Pro Skin Treatments

Navigating the different types of dermatologist skincare procedures can be mind-boggling. From injectables and lasers to ultrasound and more, it can be difficult to know what works best for which skin concerns. Cut through the confusion-and find the best option for you-with this guide to common types of noninvasive professional treatments, including GH Beauty Lab experts' first-person experiences.

- APRIL FRANZINO

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Injectable Neuromodulators

These injected liquid proteins "work by blocking the molecule that makes face muscles contract and makes wrinkles visible, allowing the muscles to relax and smoothing the overlying skin," says Mona Gohara, M.D., an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine. Results are noticeable within one day to two weeks and last three to four months.

Benefits: Preventing and smoothing wrinkles; subtle lifting

Side Effects: Minimal pain; no downtime (minor redness, swelling, bruising and asymmetry can occur)

Cost: About $150 to $1,000 and up depending on number of injections needed and location

Common Brands: Botox, Xeomin, Jeuveau, Dysport, Daxxify

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Injectable Fillers

The two types-hyaluronic acid fillers (made of a sugar molecule that occurs naturally in skin) and biostimulatory fillers (which trigger collagen production)-plump skin from the inside, says Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, M.D., a dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology in New York City. With hyaluronic acid fillers, effects can be seen immediately; with biostimulatory fillers, the time frame is between one and four months. They last from one to two years.

Benefits: Adding fullness to and sculpting areas like the cheeks, lips and jawline; filling scars and lines

Side Effects: Moderate pain; possible temporary swelling, redness and bruising

Cost: About $600 to $2,500 depending on number of injections needed and location

Common Brands: Restylane, Juvéderm, Belotero, Sculptra, Radiesse, Bellafill

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