What is Scalp Botox?

Hair loss? Thinning hair? Sweaty scalp? I’ve got something that can help—Botox.

When you think about Botox, chances are you are thinking about banishing those little crow’s feet around your eyes into oblivion. But did you know there is so much more you can do with Botox? So, so much more. And I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, am here to let you in on the latest. And it’s all about Botox for your hair. 

You may have heard of hair Botox, but that’s a gimmick at a salon to keep your hair straight and frizz free. I’m talking about actual Botox for your scalp. We know the FDA approved Botox for hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). But as we look deeper into that we can see that can mean applying scalp Botox to prevent excessive sweating and prolonging your blow out. In a recent article in Byrdie, doctors talked about how scalp Botox, when injected into the hair follicles (which have sweat and oil glands), can stop sweating and oil production to keep your hair cleaner longer. This is ideal for someone who works out on a regular basis. Treatments involve not working out for several hours and waiting three to five days before your next blowout to give the Botox time to set. These treatments can be done two to three times a year, of moreso, if you’re the type who tends to go through your Botox a bit on the quicker side. 

Another study in 2020 in China suggests injecting Botox into the scalp every 3 months for 12 months can actually help grow hair. So if you are someone with thinning hair or hair loss, this may be perfect for you. The theory behind this science is that since Botox helps muscles relax, this can help blood flow to the scalp, which will increase nutrients to the hair. However, the follicles must still be in place, so if you have a patch of baldness, chances are this will not work there. The treatment must be done to prevent hair loss not after balding has set in. 

If scalp Botox is something you want to learn more about, let me, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, help. You will typically need 100 to 200 units per session at $12.50 a unit. Expect around 1,250 to 2,500 units every three to four months.  

If you are interested in a consultation, simply reach out by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co. And be sure to follow along to see my before and after shots.

To Dissolve or Not to Dissolve, That is the Question

Thinking about dissolving your fillers. Here are a few things to think about first.

While scrolling through Instagram the other day, I noticed The Cut had a post called The Big Dissolve: They Blew Up Their Faces. Now They’re Melting Them Down. The article goes on to talk about how pillowy faces are a fading trend. And while people were once racing to injectors to use fillers to give them what God didn’t or what aging took away, now they are racing to injectors to dissolve those fillers. The latest trend: An angular face, a la Bella Hadid. 

When it comes to dissolving fillers, my take, as an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, is different then most. To start the dissolving process, it typically takes one to two sessions to dissolve. The sessions can be 3 to 5 days apart. Then, you have to wait two weeks before you can refill from your last dissolving session. When we start to refill, we have to go slow. That means one syringe at a time using a smaller molecule that is less likely to migrate again. From here, we can build the lips up back to the size they are used to, but we typically have to give it at least four to six weeks in between the first two syringes, then two to three months in between the subsequent syringes. If someone has a lot of volume, which is typically the people who also have migration, it can take them a good six to eight months to build back up to the volume they’re used to without the migration. It’s a big process and expensive as well. Each vile of dissolver is $350. Each syringe of filler is $800. For those who have tiny areas of migration at all, you really have to be ready for the process before you just go and dissolve. In my experience, a lot of patients are not ready for the process. In that case, they try to do just a half syringe to shape a little bit more dimension and lift. Then, when they’re ready, they come back and start the process. Most of the time, it’s a year-plus before they come back and decide to dissolve. 

As well, I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, am not someone who will force people to dissolve because it is such a big undertaking. There are a lot of injectors who won’t touch you unless you do. This is not my school of thought. It’s your face and I’m here to help you accomplish what you want in the best way possible for you. But I am here to guide you through what will work best for the look you are trying to achieve. 

If you are interested in a consultation, simply reach out by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co. And be sure to follow along to see my before and after shots. 

Gua Sha Trends to Avoid in 2023

Here’s what not to do with your Gua Sha

There’s a TikTok trend going around you should definitely skip. It involves migrated filler and your Gua Sha. And I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, am here to make sure you stay safe from this misinformation.

For those who don’t know, a Gua sha is a tool to rub the skin in long strokes. If used correctly, it applies enough pressure to create minor bruising. While the tool can help break down scar and connective tissue, it is not a filler migration fixer. And despite that, many on social media are showing videos of themselves using gua sha to move their migrated filler back into place. In fact, using a gua sha can actually move around fresh filler or Botox, so it’s best to avoid using it for two weeks after being injected. 

Yes, sometimes filler migration happens. No, you cannot move it back into place with a gua sha, no matter what social media says. The only way to fix migrated filler is by dissolving it. This is one of many reasons why it’s important to go to a trusted and educated injector, like me, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co is a must when it comes to injectables. 

