Tag: dermal fillers

  • Wrinkle Fillers: Everything You Need to Know

    Wrinkle Fillers: Everything You Need to Know

    Wrinkle Fillers: Everything You Need to Know

    Wrinkle treatment with neuromodulator and hyaluronic acid injections on the face

    Here is a simple and comprehensive guide to better understand these anti-aging solutions.

    What Does “Filling Wrinkles” Mean?

    Over time, repeated facial muscle movements combined with the gradual loss of skin elasticity lead to the formation of wrinkles.

    Commonly observed areas include:

    • Forehead lines
    • Frown lines (between the eyebrows)
    • Crow’s feet
    • Lines around the mouth and nose
    • Neck lines
    • Nose lines (bunny lines)

    Depending on their cause — expression-related or volume loss — two types of injections are used to reduce their appearance: neuromodulator injections and hyaluronic acid injections.

    1. Neuromodulator Injections: Smoothing Expression Lines

    Neuromodulator injections are primarily used in the upper part of the face. They work by relaxing the muscles responsible for expression lines.

    Key facts:

    • Quick treatment: approximately 15 minutes
    • No downtime: you can resume activities immediately
    • Natural results: a relaxed, not frozen appearance
    • Duration of effects: 3 to 6 months
    • Targets: forehead lines, frown lines, crow’s feet, nose lines

    These injections do not stop aging but help slow the formation of new wrinkles while softening existing ones.

    2. Hyaluronic Acid Injections (Dermal Fillers): Restoring Volume and Smoothing Wrinkles

    Hyaluronic acid is a molecule naturally present in the skin. With age, its levels decrease, leading to sagging and volume loss.

    What do fillers help correct?

    They can:

    • Fill wrinkles caused by skin laxity
    • Redefine cheekbones
    • Restore cheek volume
    • Enhance lip contours
    • Sculpt the jawline
    • Refine nose shape (non-surgical rhinoplasty)
    • Brighten the under-eye area

    Products used, including Juvéderm, are biocompatible and may contain lidocaine to improve comfort.

    Effects:

    • Immediate results
    • Natural, soft, harmonious appearance
    • Duration: up to 18 months (depending on area and product)

    Post-Treatment Precautions

    After neuromodulator injections:

    • Mild redness or small bumps may occur and typically resolve within hours
    • Immediate return to activities
    • Avoid rubbing treated areas for the first few hours

    After hyaluronic acid injections:

    • Possible localized redness: avoid sun and UV exposure
    • Apply ice if needed
    • Avoid intense exercise, heat, and alcohol on the same day

    Before any treatment, your healthcare professional will assess contraindications and provide personalized recommendations.

    Which Treatment Should You Choose?

    Every face is unique. A physician can recommend the most appropriate solution based on:

    • Type of wrinkles
    • Facial structure
    • Areas requiring volume correction
    • Desired results
    • Preferred longevity

    The goal: Natural, harmonious results that respect your beauty.

    Book an appointment for a personalized assessment and discover the options tailored to your face.

  • 4 Tips for Aging Gracefully According to Dr. Mai Ho

    4 Tips for Aging Gracefully According to Dr. Mai Ho

    4 Tips for Aging Gracefully According to Dr. Mai Ho

    Dr. Mai Ho, aesthetic medicine physician at Epiderma, smiling in her clinic.

    A Glimpse Into Dr. Mai Ho’s World

    A graduate of the Faculty of Medicine at the Université de Montréal, Dr. Mai Ho initially worked as an emergency physician for 15 years before transitioning into family medicine and later aesthetic medicine.

    “While working at Epiderma, I discovered a deep passion for aesthetic medicine. Having drawn since childhood and being passionate about art, aesthetic medicine allows me to combine my love for medicine, techniques, art, and sculpture.”

    This fusion of medical rigor, attentive listening, and artistic sensibility lies at the heart of her practice.

    A Human, Artistic, and Meticulous Approach

    Many patients place their trust in Dr. Mai Ho because of her delicacy, meticulous attention, and ability to achieve natural-looking outcomes.

    “I believe patients appreciate my work because they know I dedicate my full time and attention to them. I help address their insecurities while delivering the natural results they seek.”

    Guided by a holistic vision, she views the face as a whole and ensures that every treatment preserves the harmony of facial features.

    “Even in family medicine, I am known for taking ample time and providing thorough explanations. Choosing medico-aesthetic treatments often requires courage for many patients. It is therefore my duty to reassure them and explain every aspect of the procedure.”

