Plain-language definitions of common aesthetic treatment terms — from AHA to Xeomin. Use this guide to decode clinic menus and ask better questions at your consultation.
Water-soluble acids derived from fruit sugars (glycolic, lactic, mandelic, citric) that exfoliate the outermost skin layer by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells. Used in chemical peels and skincare products. Improve brightness, texture, and mild hyperpigmentation. Higher concentrations require clinical application.
See also: BHA, Chemical peel, Glycolic acid
A 755nm wavelength laser widely used for laser hair removal and pigmentation treatment. Highly effective on Fitzpatrick skin types I–III (lighter skin tones) due to strong melanin absorption. Not appropriate for darker skin tones — the high absorption rate increases burn risk.
See also: Nd:YAG laser, Diode laser, Laser hair removal
The manufacturer of Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA), Juvéderm fillers, and CoolSculpting. Allergan (now part of AbbVie) sets the clinical training standards and product specifications for these brand-name treatments. Authentic Allergan CoolSculpting devices are important for avoiding paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH).
See also: Botox, Juvéderm, CoolSculpting
Hair loss. In aesthetic medicine, androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss driven by hormonal sensitivity) is the most common type treated with PRP therapy, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), and topical or oral medications. PRP has strong clinical evidence for androgenetic alopecia in early-to-moderate stages.
See also: PRP therapy, Androgenetic alopecia
Pattern hair loss driven by sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone. Affects both men and women but presents differently (receding hairline vs. diffuse thinning). Treated with PRP injections, minoxidil, finasteride/dutasteride, and low-level laser therapy.
See also: Alopecia, PRP therapy
The active growth phase of the hair cycle. Laser hair removal can only damage follicles that are in the anagen phase — at any given time, approximately 20–30% of hairs in an area are in anagen. This is why multiple laser sessions (spaced weeks apart) are required for effective treatment.
See also: Laser hair removal, Telogen
Oil-soluble acids (primarily salicylic acid) that penetrate into pores to exfoliate from within. More effective than AHAs for acne-prone skin, congestion, and blackheads. Used in chemical peels and topical products. Safe for most skin types; salicylic acid is not recommended during pregnancy.
See also: AHA, Salicylic acid, Chemical peel
Injectable treatments that stimulate the body's own collagen production rather than adding volume directly. Primary examples: Sculptra (poly-L-lactic acid) and Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite). Results build gradually over 3–6 months and last longer than HA fillers (2+ years for Sculptra). Requires patience — not appropriate for patients wanting immediate correction.
See also: Sculptra, Radiesse, Dermal filler, Collagen induction
Brand name for onabotulinumtoxinA (Allergan/AbbVie). A purified form of botulinum toxin type A that temporarily relaxes muscles by blocking acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction. Used for dynamic wrinkles (forehead, crow's feet, frown lines), brow lifting, jaw slimming, lip flip, hyperhidrosis, and other applications. Effects last 3–4 months on average.
See also: Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, Neuromodulator
A neurotoxic protein produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. In pharmaceutical-grade purified form, it temporarily blocks nerve signals to targeted muscles. Brands include Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA), Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA), Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA), and Jeuveau (prabotulinumtoxinA). All are botulinum toxin type A.
See also: Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Neuromodulator
The active ingredient in Radiesse, a dermal filler. CaHA microspheres suspended in a gel carrier add immediate volume, then stimulate collagen production as the carrier is absorbed and the microspheres degrade. Thicker and longer-lasting than HA fillers (12–18+ months). Not reversible with hyaluronidase.
See also: Radiesse, Dermal filler, Hyaluronic acid filler
A blunt-tipped, flexible tube used for filler injection as an alternative to a sharp needle. Cannulas reduce bruising and vascular occlusion risk by spreading tissue rather than piercing through it. Preferred by many experienced injectors for certain areas (cheeks, lips, tear trough). Requires larger entry points than needles.
