Dermatology treatments can give your self-confidence a boost, but there are a lot of myths surrounding them. Understanding these myths can help you make a more informed decision about your health.
Myth 1: All Procedures are Permanent
It’s easy to assume that once you have a treatment done, you are set. In reality, most cosmetic procedures only offer temporary results. This is critical for setting realistic expectations around maintaining your results.
For example, dermal fillers can last up to two years, although the exact length they will last depends on the kind of filler. Chemical peels also require regular maintenance. Your dermatologist can let you know what to expect after your procedure.
Myth 2: Only Older Adults Get Cosmetic Treatments
While many cosmetic treatments are used to slow down or reverse signs of aging, that doesn’t mean they are only for older people. Younger adults are also being more proactive around taking care of their skin.
Doing certain treatments earlier in life can help you maintain your youthful looks, reducing the need for more invasive treatments later on. For example, getting microneedling can help your skin produce more collagen, which plays an important role in improving your skin’s texture and minimizing fine lines.
Even if you don’t have any skin concerns right now, seeing a dermatologist when you are still in your 20s and 30s can help you create a skincare plan that will help your skin look as healthy as possible. They might recommend neuromodulators to prevent lines or wrinkles from forming. They may also recommend chemical peels to help with acne, uneven skin tone, or hyperpigmentation.
Myth 3: Only Celebrities Can Get Cosmetic Treatments
Even though celebrities often get dermatological treatments, they are not the only ones to whom treatment is accessible. There are plenty of high-end procedures available, but there are plenty of other ones that anyone can get.
You might be surprised at how affordable some procedures are. If you choose the right clinic, you will likely find that you can access a variety of options. You can also use a patient financing provider to make care even more accessible to you. A payment plan provider will help you split upfront costs, so you can avoid putting off treatment until you have all the funds set aside.
Myth 4: Cosmetic Dermatology is Unsafe
It’s normal to feel concerned about side effects and the safety of cosmetic dermatology. Even though there are risks in any procedure, dermatology has to follow strict regulations to ensure that patients stay safe. It's important to choose a practitioner with the right qualifications. They should have board certification, which means they will have had extensive training.
The right provider will put your wellbeing first, and a reputable provider will make sure to talk things over with you to make sure you are informed about any potential side effects or risks. The FDA is in charge of regulating cosmetic procedures, and all treatments and products need to meet strict standards. Ensure you choose a clinic that has been around for a while and that has a record of positive patient outcomes.
Myth 5: Cosmetic Procedures Look Fake
One of the most common myths around different cosmetic treatments is that the results will always look fake. When you think about these procedures, you may think of stereotypes, like huge lips or strange facial features.
The reality is that these stereotypes are based on extremes and are not nearly as common as social media might make them seem. Most providers want to give you natural, safe enhancements. They will work with you to address your concerns, not dramatically alter your appearance.
For example, a dermal filler can fill in your lips or cheeks without causing your face to puff up, and laser resurfacing can reverse damage from scarring or the sun, giving your skin a more natural, even tone.
If natural results are especially important to you, make sure you choose a dermatologist with board certification and extensive experience. Ask to see results from past patients to ensure they are able to provide aesthetic results. It's also important to communicate openly so your provider is aware of your expectations.
Myth 6: Cosmetic Dermatology is Addictive
Many people mistakenly believe that they can become addicted to getting cosmetic treatments. Addiction is much rarer than the media makes it seem, and it usually comes from other psychological issues. Most of the time, these procedures are simply a tool to meet beauty goals.
A good provider will evaluate both your body and your reason for getting the treatment to make sure your expectations are in line with reality. If they have reason to believe that you have body dysmorphia or another disorder, they may recommend seeing another specialist for therapy. If you do believe you have psychological concerns, it’s important to address those first.
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