- The nature of the product used (hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxin, Sculptra, Skinboosters).
- The anatomical area to be treated.
- The type of correction desired.
- The doctor’s preference, according to their experience and expertise.
Needle injection
The needle is the traditional reference instrument for performing injections. Thin, hollow and rigid, it allows very precise injection into clearly defined areas, with excellent control over depth and the volume administered. The needle is particularly indicated for superficial wrinkles (fine lines around the mouth, crow’s feet), precise anchoring points (a localised depression, a specific asymmetry, a bolus of product at a precise location).
It also allows small quantities of product to be deposited at multiple points or in a line, according to aesthetic needs.
The needle offers the advantage of maximum precision. It is particularly suitable for superficial, localised injections and can be used with all types of products. However, it can be slightly more painful than a cannula, carries a greater risk of bruising if a capillary is hit, and often requires several puncture points.
Cannula injection
What is a cannula ? A cannula is a flexible instrument with a rounded (non-cutting) tip that slides through tissue planes while avoiding vessels and nerves. It does not pass through tissues by piercing them, which considerably reduces the risks of haematomas, bruising and vascular complications.
It is used for the cheekbones, tear troughs, dark circles, forehead, nose and sometimes lips, according to the doctor’s preferences.
The cannula has several advantages : it causes less tissue trauma, is generally less painful, and requires fewer entry points — sometimes just one is enough to treat a large area. It also reduces the risk of intravascular injection. However, it is less suitable for superficial injections and lacks precision for highly targeted corrections. Its use also requires good technical proficiency to achieve an optimal result.
The retrograde threading technique
This is a widely used injection technique, with either a needle or a cannula. The principle is simple : the instrument is inserted to the desired plane, then the product is injected slowly as it is withdrawn. This method deposits the product evenly in a line, making it particularly suitable for treating nasolabial folds, marionette lines, tear troughs or the jawline. It also provides precise control over the volume injected and encourages smooth product integration.
The bolus technique
A bolus involves injecting a defined quantity of product at a fixed point, often deeply (down to the periosteum). This method is used to create volume (cheekbones, chin, temples), increase the projection of a specific facial feature, or mechanically support a sagging skin plane.
A bolus requires careful product selection, generally a highly cross-linked product, and a thorough command of anatomy to avoid overcorrection or asymmetry.
The fanning technique (or «fanning»)
This technique is often performed with a cannula. It involves depositing the product in a fan pattern from a single entry point, making several passes in different directions while gradually injecting.
It is ideal for hollow cheeks, extensive areas, and treating diffuse sagging of the lower face.
The intended effect is comprehensive : a subtle, natural result distributed harmoniously.
«Micro-bolus» injections
The micro-bolus is a variation of the bolus, suited to highly mobile areas or where the skin is thin. It involves depositing very small quantities of product at regular intervals, often in the superficial dermis.
Used for lines around the mouth (barcode lines), cheek wrinkles, the eyebrow tail (a subtle lift), or during Skinbooster injections to hydrate without changing volume.
This technique requires considerable precision and a very fluid product to avoid irregularities.
The « blanching » technique
« Blanching » (or whitening) is a technique that involves injecting the product very superficially, almost intradermally, until the skin becomes slightly white. This phenomenon reflects tension in the dermis, which gradually smooths over the following days.
This method is particularly indicated for fine lines, especially around the mouth and eyes, as well as thin, crepey skin or certain dynamic wrinkles that have become static. However, it is not always feasible because it carries a risk of the Tyndall effect, meaning a bluish reflection appearing beneath the skin.
Superficial injection techniques for mesotherapy and Skinboosters
Although they are not intended to restore volume, Skinbooster or mesotherapy cocktail injections require a particular technique : superficial nappage or micro-papules. The doctor performs a series of superficial micro-injections, creating a fine grid across the treatment area.
This method is used on the face to restore radiance and hydration, on the neck and décolletage to address thin, sagging skin, and on the backs of the hands to stimulate skin regeneration. It is well tolerated and primarily aims to improve tissue quality without changing volume.
The importance of the injection plane : superficial, middle or deep ?
An essential classification of techniques is based on the plane in which the product is injected. This parameter influences the aesthetic result, treatment longevity, and safety.
- Superficial intradermal injection : used for Skinboosters, mesotherapy, or blanching. This technique improves skin quality without adding volume.
- Mid-dermal injection : suitable for treating moderate wrinkles, it provides a harmonious, subtle result through the use of a fluid gel.
- Subcutaneous injection : recommended for volume, pronounced folds, or depressions. The hyaluronic acid is denser, to provide a lifting effect.
- Periosteal injection : performed deeply, in contact with the bone. Used for the cheekbones, chin or angle of the jaw. The product must be cohesive and resilient.
An experienced doctor will choose the correct plane according to the area and indication, thereby avoiding side effects such as the Tyndall effect, product migration, or an artificial result.
Combined techniques
During the same session, the doctor may alternate between several injection techniques according to the areas treated and products used. This is called a combined strategy or full face approach. For example, using a cannula with retrograde threading for the cheekbones, placing small needle boluses for non-surgical lifting techniques, injecting superficial micro-boluses to correct lines around the mouth, and finishing with superficial mesotherapy injections for skin quality.
This tailored approach requires a thorough command of each technique and the ability to anticipate interactions between the different injection planes. It provides a more harmonious and lasting result than an isolated injection.
Botulinum toxin : techniques specific to neuromodulation
Botulinum toxin injection is based on an entirely different principle : inhibiting contraction of the muscles responsible for expression lines. The technique involves precisely identifying the muscles concerned, injecting very small volumes at several specific points, and adapting the dose to muscle strength and the objective (eliminating the wrinkle, balance, prevention).
The procedure is precise, quick and virtually painless.
