Injectables Explained: What Natural Results Really Look Like

One of the biggest misconceptions about cosmetic injectables is that everyone will know you’ve had them.

The reality is quite the opposite.

When injectables are performed thoughtfully and conservatively, the goal isn’t to change how you look—it’s to help you look refreshed, rested, and naturally confident.

At Barris Laser & Skincare in Boulder, we believe the best injectable treatments enhance your natural features while preserving your expressions and individuality.


What Are Injectables?

Injectables generally fall into two categories:

Neuromodulators (Dysport)

Dysport works by temporarily relaxing specific facial muscles that create expression lines.

It is commonly used to soften:

  • Frown lines (“11s”)
  • Forehead lines
  • Crow’s feet

Dysport doesn’t fill wrinkles—it helps prevent repetitive muscle movement from deepening lines over time.


Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers restore volume, improve facial balance, and soften deeper folds.

At Barris Laser & Skincare, we offer:

  • Belotero® – ideal for fine lines and delicate areas
  • Restylane® – versatile for cheeks, smile lines, and facial contouring
  • Restylane Lyft® – designed for lifting and restoring facial volume
  • Restylane Kysse® – created specifically for natural-looking lip enhancement and improved lip texture

Rather than making features look larger, fillers can restore volume that naturally decreases with age.


Will I Look Frozen?

This is one of the questions we hear most often.

The answer is no—when treatment is customized appropriately.

Natural-looking injectables allow you to:

  • Smile naturally
  • Raise your eyebrows
  • Express emotion
  • Look like yourself

The goal is subtle improvement—not dramatic change.

Many people notice that friends comment they look well-rested without realizing they’ve had treatment.


How Many Units of Dysport Do Most People Need?

The number of Dysport units varies from person to person.

Your provider considers:

  • Muscle strength
  • Facial anatomy
  • Treatment goals
  • Previous treatments
  • Desired level of movement

Here are typical treatment ranges:

Area Typical Dysport Units*
Frown Lines (11s) 40-60 units
Forehead 10-30 units
Crows Feet 20-40 units
Full upper face 60-100+ units

*These are general guidelines. Every treatment is customized based on your individual anatomy and goals.

Someone seeking very subtle movement may require a different approach than someone treating stronger facial muscles.


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

Many people assume they’re interchangeable—but they treat different concerns.

Dysport helps with:

  • Dynamic wrinkles caused by facial movement
  • Prevention of deeper expression lines
  • Smoother skin while maintaining natural expression

Fillers help with:

  • Volume loss
  • Facial contour
  • Lip enhancement
  • Softening folds and creases
  • Restoring youthful proportions

Many patients benefit from a combination of both treatments because they address different aspects of facial aging.


What Does “Natural” Really Mean?

Natural results don’t mean no one notices.

They mean people notice you, not your treatment.

At Barris Laser & Skincare, natural-looking results are achieved through:

  • Conservative treatment planning
  • Respecting your facial anatomy
  • Maintaining balance and proportion
  • Gradual improvements over time
  • Listening carefully to your goals

Sometimes less truly is more.


How Long Do Results Last?

Although every patient is different, most people experience:

Dysport

Approximately 3–4 months

Belotero & Restylane Fillers

Generally 6–18 months, depending on the product, treatment area, and individual metabolism.

Maintenance treatments help preserve consistent, natural-looking results over time.


Are Injectables Right for Me?

A consultation is the best place to start.

During your visit, we’ll evaluate:

  • Your facial anatomy
  • Your concerns
  • Your goals
  • Your lifestyle

From there, we’ll recommend whether Dysport, dermal fillers, skincare, or a combination of treatments is the best fit.

Every treatment plan is personalized because every face is unique.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Dysport and Botox?

Both are FDA-approved neuromodulators that relax targeted muscles to soften expression lines. They have different formulations, dosing, and diffusion characteristics, but both can produce natural-looking results when used appropriately.

How many units of Dysport do I need?

It depends on the treatment area, muscle strength, and your goals. Many patients treating the upper face receive somewhere between <>60 and 100 units, but your provider will determine the right amount during your consultation.

Will people know I had filler?

Not when treatment is done conservatively. The goal is refreshed, balanced features—not an overfilled appearance.

Which filler is best for lips?

Restylane Kysse is specifically designed for natural-looking lip enhancement while maintaining softness and movement.

Is Dysport better than filler?

Neither is “better”—they simply treat different concerns. Dysport relaxes muscles that create expression lines, while fillers restore volume and contour.


Natural Results Start with a Personalized Plan

Injectables aren’t about looking different—they’re about helping you look like the best version of yourself.

At Barris Laser & Skincare in Boulder, every treatment begins with a conversation about your goals, facial anatomy, and comfort level. Whether you’re considering Dysport for the first time or exploring dermal fillers, our approach is always centered on subtle, natural-looking results that complement your unique features.

If you’re curious about injectables, schedule a consultation to learn which treatment—or combination of treatments—is right for you.