Juvéderm® XC is a part of a class of cosmetic products known as dermal fillers. The most important ingredient in Juvéderm® XC is a substance known as hyaluronic acid, and biologically, it is considered a sugar. It is found in the human body, as well as animals and other organic sources like plants. The primary role of hyaluronic acid is nutrient transfer in the body, ensuring that organs like skin get the fuel they need to stay active and healthy.

Juvéderm® XC has been approved for use in the USA by the Food & Drug Administration. It is a product of Allergan Holdings, an Irish pharmaceutical corporation with global reach. The manufacture of Juvéderm® XC is not animal-based, making it a vegan-friendly choice.

How Does Juvéderm^® XC Work?

While skin is made up of the same chemicals regardless of our age, the presence or absence of certain substances is what differentiates young skin from older skin. Youthful skin has two major characteristics; one is that it is “tight,” which we associate with smooth surfaces, and even plumpness in certain areas, such as cheeks and lips. The other characteristic is the “elasticity” of skin. The lower portion of the face goes through a huge range of movements from mouth movements for speaking to the way our face changes to display emotion.

Once people pass the age of 50, however, these characteristics of tightness and elasticity decrease. Part of the reason for this is the hyaluronic acid that was once plentiful, providing a structure to the face, and efficiently transmitting nutrients is no longer being replaced by our bodies in large supply. As a result, the lines that use to be prominent only when laughed, are now always there, the lips that once seemed full lose their thickness, and wrinkles form as parts of the skin sink or sag, while others do not.

Juvéderm® XC rectifies this with a “resupply” of hyaluronic acid that can be targeted towards the cheeks, lips, and muscles surrounding the mouth. This not only fills in wrinkles, and restores “plumpness,” it also rejuvenates the skin making it look more youthful and healthier, not just smoother.

The Treatment

Juvéderm® XC, being an injectable dermal filler, does not require any surgery or associated preparation. You can make an appointment, and be out and back at home on the same day. Juvéderm® XC is administered through a needle, but a local anesthetic—often a numbing cream—is used to minimize the discomfort experienced.

Once Juvéderm® XC has been injected, there are immediate, noticeable results. Some minor side-effects for some patients include light bruising or discoloration in the injection areas. It’s important to treat your face delicately for the first 24 hours, avoiding strenuous activities, and trying to keep the face elevated. While you will see results very quickly, the full effect may take several days to express.

It’s important to remember, however, that Juvéderm® XC, like other injectable dermal fillers, is not a permanent solution. The effects will last about a year, though you may want to think about a visit for touch-ups after six months.

If you’d like to lose the wrinkles, lines around your mouth, or other signs of aging around the lower portion of your face, but don’t feel that surgery is the answer, talk to a medical specialist about getting Juvéderm® XC injections.