See also: Dermal filler, Vascular occlusion
A treatment that applies an acid solution (glycolic, salicylic, TCA, Jessner's, or phenol) to remove skin layers and stimulate renewal. Depth and downtime scale together: superficial peels (no downtime, mild brightening), medium peels (5–10 days, significant texture improvement), deep peels (2–3 weeks, dramatic resurfacing). Appropriate peel depth depends on skin type, tone, and concern.
See also: AHA, BHA, TCA peel, Glycolic acid, Salicylic acid
Brand name for cryolipolysis by Allergan. A non-invasive fat reduction treatment that freezes fat cells at temperatures that destroy them without damaging surrounding tissue. Each treatment cycle reduces fat in the treated area by approximately 20–25%. Results are permanent in treated areas. Not a weight loss treatment — most effective on pinchable, localized fat deposits in patients near their target weight.
See also: Cryolipolysis, Body contouring, EmSculpt
A fat-reduction technology that uses controlled cooling to destroy fat cells without damaging skin or surrounding tissue. Fat cells are more sensitive to cold than other cells — cooling to approximately -9°C triggers apoptosis (cell death). The body eliminates the destroyed cells over 8–12 weeks. CoolSculpting is the FDA-cleared brand-name device.
See also: CoolSculpting, Body contouring
A manual exfoliation technique using a sterile surgical blade held at a 45-degree angle to scrape dead skin cells and vellus hair (peach fuzz) from the surface. No downtime, no chemicals. Results: smoother texture, improved product absorption, and a temporary brightening effect. Safe for most skin types. Performed by licensed estheticians or clinicians.
See also: Vellus hair, Exfoliation
Injectable substances that add volume, smooth wrinkles, and reshape facial contours. Most common: hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers (Juvéderm, Restylane, RHA — reversible with hyaluronidase). Others include calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse — not reversible), poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra — biostimulator), and PMMA (Bellafill — semi-permanent). Duration: 6–24+ months depending on product and area.
See also: Hyaluronic acid filler, Radiesse, Sculptra, Hyaluronidase
An 810nm wavelength laser used for laser hair removal. Effective across a broader range of skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–IV) than Alexandrite, making it more versatile. Slower than Alexandrite on fine hair but safer for moderate skin tones. Many practices use combined Alexandrite/Diode/Nd:YAG platforms to cover all skin types.
See also: Alexandrite laser, Nd:YAG laser, Laser hair removal
Brand name for abobotulinumtoxinA (Galderma). A botulinum toxin type A neuromodulator similar to Botox. Dysport's units are not interchangeable with Botox units — approximately 2.5–3 Dysport units equal 1 Botox unit of effect. Dysport typically takes effect 1–2 days faster than Botox and may diffuse slightly more widely, which can be advantageous for large flat areas (forehead) and a consideration near the eyes.
See also: Botox, Xeomin, Neuromodulator
A body contouring device that uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy to induce supramaximal muscle contractions — equivalent to ~20,000 crunches in 30 minutes. Results in muscle hypertrophy and fat reduction. EmSculpt NEO adds radiofrequency for simultaneous fat reduction. Standard protocol: 4 sessions over 2 weeks. Results peak 2–4 weeks after the last session.
See also: Body contouring, CoolSculpting, HIFEM
A classification system (Types I–VI) for human skin tone based on response to UV light. Used in aesthetic medicine to assess laser and light treatment safety: lighter skin types (I–III) can tolerate shorter wavelengths; darker skin types (IV–VI) require longer wavelengths (Nd:YAG) to avoid hyperpigmentation and burns. Always tell your clinician your Fitzpatrick type before any laser treatment.
See also: Laser hair removal, IPL, Nd:YAG laser
A brand of fractional non-ablative laser (primarily 1550nm and 1927nm wavelengths). Fraxel creates microscopic treatment columns while leaving surrounding tissue intact, enabling faster recovery than fully ablative lasers. Used for acne scarring, sun damage, fine lines, and skin texture. Downtime: 3–5 days for Fraxel 1550; 1–2 weeks for the ablative 1927nm wavelength.
