Cosmetic injectables is one of those categories where innovation is arguably lacking. By and large, it’s often new variations on the same theme: hyaluronic acid fillers, biostimulatory fillers, and neuromodulators. So when we hear about something that doesn’t fall into one of these categories, we take note.
So while it’s worth knowing about these trending injectables, they’re probably not taking the place of Botox or filler anytime soon. Here, more on three alternative injectables that are creating buzz.
Salmon sperm injections
You may have heard about salmon sperm injections from Kim Kardashian, who recently revealed that they were a part of her latest facial. (It was only a matter of time before she found a treatment that would outweird the Vampire Facial she put on the map years ago.)
EZ Gel
According to Dr. Jason Champagne, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, California, while it’s not yet super widespread, practitioners are beginning to explore this as a natural alternative to synthetic fillers. “Given that it uses an autologous material, the patient’s own blood, EZ Gel has a more promising path toward FDA approval, especially if it can consistently demonstrate safety and efficacy in clinical trials,” he says.
Patient reviews, at least on Reddit, are also a bit mixed. The overarching sentiment? Results are subtle, and multiple treatments are needed in order to achieve any kind of meaningful effect, which also doesn’t last very long. And many people also lament the ability to have EZ Gel dissolved in the event of a vascular occlusion or less-than-favorable end result.
Wharton’s jelly
But there’s also an underground scene where Wharton’s jelly injections are being used for aesthetic reasons—in Los Angeles, in particular. “Although I haven’t used it personally, some colleagues in the field are investigating its potential as an aesthetic treatment,” says Dr. Champagne. He declined to comment as to exactly how popular it is but did call out that it’s definitely gaining attention in the field. “The high content of growth factors and stem cells offers significant potential for skin rejuvenation, improving elasticity, and reducing signs of aging,” he explains.
Dr. Champagne agrees that the source of the material adds complexity to the process though adds that Wharton’s Jelly’s potential as a regenerative treatment may drive further research and, ultimately, future approval.
Bottom line
At the end of the day, even if these three injectables don’t gain approval, there may be other injectables hitting the market soon. Will all of this new innovation ultimately render Botox and fillers as we know them extinct? Probably not, but we will get a host of new products that allow providers to do their jobs more effectively.
