In the beauty industry, lips are often highlighted to be the most essential feature of the face. From radiant lipsticks to smiling techniques, there is a consistent desire to have attractive lips. In the last decade, the number of lip augmentation procedures has increased while the demand for thicker, natural-looking pouty lips has similarly grown. This desire for thicker-looking lips has in part been addressed by the cutting-edge technology of hyaluronic acid-based fillers that are safe and effective.
The ideal lip
According to a recent study, the ideal youthful lip is one with a slight protrusion of the upper lip in comparison to the lower lip. It should not have any visible wrinkles or rhytids on the skin, especially above the vermilion border.
There are two conditions which often make one seek out lip augmentation: naturally-thin lips and age-related definition loss. Aging causes the deflation of the vermilion border or the prominence of cupid’s bow and philtral columns, thinning of the lips’ volume, and wrinkling on the surface. Other factors that contribute to dehydration and aesthetic concerns are extensive exposure to the sun and heat, pollutants, constant smoking or puckering, and the loss of hyaluronic acid.
Importance of HA
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally-occurring hydrating molecule that is available within the extracellular matrix of the skin. This glycosaminoglycan binds water molecules that provides support to the skin’s connective tissue fibers, collagen, and elastin. The emergence of wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and marked imperfections on the skin are caused by the gradual depletion of the concentration of hyaluronic acid, with harmful free radicals and environmental stressors also playing a role. In respect to lips specifically, the loss of hyaluronic acid reduces the suppleness of the lips.
Therefore, a major focus of many skincare and medical supplies is to replenish the hyaluronic acid content in the skin. As a brand favored by many dermatologists, Restylane offers a solution that is specific for the lips. Manufactured by Galderma, Restylane Silk delivers 20mg/ml of hyaluronic acid to the submucosa of the lips for rejuvenation and volume. This hyaluronic acid is sourced from the fermenting process of Streptococcus bacteria that is crosslinked using butanediol diglycidyl ether
(BDDE). This process allows the hyaluronic acid gel to endure rapid degradation once it is in the body. In contrast to other fillers, Restylane Silk is thicker once it is secured within the skin, which in turn gives it a greater capacity to lift the lips in the applied area.
The quick and easy procedure should take only 15 to 30 minutes to complete. Use a thin 30G½” needle and slowly administer the Restylane Silk into the submucosal layer using either a serial puncture or linear threading technique. Avoid overcorrecting, as it may result in swelling or bruising. Do not inject Restylane too superficially, as it may result in visible lumps or bluish discoloration. Also, avoid intramuscular injections to prevent any bruising or complications. If the gel looks uneven, gently massage it to let it conform to the shape of the targeted site.
Restylane has an impressive track record of showing satisfactory improvements within six months, so it is to no surprise that many dermatologists use Restylane Silk for lip borders or corners of the mouth that are flattened. Beneficially, it is less likely to cause the Tyndall effect in comparison to other Restylane products. That being said, Restylane Lyps and Kysse are still a top choice alongside Restylane Silk.
There are many options for lip augmentation, but it is critical to choose a product that is appropriate for the circumstances. Overall, Restylane Silk has proven itself as a highly favored filler that is satisfactory to both the injector and the patient.