There are a few other rules when it comes to what not to do after getting injectables. 

• Stay away from intense cardio. It can raise your blood pressure which can cause bruising or swelling at the injection site.

• Don’t apply makeup directly after. Needles leave tiny pricks in the face and you wouldn’t want any bacteria getting in there. 

• Don’t lay down for at least four hours after getting injected. This can actually help prevent migration so you don’t have to go to TikTok in search of crazy methods to fix your injectables. 

• Avoid alcohol. Yup, it causes bruising. 

And whatever you do, don’t use a gua sha as an attempt to move migrated filler back into place. Come see me and we will dissolve it and start anew instead.

If you are interested in a consultation, simply reach out by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co. And be sure to follow along to see my before and after shots. 

How to Book for Big Events

The holidays are coming. Book now before it’s too late.

Hanukkah. Christmas. New Year’s Eve. All the big holidays are coming. So when is it best to book your appointment? Keep reading and I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, will help you find out when it’s best to schedule your injection appointments for holidays or big days ahead.

When it comes to events with photos, you’ll want to give yourself a week or two to book. For big events, like New Year’s Eve, you’ll want to give your injectable at least two weeks for everything to settle and bruising to subside. Remember, it takes products like Botox up to two weeks to see the full effect. As well,  for those that bruise, bruising typically lasts between three to five days. Limiting painkillers like Advil for up to seven days before you appointment can help minimize that, as well. But it’s something you’ll want to take into account because no one wants to attend a holiday party with a bruise hidden under their makeup. 

When it comes to the waitlist at Smith and Co, my website at smithandco.com updates live, so you can literally sit and refresh the page and see openings in real time. Confirmations go out five days in advance, so that’s when you start seeing stuff open the same week, as they have up to 48 hours to cancel. You can even find appointments a day or two out, if you watch the site. If you already have an appointment booked and you’re looking for something sooner, you can also shoot me a text or DM and I will put it in. However, most of the time the openings come and go so quickly, I am unable to save the spot because of the system in place. 

So when is the best time to book for holiday appointments? Essentially, it’s now. We are just 23 days away from New Year’s Eve. If you’re looking for a new pout to pucker up at the stroke of midnight, the best time to book is right now.

I hope to see you soon. And happy almost 2023. If a consultation on filler or a different procedure, like Botox, PDO threads or any number of other services is something you’re interested in, simply reach out. Prices and the number of syringes can all be discussed at your consultation. Schedule a consultation with me by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co. 

Do You Do Tear Troughs at Smith and Co?

Keep reading to find out.

Rarely a day goes by when I don’t get asked if I do under eye filler, or tear troughs. It’s one of those areas so many of us want to improve. And it’s easy to see why. Bad night of sleep? Dark circles. Allergies? Dark circles. Stressed out? Dark circles. Getting older? Dark circles. And try as you might to slather every eye cream on earth on them, there they are. Always there. The circle you never wanted to be a part of. So when people come to me asking for filler in their tear troughs, I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, understand why. However, it’s not a service I offer and here is why. My main rule is I don’t do anything I can’t fix. Under the eyes is a tricky area and the complications from under eyes can be surgical. Tear troughs also come with a lot of swelling and bruising that patients have a hard time dealing with. Sometimes you can even have delayed effects months after the procedure. The adverse event (excess bruising, delayed swelling or chronic swelling for months or bad placement / filler moving) is reported to happen 20 percent of the time. That ratio is just too high for me and my practice set up to manage. But that doesn’t mean I am against the procedure. I do support getting tear troughs, and they can be done well. You’ll want to go to somebody who specializes in them and can manage any of the issues / complications that can arise. I am happy to make suggestions on who is best for you. 

Before running to get your tear troughs filled, consider cheek filler to help improve the under eye area. Many clients who struggle with this area find that filling in their cheeks will diminish the tear troughs themselves and create a smoother transition between upper cheeks and the under eye region. This is a great place to start if this is one of your areas of concern without the possible complications. 

If a consultation on filler or a different procedure, like Botox, PDO threads or any number of other services is something you’re interested in, simply reach out. Prices and the number of syringes can all be discussed at your consultation. Schedule a consultation with me by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co. 

Could Joe Jonas Be the Long-Last Secret to Male-based Injectables?

Now that the star is using Xeomin to treat wrinkles, he’s speaking out about it. Will other men follow suit?

