The attitude toward cosmetic injectables like fillers and neuromodulators has shifted dramatically. Once whispered about behind closed doors, these treatments are now openly discussed, with more people—particularly women—embracing them as part of their regular self-care routine. The "quiet facelift" has ushered in a new era of minimally invasive procedures aimed at maintaining a youthful appearance with subtle, natural-looking results.

The Evolving Mindset

Once associated with overdone or frozen expressions, fillers and neuromodulators are now being rebranded as essential maintenance tools rather than extreme measures. Social media transparency and the destigmatization of aesthetic treatments have made it easier for people to talk about injectables. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, minimally invasive cosmetic procedures have grown by nearly 200% since 2000.

Women in their 20s and 30s are turning to neuromodulators (Botox) as a preventative measure, while those in their 40s, 50s, and beyond are using them to soften existing lines. Fillers (Juvederm), often made from hyaluronic acid, are used to restore lost volume and smooth deeper wrinkles. According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), 70% of individuals considering a cosmetic procedure are women aged 35–55, but there’s also a growing demographic of women over 60 embracing these treatments.

At the same time, the rise of GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) has reshaped the conversation around body contouring and facial rejuvenation. These medications are effective in promoting weight loss, but rapid weight reduction can often lead to volume loss in the face, sometimes referred to as "Ozempic face." As a result, there’s been a notable increase in demand for fillers and skin tightening treatments to restore facial fullness and maintain youthful contours.

Age Groups and Trends

• 20s–30s: Preventative neuromodulators are common, aimed at slowing the formation of dynamic wrinkles. Subtle lip enhancement with fillers is popular. Lasers are often used for early sun damage repair and to address mild pigmentation concerns. Many in this age group are also exploring GLP-1 medications for weight management and then seeking complementary aesthetic treatments to address volume loss.
• 40s–50s: Combination treatments become more common, targeting volume loss, fine lines, and skin laxity. Neuromodulators and fillers are often complemented by laser treatments and skin tightening procedures. Hands are frequently treated with lasers to minimize age spots and improve skin texture. Women using GLP-1 medications for midlife weight management often require additional skin tightening and volume restoration treatments.
• 60s and beyond: There’s a growing trend of women seeking treatments to maintain a refreshed, natural look. According to a study published in JAMA Dermatology, over 30% of cosmetic procedure patients are now aged 55 and older. Lasers play a significant role in addressing age-related pigmentation and improving skin elasticity on both the face and hands. GLP-1 medications are increasingly popular for managing weight and metabolic health in this age group, but often necessitate additional facial rejuvenation treatments to counteract volume loss.

The Process: What to Expect

Consultation: The journey usually begins with a thorough consultation where a board-certified injector evaluates facial anatomy, discusses goals, and creates a tailored treatment plan.

Procedure: Neuromodulators involve the injection of botulinum toxin into targeted muscles to temporarily relax them, reducing dynamic wrinkles. The process takes about 10–15 minutes. Fillers are injected to restore volume, contour the face, and fill in static lines; this can take 15–30 minutes depending on the area.

Downtime: One of the key advantages is minimal downtime. Neuromodulators may cause slight redness or bruising that subsides within hours to a day. Fillers might lead to swelling and bruising that can last a few days, but most people return to normal activities immediately.

Cost and Frequency: Costs vary based on location, provider expertise, and the amount of product used. On average:

• Neuromodulators: $300–$600 per area, typically lasting 3–4 months.
• Fillers: $600–$1,200 per syringe, with effects lasting 6–18 months depending on the product and area treated.

Many people plan for treatments 2–4 times a year to maintain results.

Targeting Specific Concerns Around the Mouth

As we age, the perioral region (area around the mouth) often shows signs of aging first. Common concerns include:

Vertical Lip Lines (Smoker’s Lines): Fine lines that form above the upper lip due to repetitive puckering motions, smoking, or sun damage. These are often treated with a combination of neuromodulators to relax the muscles and filler to smooth the skin. 

Parenthesis Lines (Nasolabial Folds): These are the deep lines that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth. They are typically addressed with dermal fillers to restore lost volume and soften the fold. 

Smile Lines (Marionette Lines): Lines that run from the corners of the mouth down to the chin, often causing a downturned appearance. Fillers can help to lift and smooth these areas. Perfect solutions for smile lines here

Upper Lip Discoloration: Often caused by sun damage, hormonal changes (melasma), or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Treatments may include topical lightening agents, laser therapy, or microneedling in combination with injectables to improve skin tone and texture.

If you’re ready to give the lips the support they need, consider adding SMOOTH UPPER LIP PROFESSIONAL Perioral Anti-Aging Treatment to your routine.

Lasers: More Than Just Facial Rejuvenation

While fillers and neuromodulators address volume loss and dynamic wrinkles, lasers offer a powerful solution for skin texture, tone, and discoloration. Fractional lasers, ablative lasers, and non-ablative options are widely used to resurface the skin, reduce pigmentation, and stimulate collagen production. An emerging trend is the use of lasers on the hands. Hands can often give away one’s age due to sun exposure, thinning skin, and the appearance of prominent veins. Laser treatments, such as intense pulsed light (IPL) and fractional lasers, help target age spots, sun damage, and uneven skin tone on the hands. When combined with fillers to restore volume, these treatments can rejuvenate the hands, creating a more youthful, harmonious appearance that matches the face. Laser treatments typically require minimal downtime, with some redness and peeling lasting a few days. Most people undergo a series of sessions for optimal results, spaced several weeks apart. 

If you’re ready to give your hands the support they need, consider adding TIMELESS Anti-Aging Daily Hand Treatment to your routine.

The Big Picture

People are taking a more holistic approach to aesthetic maintenance—incorporating skincare, nutrition, and less invasive treatments before opting for surgical interventions. The goal is to age gracefully while still feeling confident and vibrant. In the era of the "quiet facelift," the focus is on natural-looking results that enhance rather than alter. Whether addressing fine lines around the mouth, restoring volume to the cheeks, rejuvenating the hands with lasers, or managing facial changes related to GLP-1 weight loss medications, the modern approach to cosmetic procedures is all about subtlety, customization, and empowerment.

Compliment any procedure you may be considering with these targeted solutions from Dermelect.

References

“The Quiet Facelift Boom: What’s Driving It?” 
Women's Wear Daily (WWD) February 15, 2024

“Lasers, Peels, and Fillers: Rejuvenating the Hands”
Allure February 26, 2024

American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS)
Consumer Survey on Cosmetic Dermatologic Procedures, Published: 2023

American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
Annual Report on Plastic Surgery Statistics, Published: 2023

JAMA Dermatology
“Trends in Cosmetic Procedures Across Age Groups, Published: 2023