See also: Fractional resurfacing, Ablative laser, CO2 laser
A hormone released after eating that slows gastric emptying and reduces appetite. GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide/Ozempic/Wegovy, tirzepatide/Mounjaro/Zepbound) are prescription medications that mimic this effect for weight management. Clinical trials show 10–22% body weight reduction. These are prescription medications requiring clinical evaluation, labs, and monitoring — not supplements.
See also: Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, Weight management
The smallest-molecule AHA, derived from sugarcane. Penetrates skin more deeply than other AHAs due to its small molecular size. Used in concentrations from 5% (OTC) to 70% (clinical peels). At higher concentrations (20%+), effective for brightening, acne, and mild hyperpigmentation. Very high concentrations (50%+) require medical supervision.
See also: AHA, Chemical peel, Lactic acid
A naturally occurring polysaccharide in skin, joints, and connective tissue that holds water (up to 1,000x its weight). As a dermal filler, cross-linked HA adds volume, smooths wrinkles, and enhances facial contours. Brands include Juvéderm, Restylane, RHA, and Belotero. Key advantage over non-HA fillers: reversible with hyaluronidase.
See also: Hyaluronic acid filler, Juvéderm, Restylane, Hyaluronidase
The technology behind EmSculpt. Uses rapidly alternating magnetic fields to induce supramaximal muscle contractions — contractions impossible to achieve through voluntary exercise. Each 30-minute session is equivalent to approximately 20,000 abdominal contractions. Stimulates muscle fiber growth (hypertrophy) and increases muscle density.
See also: EmSculpt, Body contouring
A device-based facial treatment using a patented vortex tip to simultaneously cleanse, exfoliate, extract, and infuse serums (typically hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and peptides). No downtime, suitable for almost all skin types including sensitive skin. Single sessions produce immediate brightness; a series of 3–6 sessions addresses congestion, fine lines, and mild hyperpigmentation.
See also: Facial, Microdermabrasion
An enzyme that dissolves hyaluronic acid. Used to reverse or dissolve HA fillers — either to correct an undesired result, or as an emergency treatment for vascular occlusion (a rare but serious complication where filler blocks a blood vessel). Any practice performing HA filler injections should have hyaluronidase on site. If they say they don't, go elsewhere.
See also: HA filler, Vascular occlusion, Filler reversal
Darkening of skin due to excess melanin production. Caused by sun exposure (solar lentigines/age spots), post-inflammatory response (PIH — common after acne or skin trauma), or melasma (hormonally driven). Treatment options include AHA/BHA exfoliation, chemical peels, IPL, laser, and prescription topicals (hydroquinone, tretinoin, azelaic acid). Treatment approach depends heavily on the cause.
See also: Melasma, PIH, IPL, Chemical peel, Tretinoin
A broad-spectrum light treatment that targets both hemoglobin (redness, broken capillaries) and melanin (sun spots, age spots) simultaneously. Not technically a laser — emits a range of wavelengths rather than a single focused one. Effective for combined redness + pigmentation in lighter skin tones. Not appropriate for darker skin (Fitzpatrick IV+) due to burn risk from broad-spectrum absorption.
See also: Laser, Fitzpatrick scale, Hyperpigmentation
Brand name for prabotulinumtoxinA (Evolus). A newer botulinum toxin type A neuromodulator. Similar mechanism, onset, and duration to Botox and Dysport. Dosing is comparable to Botox (1:1 unit ratio). Often priced slightly below Botox due to market competition. Less widely available than Botox or Dysport.
See also: Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Neuromodulator
A family of HA filler products by Allergan/AbbVie. Juvéderm Ultra and Ultra Plus for lips and nasolabial folds; Voluma for cheeks; Vollure for moderate wrinkles; Volbella for lips and fine lines; Volux for jawline and chin. Each product has a different cross-linking density and thickness for the target area. Reversible with hyaluronidase.