    What to Expect During a Treatment With Dr. Mai Ho

    A typical treatment generally unfolds in three phases:

    “From the first phase, my patients recognize my sincere desire to help them address certain insecurities while enhancing their natural beauty. I provide honest and thoughtful recommendations.

    During the procedure, patients notice my strong attention to detail and the precision with which treatments are performed. I first design a detailed plan, carefully explaining each step, then administer the treatment while minimizing discomfort.

    Finally, when revealing the results, patients see that their objectives have been achieved with natural, harmonious outcomes and typically very few side effects.”

    Experienced injector with expertise in advanced injection techniques, including microcannula methods and modern aesthetic protocols.

    4 Tips for Aging Gracefully According to Dr. Mai Ho

    1 — Avoid Smoking

    Smoking accelerates skin aging by breaking down collagen and weakening tissue structure. To maintain healthy skin, Dr. Mai Ho strongly recommends avoiding smoking.

    2 — Maintain Physical and Mental Fitness

    She favors Pilates, which combines strength, flexibility, and focus while promoting overall well-being of both body and mind.

    3 — Wear Sunscreen

    UVA rays are present year-round and contribute significantly to premature skin aging. Dr. Mai Ho recommends wearing sunscreen 365 days a year.

    4 — Support Your Face in Combating the Effects of Time

    Since the age of 38, Dr. Mai Ho has adopted a preventive approach:

    “Since the age of 38, I receive neuromodulator treatments every four months and dermal filler treatments once a year to help prevent facial sagging.”

    This gradual strategy helps preserve facial harmony and structure over time.

    Conclusion

    According to Dr. Mai Ho, aging gracefully relies on:

    • Adopting healthy lifestyle habits
    • Daily sun protection
    • Maintaining physical and mental well-being
    • A preventive approach in aesthetic medicine

    For natural, harmonious, and personalized results:

    Book an appointment with Dr. Mai Ho

  • Understanding Injectable Treatments with the Network’s Medical Director

    Understanding Injectable Treatments with the Network’s Medical Director

    Understanding Injectable Treatments with the Network’s Medical Director

    Injecting physician discussing an injection treatment with a patient during a consultation.

    Neuromodulators vs. Dermal Fillers: What’s the Difference?

    Neuromodulators

    Neuromodulators (Botulinum toxin) temporarily block the nerve signals responsible for muscle contractions.
    They help relax the muscles and reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles, such as:

    • forehead lines
    • crow’s feet
    • frown lines (glabella)

    Dermal Fillers

    Dermal fillers — most commonly made of hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the body — add volume to:

    • fill wrinkles and hollows
    • enhance certain facial areas
    • restore lost volume
    • improve skin texture and hydration

    In Summary

    • Neuromodulators → relax muscles and reduce expression-related wrinkles.
    • Dermal fillers → restore volume, correct static wrinkles, and enhance facial contours.

    How Long Do Results Last?

    • Neuromodulators: approximately 3 to 4 months
    • Dermal fillers: 1 to 2 years, depending on the product used and the treated area

    What Are the Possible Side Effects?

    Dermal Fillers

    • redness
    • swelling
    • bruising
    • temporary sensitivity or itching

    Neuromodulators

    • bruising or redness at the injection site
    • mild muscle weakness or heaviness
    • occasional headaches

    These effects are generally temporary and resolve on their own.

    Will People Be Able to Tell I’ve Had Injections?

    A natural-looking result depends mainly on:

    • the initial assessment,
    • injection technique,
    • and the physician’s experience.

    At Epiderma, injections are performed exclusively by physicians, in a safe medical environment, to ensure subtle, harmonious results tailored to your facial anatomy.

    Why Does the “Duck Face” Sometimes Occur After Lip Injections?

    The “duck face” is an undesired effect that occurs when too much product is injected or when it is improperly placed.
    In the hands of an experienced professional, this outcome should not occur.

    Can Results Be Reversed If I’m Not Satisfied?

    In cases of complications or undesirable effects, hyaluronidase — an enzyme that dissolves hyaluronic acid — can be used.
    However, it is reserved for medical necessity and not for minor aesthetic adjustments.

    What Is the Role of Medical Oversight at Epiderma?

    Medical direction ensures:

    • consistent practices across clinics
    • ongoing physician training
    • continuous clinical support
    • optimal patient safety

    All injectable treatments are performed by physicians.

    Is It Possible to Have the Consultation and Treatment on the Same Day?

    Yes. You may choose to:

    • meet with a physician for an assessment only, or
    • proceed with both the consultation and treatment on the same day, depending on your decision.

    *Article written in collaboration with Dr Alexis Du Cap.