The face of injectables had long been a woman-dominated world. There’s Kylie Jenner, Britney Spears, Jessica Simpson, Lisa Rinna, Katy Perry, Kaley Cuoco and Christie Brinkley. Then there’s the ones who refuse to admit they’ve had them but we’ve all seen their faces of the past versus the one today. We all know who they are, too. Even if they deny it. 

But what about the men? It’s no secret injectables work for both men and women, but men have a tendency to share their experiences less. Does that mean men aren’t using injectables? Of course they are. And now with male celebs like Joe Jonas are speaking out about using them, expect to hear more men admitting to keeping their youthful appearance with injectables. 

"We're all getting older and part of that is being comfortable [in our skin]," Jonas told PEOPLE magazine. “We can be open and honest about it and be confident and not really shy away from speaking our truth."

So where has Jonas been jabbed? Frown lines and wrinkles —just like many of the rest of us. He goes on to say, “There were all these talks at one point, like, 'Oh, men can't do this or it's weird for guys to do that,' and I think there's a stigma that's fading, and I like that," Jonas continued. "Guys are more openly wearing makeup, and it's great to see. It's like, do whatever you want, you know? It's a beautiful generation that we're living in,” he tells the magazine. 

Indeed it is a beautiful thing when you can be open and honest about what makes you feel and look great. So if you’re a man or live with one who could use a little help from injectables, let me,  Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, help. We can discuss Botox, filler and any preventative care you may feel you need.

If a consultation is something you’re interested in, simply reach out. Prices and the number of syringes can all be discussed at your consultation. Schedule a consultation with me by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co.

The Best Lip Transformations of Summer 2022

As we start to say so long to summer (well, the season, not the actual weather), let’s look back at some of the best lip transformations of summer 2022 that I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, did right here in my own chair. I’ll share what we did and what we did it with. Be sure to comment and let me know which is your favorite. Also, if you’re looking to give your lips a little boost, consider booking an appointment with me. Prices and the number of syringes can all be discussed at your consultation. Schedule a consultation with me by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co.

#1

I used Restylane Kysse and the Ashton technique to create this shape, which included a  little lip lift. Then I build out the tails of the upper lip, creating a long classic shape. We then pulled down her bottom into a longer rounder shape. This photo is immediately after and she is 30-40 percent more swollen than her final result. To build up to this as a final result she would need to add an additional half syringe.

#2

Here is another example of Restylane Kysse and the Ashton technique. Here, we injected a full syringe of Restylane Kysse using the Ashton technique to create this beautiful shape. We increased the surface of her top lip, then built out her tails and tapered them down. We then pulled the bottom down into a round pouty shape with an overall 45/55 ratio.

#3

It’s all about the pout with this one. I injected a full syringe of Restylane Kysse using the Ashton technique to give these babies a nice little plump and shape. We gave her a nice lip lift and pulled the bottom down to give her a pouty shape.

#4

Using Restylane Kysse and the Ashton technique, I created a full, classic shape with a soft Cupid’s bow. She had some good base volume already, so we were able to work on top of it and focus on creating the shape to enhance her volume. We gave her a nice lip lift with a soft Cupid’s bow. We then built out her tails to give her a longer classic shape with a rounded bottom. We created an overall 50/50 ratio between top and bottom.

#5

Here we injected Restylane Kysse using the Ashton technique to build out her tails and create this beautiful shape. We started by giving her a nice lip lift by pulling the tissue up versus pushing it forward. We then built out the tails of her top to create a longer, more balanced top lip. We pulled down the bottom lip into a round pouty shape with an overall 50/50 ratio.

#6

​I injected a full syringe of Restylane Kysse using the Ashton technique to create this beautiful shape. We started by focusing on getting her a nice lip lift. We then built out the tails to create a full, classic shape. We then pulled down the bottom and rounded it out to give her a pouty bottom.

#7 

This is a combination of Restylane Kysse using the Ashton technique to create this shape. We started by focusing on a lip lift. Then, we built out the tails to create a full, classic shape. By pulling  down the bottom and rounding out, we created a cute, pouty bottom.

#8

Here, we injected Restylane Kysse using the Ashton technique to create this beautiful and classic shape. We gave her a nice lip lift shortening the distance between her Cupid’s bow and the base of her nose. Shortening this distance can create a much more youthful appearance. We then built out her tails to create a longer classic shape. Finally, we pulled down the bottom into a wider round shape to complete the overall look. We were able to give her a really nice defined and contoured border. 

Fill ‘Er Up?

