very different in their approach. Muscle-Relaxing Injections use a neurotoxin to temporarily block signals from the nerves, inhibiting muscle contraction. This softens existing fine lines and wrinkles and prevents new ones from forming. Dermal Fillers use a gel-like substance usually containing hyaluronic acid to restore lost volume, although there are other fillers available such as calcium hydroxyapetite in the form of Radiesse or HarmonyCa.
BRA FAT
Also known as armpit or underarm fat, this term refers to the excess skin that is pushed out from the edges of a bra, creating uneven and unwanted bulges.
CARBOXYTHERAPY
Carboxytherapy is an aesthetic treatment whereby carbon dioxide is injected beneath the skin to improve blood circulation. It is particularly effective at treating dark circles around the eyes, cellulite and crêpey skin.
CHEMICAL PEEL VS. SKIN PEEL
These are two phrases for the same thing. A Skin Peel uses a chemical solution to remove the outermost layers of the skin. This improves both the texture and appearance of an individual’s complexion. Peels can be superficial, medium or deep depending on the depth of skin that the solution targets. Superficial Peels are more like an intense exfoliation with no downtime required, whereas deep peels remove several layers of skin to effectively target specific concerns such as pigmentation and ageing.
CROW’S FEET
Sometimes referred to as smile or laughter lines, crow’s feet are the expressive creases that form at the corners of the eyes. They are often some of the first lines to develop due to the delicate nature of the surrounding skin.
GLABELLAR LINES
More commonly known as frown lines, glabellar lines are the vertical creases that form between the eyebrows due to repeated facial expressions.
GUMMY SMILE
A smile that shows an excessive amount of gum below the upper lip is known as a gummy smile. Medically referred to as ‘excessive gingival display’, this condition can be treated with Muscle-Relaxing Injections to reduce the upper lip’s elevation.
HYALURONIC ACID
This is a naturally occurring substance within the body, which can hold up to 1000 times its own weight in water. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is the primary ingredient in most Dermal Fillers and other skincare treatments, such as Profhilo®.
HYPERHIDROSIS
Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterised by excessive sweating. It may affect the whole body, or just specific areas, such as the underarms, palms or soles of the feet. Muscle-Relaxing Injections are an effective aesthetic remedy for hyperhidrosis.
INJECTABLES
Injectables is an umbrella term for procedures that use needles to inject substances under the skin. This may be to inhibit muscle contraction, restore volume or improve skin health. There is a long list of injectables, but the most popular treatments include Muscle-Relaxing Injections, Dermal Fillers, Profhilo® and Belotero Revive.
INTRACEL VS. ULTRACEL
INTRAcel uses radiofrequency microneedling to stimulate collagen production and firm the skin. ULTRAcel goes one step further, using ultrasound waves to target the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS). This layer of tissue could previously only be tightened via surgical methods.
JUVÉDERM
A brand name of popular, long-lasting Dermal Fillers. The Juvéderm range uses the chemical ‘1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether’, or BDDE, to cross-link hyaluronic acid. This prevents the body from breaking it down so quickly, meaning results can last for up to 24 months depending on the product used.
NON-SURGICAL BROW LIFT
As we age, skin becomes lax and causes the brow area to move down. A Non-Surgical Brow Lift uses targeted Muscle-Relaxing Injections to correct this shift, giving a refreshed and youthful appearance.
NON-SURGICAL RHINOPLASTY
Often referred to as the ‘Liquid Nose Job’, Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty uses Dermal Filler injections to reshape the nose. This aesthetic treatment is extremely popular as unwanted lumps, bumps and hooks can be corrected immediately, without the associated downtime and cost of surgery.
PRP THERAPY
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy is an aesthetic procedure that harnesses your body’s natural self-renewal function. It is used to treat a range of skin complaints, including sun damage and discolouration. Blood is taken in the same way as a blood test and then put into a machine to separate the platelet-rich plasma. This is then injected back into the body, helping with cell repair and renewal.
ROSACEA
A common skin condition that makes the skin appear flushed or red, typically affecting the face. It is not known what causes rosacea but it is often triggered by alcohol, spicy food and caffeine.
SMOKER’S LINES
The lines that etch the lips are particularly visible when the mouth is puckered. Although known as ‘Smoker’s Lines’, these creases develop on everyone in time as part of the ageing process.
BOOK YOUR AESTHETIC TREATMENT AT THE LOVELY CLINIC
To discover the wide range of treatments on offer at The Lovely Clinic, book a skincare consultation with one of our expert practitioners. We provide a complete analysis of your skin and will recommend suitable ways to correct imperfections, aligned with your desired look.
Your practitioner will explain how each one works, the results to expect and how long they will last. You can also use this time to ask any questions you may have to ensure that you feel happy and confident moving forward with your chosen plan.
Call 0203 695 5400 or complete our online booking form to schedule your consultation.