  • Thread Lift Treatment: The Non-Surgical Alternative for a Lifting Effect

    Thread Lift Treatment: The Non-Surgical Alternative for a Lifting Effect

    Thread Lift Treatment: The Non-Surgical Alternative for a Lifting Effect

    Dr. Mai Ho presents thread lift treatment and her medical approach for a natural lifting effect.

    What Is a Thread Lift Treatment?

    (M.H.) – Thread lifts use absorbable threads equipped with small cones that are inserted beneath the skin to reposition sagging tissues. This technique is primarily used to treat areas of the face such as the cheeks, marionette lines, and jowls.

    The lifting effect is immediate, with continued improvement over the six months following the treatment. According to manufacturers, results may last up to one year, and in some cases, even longer.

    Who Is This Treatment Recommended For?

    (M.H.) – Thread lift treatments are generally recommended for individuals between the ages of 35 and 60 who have skin that is neither too thin nor too thick and who are experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity.

    This treatment is ideal for patients who wish to avoid surgical facelifts but are seeking a more noticeable lifting effect than what dermal fillers alone can provide.

    Dr. Mai Ho also recommends this approach for patients who have previously had filler treatments and would like additional lifting without undergoing surgery. This method can provide approximately up to 1 cm of lift, allowing for visible yet realistic results.

    How Does the Treatment Work?

    (M.H.) – The procedure typically lasts between one and two hours. For a full-face treatment, approximately six to ten threads are inserted (both sides combined).

    The threads are placed beneath the skin using an aseptic technique and local anesthesia to minimize discomfort at the entry and exit points.

    Dr. Mai Ho presenting thread lift treatment and her medical approach for achieving a natural, subtle lift.

    Is the Treatment Painful? Do the Threads Remain Under the Skin?

    (M.H.) – Although the treatment is semi-invasive and slightly more involved than filler injections, it is generally well tolerated.

    Local anesthesia is used, but the procedure may feel more sensitive than traditional injections, making it less suitable for highly anxious individuals.

    Following treatment, patients may experience mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising, which typically resolves within a few days. The threads remain beneath the skin and are gradually absorbed over approximately six months.

    Why Did You Choose to Offer This Treatment?

    (M.H.) – Thread lifts have been used for over 20 years, with varying levels of popularity. In the past decade, however, the technique has experienced significant renewed interest, particularly in Europe and Asia.

    Dr. Mai Ho considers thread lifts a valuable therapeutic option for patients seeking a lifting effect without surgery.

    Contraindications

    As with any medical procedure, thread lift treatments have certain contraindications, including:

    • Severe systemic diseases
    • Autoimmune conditions
    • Local or systemic infections
    • Use of anticoagulant medications
    • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
    • Predisposition to keloids or hypertrophic scars
    • Previous permanent fillers
    • Facial or scalp eczema or psoriasis
    • Allergy to lidocaine, epinephrine, or thread components

    Thread lift treatments represent an excellent non-surgical solution for individuals seeking a natural-looking lift and immediate results without surgery. Thanks to Dr. Mai Ho’s expertise, this treatment is now available at Epiderma Saint-Hyacinthe, offering patients an additional option to restore firmness and facial definition.

    MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

  • 4 Beauty Resolutions to Add to Your Routine in 2026

    4 Beauty Resolutions to Add to Your Routine in 2026

    4 Beauty Resolutions to Add to Your Routine in 2026

    Woman applying a facial treatment as part of a minimalist beauty routine recommended by a medical aesthetic clinic.

    Here are 4 simple and proven beauty resolutions to incorporate into your daily routine for glowing skin, winter and summer alike.

    1 — Apply Sunscreen Every Day

    Today, sun protection is considered the most important anti-aging step. UVA rays are present year-round, even on cloudy days, and are responsible for premature skin aging: wrinkles, fine lines, pigmentation spots, and loss of radiance.

    To protect the health and youthfulness of your skin:

    • Choose an SPF 30 or higher, based on your needs.
    • Opt for a formula suited to your skin type: mineral, tinted, or fluid.
    • Apply it every morning, even in winter and even in the city.
    • Be extra vigilant if you are receiving in-clinic treatments (laser hair removal, microneedling, microdermabrasion, etc.).

    Daily sunscreen use is one of the beauty habits that delivers the best long-term results.

    2 — Make Time for Yourself

    Stress, lack of sleep, and a fast-paced lifestyle can affect the appearance of your skin. In 2026, self-care and treatments that help the body recover are more valued than ever.

    Some simple ideas:

    • Take a warm bath followed by a nourishing body cream.
    • Apply a hydrating or soothing mask in the evening.
    • Enjoy a professional facial treatment in clinic (facial, peelBela MD, etc.).
    • Adopt a minimalist routine: cleanse, hydrate, protect.

