What injectables cover
Injectables at a med spa usually fall into two groups. Wrinkle relaxers are a purified protein injected in small amounts into specific facial muscles. Dermal fillers are gels, many based on hyaluronic acid, placed under the skin in chosen areas.
Both are given by licensed providers where state law allows. Who may inject is set by state rules, so in California the provider might be a physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant or registered nurse, depending on those rules and any supervision they require.
A consultation comes first. The provider asks about your health and what you want to discuss, and decides what is suitable.
Blood thinners, supplements and bruising
Medicines come up early in any injectables consultation. Blood thinners, aspirin and some supplements such as fish oil, vitamin E and ginkgo can make bruising more likely, so a provider will want to know about them. Some antibiotics and other medicines can matter too.
Bring a full list, including things you buy without a prescription. Do not stop a prescribed medicine to prepare for an injectable unless the person who prescribed it agrees. The licensed provider weighs your list with your health history and decides what is suitable, or whether to wait.
Planning around events
Bruising and swelling are possible after injectables, so timing is worth thinking about before you go ahead. Look at your calendar for weddings, photos, travel, presentations or anything else where you want to feel at ease. Note those dates and bring them to the consultation.
Also note any dental work or medical procedures coming up, and when you last had injectables, if ever. The licensed provider can then say whether now is a sensible time or whether to wait. Injectables are given by licensed providers where state law allows, and the provider sets the plan with you.
Questions about injectables
Who can give injectables in California?
Who may inject is set by state rules, and they differ. Depending on the rules, injectors may include physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners or registered nurses, sometimes under supervision. Injectables are always given by licensed providers where state law allows. Ask any provider what license they hold and who supervises them.
Will I be treated at the consultation?
Sometimes. Some providers can treat at the same visit if you both agree, and others prefer a separate appointment. Sending a request on this site does not book or commit you to anything. You can always take time to think after hearing the provider's view.
How do I know which product a provider is using?
Ask. A provider can tell you the product type, whether it is a wrinkle relaxer or a dermal filler, and why they suggest it. You can also ask for the product name and amount to be noted in your records, which helps if you see a different provider later.
Ask your questions first. A local provider can contact you by phone, text or email.
Ask a providerMore consultation topics
Skin treatments
Facials, chemical peels and microneedling. Ask a local provider what each involves and which, if any, may suit your skin.
Laser sessions
Curious about laser hair removal? Request a consultation with a provider in or near Irvine and ask your questions.
Body treatments
Non-surgical body treatments such as body contouring. Ask a local provider what a treatment involves and whether it may suit you.