Deciding to get whitening injections is easy when you are focused on the results you hope to see. However, there are a few questions that are worth asking before your first session that are often overlooked. How much can the treatment realistically change your skin? What exactly will be administered? Who makes the decision on the treatment plan? What do you do before and after a session?
These questions are important as whitening injections are not something you should do just by picking a package and attending first session. When developing a treatment plan, your skin concerns, treatment history, expectations, and overall health should all be taken into account. Understanding what to ask will allow you to make informed decisions and not make unrealistic expectations from the outset.
Read this guide to learn more about whitening injections and questions you must ask before your first session.
What Is the Main Skin Concern I Am Trying to Improve?
Know exactly what you want to change before talking about injections. While some complain of an overall dull appearance, others are worried about the appearance of their skin tone, if it’s not even or there are spots that seem darker than the rest of their skin tone, on their face or body. These concerns can be very similar but can be strongly different in their causes.
Thus, treatment should actually begin with your skin and not the number of whitening injections you have in mind. When you know what your particular concern is, the dermatologist will be able to determine that which whitening injections are right for you and what other skin care treatments can be used in conjunction with the treatment.
What to Expect from Whitening Injections?
A key question to ask is: What type of change is achievable for your skin? Whitening injections should not be viewed as a means of drastically altering your skin tone in one day. This will depend on each individual’s personal response, skin issue, sun exposure, skin care routine, and treatment plan. Discuss the improvement you want to see and how measurements will be taken. Set realistic expectations right from the start, so you can better assess your progress rather than constantly comparing your skin to another before and after picture.
What Will be Covered in My Treatment?
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about what you’re getting. The term “whitening injection” can refer to different treatment approaches, so you should understand what the clinic is administering, how it is being given, and why it has been selected for you. Inquire about treatment formulation, dosage, mode of administration, and whether anything else is going to be incorporated into the treatment. A professional can explain the treatment in detail. Having a clear understanding of what you’re purchasing also makes it simpler to contrast treatment plans between clinics.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
A common mistake is assuming that everyone needs the same number of sessions. Your treatment plan should be customized for your own concerns and skin reaction, and not just because the most expensive package. Some people might experience changes sooner, and others may need to take longer to treat. Inquire about how the dermatologist will track your progress and when they will re-evaluate your results. A successful treatment regimen should allow for variations in treatment frequency based on how your skin reacts, rather than just sticking with the same frequency regardless.
Should I Tell My Dermatologist Before the Session?
Your dermatologist needs more information than simply knowing that you want brighter-looking skin. Prior to treatment, discuss medical conditions, medication, allergies, prior reactions to injectable treatments, and any other treatments or supplements used. You should also mention if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you have recently undergone another cosmetic procedure. This information is useful for the dermatologist to see if treatment is suitable for you and whether anything needs to be adjusted in your treatment plan. Don’t skip important information because you believe it is not relevant to your skin.
What Should I Do Prior to the Session?
Inquire about any special guidelines you should follow before your treatment. Your dermatologist may provide advice on hydration, medication, supplements, skin care products or other treatments depending on your treatment plan. You should also inform them of any recent illness, skin irritation or cosmetic treatment. Remember, these clarifications are better made in advance than to show up for your appointment and learn that your session has to be delayed.