What is the Skinvive "injectable moisturizer" and what does it do?

Skinvive by Juvederm is an injectable dermal filler or gel implant designed for specific facial tissue areas with the aim of creating a smoother complexion and minimizing the visibility of wrinkles, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Skinvive involves the injection of hyaluronic acid in microdroplets beneath the skin's surface, with a focus on enhancing skin hydration rather than replenishing volume. This modified form of hyaluronic acid aids in preserving the skin's innate moisture. The Lovely Clinic explained that this treatment is specifically designed to reduce fine lines while providing hydration to your skin.

Is Skinvive by Juvederm FDA-approved?

Yes, the Skinvive by Juvederm injectable moisturizer is FDA approved. It was approved in May. However, there are other brands of injectable moisturizers available on the market that are not yet approved by the FDA.

Where can it be injected?

Skinvive received FDA approval for use on the sides of the face, which means it can be injected on the cheeks. Skinvive claims that it helps the skin retain its natural moisture and softness and makes it smoother.

How long does it last?

The injectable moisturizer acts like an anti-aging product that can provide long-term glow lasting up to six months. After that, users may receive the injection again.

What are the risks?

As with any medical procedure, injectables like Skinvive are not devoid of risks.

According to the Skinvive website, the most commonly reported side effects of getting the injectable are redness, lumps/bumps, swelling, bruising, pain, tenderness, firmness, discoloration and itching. Most of them will resolve within a week, the website claimed.

Another risk of undergoing the procedure is the accidental injection of dermal filler into a blood vessel. Although there is very little chance of this occurring, if it does happen, there may be serious and possibly permanent complications, including abnormalities in vision, blindness, stroke, transient scabs, and permanent skin scarring.

Any changes in your vision, any unusual pain during or soon after treatment, or any stroke-related symptoms (such as sudden difficulty speaking, numbness or weakness in your face, arms, or legs, difficulty walking, face drooping, severe headache, dizziness, or confusion) should be reported to your physician immediately.

When should it not be used?

Skinvive warned against the use of this product in areas with infections, rashes, hives, pimples, skin sores or cysts as it may impede healing or exacerbate skin conditions.

The FDA also advised against undergoing this procedure for those who have:

• Severe allergies with a history of anaphylactic episode
• A history of severe allergies or their known presence
• A documented allergy or sensitivity to the gram-positive bacterial proteins
• Any recorded lidocaine allergies