    These moments of self-care help reduce stress, improve skin hydration, and promote a brighter complexion.

    3 — Choose Skin Care Tailored to Your Needs… with a Professional Assessment

    Every skin type is unique: sensitive, acne-prone, combination, dry, mature…

    To achieve visible results, it’s essential to choose treatments that are truly adapted to your skin’s needs.

    In clinic, a free personalized skin assessment allows our medical-aesthetic technicians to evaluate:

    • Your skin type
    • Your concerns (wrinkles, pigmentation, redness, loss of firmness, texture, pores, etc.)
    • Your current routine
    • Your goals

    Based on this assessment, they can recommend appropriate facial treatments and medical-aesthetic solutions such as photorejuvenation, skinboosters, neuromodulator injections, or dermal fillers.

    The goal is simple: to build a routine and treatment plan that respect your skin, your budget, and your lifestyle.

    4 — Simplify Your Routine

    The 2026 trend: skinimalism, or the art of using fewer products that are better chosen.

    Simple habits to adopt:

    • Replace disposable wipes with gentle cleansers applied by hand.
    • Choose multi-functional products (e.g., antioxidant, brightening, and anti-aging serums such as SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic or Vivier Radiance Serum).
    • Finish your products before purchasing new ones.

    A simplified routine is often more effective, more consistent, and gentler on the skin.

    Conclusion: Your Skin Deserves Personalized Support

    Adopting new beauty resolutions also means giving yourself the support of passionate professionals. Our medical-aesthetic technicians are here to guide you and help you create a routine that reflects who you are — simple, effective, and tailored to your goals.

    Because beautiful skin starts with the right choices, supported by professionals.

    Book a free in-clinic consultation.

  • Lip Treatment: A Complete Guide to Dermal Fillers

    Lip Treatment: A Complete Guide to Dermal Fillers

    Lip Treatment: A Complete Guide to Dermal Fillers

    Woman examining her lips to learn more about injections and dermal fillers.

    1. Which filler is recommended for lip augmentation?

    The most commonly used dermal fillers are those made with hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally present in the body. Some products are designed to add more volume, while others help redefine the lip contour and soften fine lines, while maintaining a natural and harmonious result.

    2. What’s the difference between dermal fillers and neuromodulators?

    Unlike fillers, which add volume, neuromodulators works by relaxing the muscles to smooth wrinkles. It cannot be used to enhance lip volume, but it can help reduce the appearance of fine lines around the mouth.

    3. What are the different injection techniques?

    Lip augmentation can be performed using two main techniques:

    • Needle injections: Ideal for precise application, particularly for defining the lip contour.
    • Cannula injections: Allow for a more even distribution of the product and help reduce the risk of bruising.

    The choice of technique depends on the patient’s anatomy and the desired outcome.

    4. What questions should you ask your doctor before getting lip fillers?

    Before proceeding, be sure to ask your doctor:

    • What type of filler will be used?
    • What are the possible side effects?
    • What injection technique will be used?
    • How long will the results last?

    Choosing an experienced practitioner ensures a safer treatment and more natural-looking results.

    5. Can lip injections cause bruising?

    Yes, since the lips are highly vascularized, bruising can occur after injections. To minimize this risk, avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, alcohol, and cannabis before the procedure. A skilled practitioner will adjust their technique to reduce the chances of bruising.

    6. How long does swelling last after lip injections?

    The initial swelling typically subsides within 24 to 48 hours, although mild inflammation may last a few days. After two weeks, the final result will be visible.

    7. How often should lip fillers be maintained?

    The results of lip augmentation typically last between 5 and 12 months, depending on the patient’s metabolism. A touch-up can be done after this period to prolong the effects. If you want additional volume, a second injection can be performed one month after the initial session.

    8. Will my lips sag if I stop getting injections?

    No. Once the hyaluronic acid is fully absorbed by the body, your lips will gradually return to their natural appearance. The hydration provided by the filler may even persist for a while after the product has been metabolized.

    9. Do I need an allergy test before the treatment?

    Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers generally do not require an allergy test. However, your physician will review your medical history to determine whether any specific precautions should be considered.

    In short…

    Lip augmentation is a safe and effective treatment when performed by a qualified professional. Before moving forward, gather information on your options, ask your doctor all necessary questions, and choose a reputable clinic.

    At Epiderma, a medical consultation is mandatory before any treatment to ensure safe and personalized care.

    Looking to enhance your lips while maintaining a natural, harmonious result?

    Book an appointment for a medical consultation with our team.

