Glossary

A purified protein that temporarily relaxes the muscle it is injected into. Often used for expression lines or a strong jaw muscle. The effect fades over a few months. Bruising or headache can occur; rarely, eyelid drooping.

A gel, most often hyaluronic acid, placed under the skin to add volume or soften folds. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved if needed. Rarely, it can block a blood vessel.

Small injections placed shallowly in the skin, usually hyaluronic acid–based, aimed at hydration and texture rather than volume. Small bumps, bruising or swelling can occur for a few days.

High-intensity focused ultrasound. It delivers focused heat to layers beneath the skin without cutting the surface. Pain and swelling are common; burns and altered sensation are rarely reported.

Uses electrical energy to warm the deeper layers of the skin. Some devices combine it with fine needles, called RF microneedling. Redness and swelling can occur; burns are rarely reported.

A low-energy laser passed evenly over the face, often used for uneven pigmentation. Usually done as a series of sessions. Redness can occur; rarely, pigment can become darker or lighter in spots.

The days after a treatment when redness, swelling or bruising may be visible. It differs by treatment and by person.

SPF shows protection against UVB, the rays that burn. PA shows protection against UVA, the rays linked to skin ageing. Applying enough, every day, matters more than the highest number.