See also: Restylane, RHA, Hyaluronic acid filler
An injectable deoxycholic acid treatment (Allergan/AbbVie) that permanently destroys fat cells under the chin. Approved specifically for submental fat reduction. Requires multiple sessions (2–6) spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Results are permanent once the fat cells are destroyed. CoolSculpting has largely replaced Kybella for chin fat in many practices due to comparable results with less swelling.
See also: Body contouring, CoolSculpting, Deoxycholic acid
A gentle AHA derived from milk. Larger molecule size than glycolic acid means slower penetration and less irritation — preferred for sensitive skin, rosacea-prone patients, and skin of color. Provides hydration alongside exfoliation. Available in both OTC (up to ~12%) and clinical concentrations. A good entry-point peel for patients new to chemical exfoliation.
See also: AHA, Glycolic acid, Chemical peel
A treatment using targeted laser energy to damage hair follicles and inhibit future growth. Achieves permanent reduction (not guaranteed elimination) over 6–8 sessions spaced 4–8 weeks apart. Effective on dark hair; does not work on white, gray, or light blonde hair (no melanin to target). Wavelength must match patient skin tone: Alexandrite for light skin, Nd:YAG for dark skin.
See also: Alexandrite laser, Nd:YAG laser, Diode laser, IPL
A neuromodulator treatment (typically 4–6 units of Botox or equivalent) injected into the orbicularis oris muscle above the upper lip. Relaxes the muscle so the lip rolls slightly upward, revealing more of the pink vermilion border. Subtle effect with 2–4 week duration. Does not add volume — often combined with filler for patients wanting both definition and volume.
See also: Botox, Lip filler, Neuromodulator
A common pigmentation condition characterized by brown or gray-brown patches on the face (cheeks, forehead, upper lip), driven by hormonal fluctuations (pregnancy, oral contraceptives) and UV exposure. Challenging to treat because heat and skin trauma can worsen it. Management includes strict sun avoidance, prescription topicals (hydroquinone, tretinoin, azelaic acid), and careful peel protocols with an experienced clinician.
See also: Hyperpigmentation, PIH, Hydroquinone, Tretinoin
A treatment using a device with tiny needles (0.5–3mm in clinical settings) to create controlled micro-injuries that trigger collagen and elastin production. Effective for acne scarring, skin texture, enlarged pores, fine lines, and early laxity. In-office devices (SkinPen, Morpheus8, Rejuvapen) reach depths that home dermarollers cannot. Series of 3–6 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart for optimal results.
See also: Collagen induction, PRP therapy, Morpheus8
A device combining microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy delivered at the tip of the needles. The combined mechanism simultaneously creates micro-injuries (stimulating collagen via wounding response) and delivers heat to the dermis and subdermis (stimulating collagen via thermal injury). Used for skin tightening, texture, acne scarring, and body contouring. Downtime: 1–3 days.
See also: Microneedling, Radiofrequency, Skin tightening
An IV nutrient formula developed by physician John Myers in the 1970s. Typically contains B vitamins (B1, B2, B5, B6, B12), vitamin C, magnesium, and calcium. Used for fatigue, migraines, fibromyalgia, and general wellness. Among the most evidence-backed IV formulas for specific conditions, though benefits for generally healthy patients are largely anecdotal.
See also: IV therapy, NAD+
A coenzyme essential for cellular energy metabolism, DNA repair, and mitochondrial function. NAD+ levels decline with age. IV NAD+ administration is one method to raise cellular NAD+ quickly (oral forms like NMN/NR also exist). Common in IV wellness protocols. Associated with flushing, chest tightness, and discomfort during infusion. Evidence for anti-aging effects in humans is currently limited to early-stage research.
See also: IV therapy, Myers' Cocktail
A 1064nm wavelength laser used for laser hair removal and vascular treatments. The longest commonly used wavelength, meaning less absorption by epidermal melanin — making it the safest laser for darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV–VI). Slightly less effective on very fine or light hair than shorter wavelengths, but the appropriate choice when patient safety requires it.