  • Dr. Catherine Nappert: Where Science Meets Sensitivity — A Human-Centered Vision of Aesthetic Medicine

    Dr. Catherine Nappert: Where Science Meets Sensitivity — A Human-Centered Vision of Aesthetic Medicine

    Dr. Catherine Nappert: Where Science Meets Sensitivity — A Human-Centered Vision of Aesthetic Medicine

    Dr. Catherine Nappert, physician specializing in aesthetic medicine at the Epiderma Drummondville clinic.

    Passionate about aesthetics in all its forms and guided by a deeply human approach, she shares her vision of a respectful aesthetic medicine where art, science, and attentive listening come together to reveal each patient’s authentic beauty.

    Can You Tell Us About Your Medical Background and What Led You to Aesthetic Medicine? 

    Practices aimed at enhancing or modifying the face date back to ancient times. Regardless of differing opinions, aesthetics remain an undeniable part of our modern societies.

    Personally, I have always been fascinated by aesthetics in all its forms, as it expresses both creativity and individuality.

    During my medical training at the Université de Montréal, I found myself torn between plastic surgery and ENT. I ultimately chose ENT for its strong focus on facial and neck anatomy, the compelling balance between medical and surgical practice, the diversity of patients, and the wide technical scope of endoscopic and microscopic procedures.

    After 27 years of hospital-based ENT practice and 15 years in aesthetic medicine, I reached a professional turning point that motivated me to join the Epiderma/Medicart network and devote myself exclusively to aesthetic medicine in Drummondville.

    Aesthetic medicine beautifully combines art and science to help patients feel more confident. And confidence enhances beauty.

    What Is Your Vision of Beauty and Well-Being in Aesthetic Medicine? 

    Beauty is plural and deeply subjective. My goal is to enhance each patient’s facial harmony so that their outer appearance faithfully reflects their inner beauty — the best version of themselves.

    Restoring a radiant complexion or balancing facial proportions may seem subtle, yet for many individuals, these changes foster greater self-confidence and a renewed sense of harmony with their reflection.

    How Do You Guide Patients Through Their Aesthetic Journey? 

    A successful aesthetic treatment begins with trust. Providing attentive, judgment-free listening is essential.

    I help patients articulate realistic expectations by clearly explaining what can and cannot be achieved. Understanding their deeper motivations allows me to assess whether their request is coherent and appropriate.

    For example, I may recommend addressing overall facial balance through a soft global lift using injectables before targeting finer lines around the mouth. This reflects my philosophy of step-by-step facial rejuvenation — always tailored to the patient’s desired level of investment.

    I may also suggest lesser-known yet highly effective techniques, such as the lifting effect of temporal volume restoration or chin refinement to complement marionette line treatment.

    The objective is never transformation, but harmonization — enhancing what already exists while preserving each patient’s individuality.

    My role extends beyond the technical procedure. Evaluating satisfaction and, at times, providing emotional support are integral parts of quality patient care.

    In Your Opinion, What Defines a Successful Aesthetic Treatment? 

    Every face, every skin type, every expression is unique. 

    A successful treatment relies on precise, safe, and personalized techniques, combined with accurate dosing to achieve natural, harmonious results. 

    Each technology has its strengths and limitations. Often, it is a series of subtle refinements that produces the most gratifying outcomes. 

    Personally, I appreciate when patients return saying they were told they look “well-rested” rather than that their “face looks different.” 

    A well-executed treatment should not be obvious — it should simply create a refreshed, balanced appearance aligned with the patient’s natural features. 

    What Advice Would You Give Someone Considering Their First Aesthetic Treatment? 

    Artificial intelligence increasingly fuels unrealistic standards of perfection, making it easy to feel overwhelmed by aesthetic marketing claims.

    The decision to pursue treatment should always be made for oneself — not to seek external validation.

    For first-time patients, choosing a medico-aesthetic clinic with genuine medical oversight is crucial. A physician evaluates skin quality, facial structure, medical history, and underlying expectations to determine the most appropriate approach.

    This medical perspective ensures safety, prevents excess, and guarantees a rigorous understanding of anatomy, as well as the expertise to manage potential complications.

    Selecting a qualified practitioner committed to both evaluation and follow-up is ultimately a choice for professionalism, transparency, and self-respect.

    Dr. Catherine Nappert’s approach, grounded in harmony, trust, and respect for individuality, fully reflects the values of the Epiderma network. Whether you are considering your first treatment or refining your skincare journey, meet Dr. Nappert at Epiderma Drummondville for personalized, safe, and compassionate care.

    Book an appointment with Dr. Catherine Nappert