See also: Alexandrite laser, Diode laser, Fitzpatrick scale
The clinical term for botulinum toxin type A injectables used to temporarily relax facial muscles. Includes all brand-name products: Botox (Allergan), Dysport (Galderma), Xeomin (Merz), and Jeuveau (Evolus). Used for dynamic wrinkles, brow lifting, jaw slimming, hyperhidrosis, and other applications. Results last 3–4 months on average.
See also: Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Botulinum toxin
A rare but serious complication of cryolipolysis where the treated fat cells enlarge rather than shrink, resulting in a hardened, defined area of enlarged tissue. Associated with male sex and non-Allergan (counterfeit or off-brand) cryolipolysis devices. Requires surgical correction. This is one reason to ensure CoolSculpting is performed with authentic Allergan equipment by a trained clinician.
See also: CoolSculpting, Cryolipolysis
Short chains of amino acids that signal biological processes. In topical skincare, peptides signal collagen production and skin repair. In aesthetic medicine, injectable/oral peptide protocols include growth hormone secretagogues (sermorelin, ipamorelin/CJC-1295 for body composition), BPC-157/TB-500 for tissue repair, and GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight management. All prescription peptides require clinical oversight.
See also: GLP-1, Sermorelin, IV therapy
Darkening of skin that occurs after inflammation or injury — acne, burns, cuts, or aggressive skin treatments. More common and more pronounced in darker skin tones. Can be worsened by sun exposure. Treatment: strict sun avoidance, prescription topicals, and very careful selection of any additional treatments. Most chemical peels and lasers can trigger PIH in susceptible patients if performed without appropriate protocols.
See also: Hyperpigmentation, Melasma, Fitzpatrick scale
The active ingredient in Bellafill, a semi-permanent dermal filler. Tiny PMMA microspheres suspended in a collagen gel provide immediate volume, and as the collagen is absorbed, the microspheres remain in place and become encapsulated by the body's own collagen. Lasts 5+ years. Not reversible. Rarely used for first-time filler patients due to the permanence.
See also: Dermal filler, Hyaluronic acid filler, Biostimulator
The active ingredient in Sculptra, a collagen biostimulator. PLLA microspheres dissolved in water are injected into the dermis and subdermis, triggering a controlled inflammatory response that stimulates new collagen formation over 3–6 months. The PLLA itself gradually degrades; results are due to the patient's own collagen. Lasts 2+ years.
See also: Sculptra, Biostimulator, Collagen induction
Blood plasma concentrated with platelets at 4–6x baseline levels. Drawn from the patient's own blood, centrifuged to separate plasma from red blood cells, then applied topically after microneedling or injected at target sites. Growth factors in PRP (PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF) stimulate collagen production, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis. Used for facial rejuvenation, acne scarring, and hair restoration.
See also: Microneedling, Growth factors, Vampire facial
Drooping of the eyelid or eyebrow. A rare complication of neuromodulator injections near the eye, caused by unintended diffusion of the toxin into the levator palpebrae superioris (eyelid) or frontalis (forehead) muscles. Temporary — resolves as the product wears off in 2–8 weeks. Risk is higher with Dysport (greater diffusion) and clinicians with less anatomical precision.
See also: Botox, Dysport, Neuromodulator
A dermal filler by Merz using calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres. Thicker than most HA fillers — used for deeper structural work (cheeks, chin, jawline, hands). Stimulates collagen production as the carrier gel absorbs. Duration: 12–18+ months. Not reversible with hyaluronidase. Cannot be used in delicate areas like lips.
See also: Calcium hydroxylapatite, Biostimulator, Dermal filler
A family of HA filler products by Galderma. Includes Restylane-L (foundational), Restylane Silk (lips and fine lines), Restylane Lyft (cheeks, midface), Restylane Defyne/Refyne (nasolabial folds, flexibility), and Restylane Contour (cheek contour). Each product has a different particle size and cohesivity for different treatment areas. Reversible with hyaluronidase.
See also: Juvéderm, RHA, Hyaluronic acid filler
A line of HA fillers by Revance designed with longer HA polymer chains that better mimic natural HA in tissue movement. The RHA collection (RHA 2, 3, 4, Redensity) is intended to move more naturally with facial expressions — relevant for dynamic areas like the nasolabial folds and lips. Reversible with hyaluronidase.
See also: Juvéderm, Restylane, Hyaluronic acid filler
A BHA derived from willow bark. Oil-soluble, meaning it penetrates sebaceous follicles to exfoliate from within — uniquely effective for acne, blackheads, and congestion. Used in concentrations of 0.5–2% OTC and up to 30% in professional peels. Anti-inflammatory properties make it appropriate for inflammatory acne. Not recommended during pregnancy.
See also: BHA, Chemical peel, AHA
A collagen biostimulator by Galderma using poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). Unlike HA fillers, Sculptra doesn't add immediate volume — it triggers the body's collagen production over 3–6 months. Results last 2+ years. Requires a series of 2–3 sessions. Appropriate for patients seeking gradual, long-lasting volume restoration rather than immediate correction. Not appropriate for patients wanting quick visible results.
See also: Poly-L-lactic acid, Biostimulator, Dermal filler
A GLP-1 receptor agonist prescription medication for weight management. Branded as Ozempic (diabetes indication) and Wegovy (obesity indication). Clinical trials show approximately 15% average body weight reduction over 68 weeks. A prescription medication requiring clinical evaluation, labs, and ongoing monitoring — not a supplement. Compounded versions are available from licensed compounding pharmacies during brand-name shortages.
See also: GLP-1, Tirzepatide, Weight management
A medium-to-deep chemical peel using trichloroacetic acid (TCA) at concentrations of 15–50%+. TCA self-neutralizes, creating visible 'frosting' (whitening of the skin) as it reaches depth. Medium TCA (20–35%) treats sun damage, acne scarring, and moderate wrinkles with 5–10 days of visible peeling. Higher concentrations reach deeper dermis with more dramatic results and longer recovery.
See also: Chemical peel, AHA, Glycolic acid, Jessner's peel
A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist prescription medication (branded as Mounjaro for diabetes, Zepbound for obesity). Clinical trials show greater weight loss than semaglutide (approximately 22% body weight reduction). Available as brand-name products and compounded alternatives from licensed pharmacies. Requires clinical evaluation and monitoring as with all GLP-1 class medications.
See also: GLP-1, Semaglutide, Weight management
A prescription-strength retinoid (retinoic acid) — the most evidence-backed topical for fine lines, acne, and hyperpigmentation. 10–50x stronger than OTC retinol. Requires an initial adaptation period (4–8 weeks of peeling, irritation, and purging). Available by prescription from licensed clinicians at clinics, dermatologists, and telehealth clinicians. Contraindicated during pregnancy.
See also: Retinol, Retinoid, Hyperpigmentation, Acne
A non-invasive skin tightening treatment using micro-focused ultrasound (HIFU) to heat the SMAS layer — the same layer surgeons address in a facelift. The thermal injury stimulates new collagen production over 3–6 months. Used for brow lifting, jawline, neck, and décolletage. Single treatment produces results; some patients benefit from a second session. Results last 1–2 years.
See also: HIFU, Skin tightening, Morpheus8, Radiofrequency
A rare but serious complication of filler injection where product blocks a blood vessel, cutting off oxygen supply to the supplied tissue. Can cause tissue necrosis (skin death) or vision loss if affecting vessels near the eye. Treatment requires immediate hyaluronidase injection (for HA fillers). Any practice performing HA fillers must have hyaluronidase on site and a vascular occlusion protocol — this is non-negotiable.
See also: Dermal filler, Hyaluronidase, HA filler
Brand name for incobotulinumtoxinA (Merz). A botulinum toxin type A neuromodulator notable for containing only the active toxin without complexing proteins. This means Xeomin is less likely to cause antibody resistance than Botox or Dysport in patients receiving repeated treatments. Dosing is comparable to Botox (1:1 unit ratio). Duration and onset are similar to Botox.
See also: Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, Neuromodulator
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