Actress Jennifer Garner recently told Harper’s Bazaar a dirty little secret about fillers and Botox when she was asked to share her best beauty advice. "My advice is to look at the mirror less and be cautious when it comes to injecting anything into your face. Be very, very incredibly judicious and wait as absolutely long as possible to add anything. Don't think that you're 37 and you need to be shooting up your face. You don't need to wear so much make-up or have such a constant blowout."

So is it better to wait until you need filler to start using it? Or should you treat filler as a preventative measure? Ironically, the same magazine that interviewed Garner also interviewed Dr. Ava Shamban and shared this little bit of advice a few years earlier: "Research found if you take Restylane and inject it into the arm, then do electron microscopy and really look at the skin, there's the formation of more collagen," said Shamban, who explained that Restylane, a cross-linked hyaluronic acid, can trigger collagen growth by "stretching" the skin's fibroblasts, which are cells found in the connective tissue that stimulate wound healing. "The theory is that when you inject new hyaluronic acid, all of a sudden they can grab on to it and it activates collagen. I was surprised by it and didn't understand it at first, but the results persisted well after the skin metabolized the product and collagen formation occurred unequivocally."

As it turns out, injecting filler as a preventative measure can actually help you grow more collagen, making it beneficial, and not, as Garner said, something to frown upon.

While Garner may be a beauty, she is not a doctor or medical expert. When it comes to injectables, it’s best to listen to experts, not celebrities. That’s why I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami Botox and filler specialist at smith & co., am happy to sit with you through a consultation and answer any questions you may have. I can let you know which areas need filler, which filler is best to use and how long it will last. I’m happy to see you through every step of the process. 

Let’s leave actors to acting and injecting to people like me.

If a consultation is something you’re interested in, simply reach out. Prices and the number of syringes can all be discussed at your consultation. Schedule a consultation with me by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co. 

Turn That Frown (Line) Upside Down

Frown lines. Technically known as glabellar lines, frown lines are those little lines between the brows and above the bridge of the nose, even though it sounds like they are the lines around the mouth. And yup, they happen. Just because you are starting to see them, have had them for a while or are worried about getting them doesn’t mean you’re stuck with them. I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, am here to help you understand where frown lines come from and how to get rid of them. 

Why Frown Lines Are No Fun

Hate frown lines? You aren’t alone. They have a way of making you look grumpy, which can make you come across as a way that may be completely different from how you really are. It can even make you feel grumpy because it takes away from the self-confidence you should be wearing. 

Why Frown Lines Happen

Frown lines don’t happen because of frowning too much. That’s an old wives tale. So why they are called frown lines? It’s not because you frown so much. It’s because they resemble a frown. What causes them, however, is just part of the normal aging process. It can be from sun damage, genetics, sagging skin—there are many contributing factors. Some you have control over include: 

Smoking: Yup, it’s not great for the skin in general. Tobacco, when inhaled, narrows blood vessels, which can make skin wrinkle.

Sun: If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a million times. Wear sunscreen. Not wearing sunscreen allows ultraviolet rays to break down the skin’s elastin and collagen. Wearing sunscreen, even when you don’t plan to be in the sun, helps prevent skin from loosening and sagging. 

How to Stop the Appearance of Frown Lines

Collagen masks, facial massages and exercises and chemical peels are all a great way to ward off frown lines, but the very best way to treat them is with Botox. Because these lines, which are sometimes called 11s, are considered dynamic wrinkles, Botox is the best way to fix them. If Botox is something you are considering, or if you want a solution for your frown lines, consider booking an appointment with me, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co. Prices and the number of syringes can all be discussed at your consultation. Schedule a consultation with me by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co. 

What to Ask Your Injector About Fillers

So you’re thinking about getting fillers for the first time, but you’re not sure what to expect. Don’t worry, you aren’t alone. In fact, in 2015, 9.1 million Botox and filler procedures were performed. And that was long before fillers reached the popular status they have today. We all have to take that first step eventually. I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, am here to help guide you through every step of the process, from breaking myths and setting the record straight to sharing tips on what to do pre and post treatment for the best results. Here are some of the most common questions I come across here at Smith and Co.

To help ease your mind, ask your injector about their experience. For instance, I, Danielle Smith, am a Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner. To help you feel more comfortable, I can tell you all about my training and the number of injections I do a month. These are great questions to help ease your mind about how experienced I am with injecting fillers. Go ahead, ask.

Next, ask about the product. Ask about its shelf life. Ask which one is best for you. Ask where they are stored. Ask who makes them, and how long they last. What happens when they start to fade? I’m happy to give you all of this information as well. Knowledge is power. And the more you know, the more comfortable you will feel.

Then, let’s talk about the outcome. Ask me how to give you a natural look. Ask me how we can eventually build up to fuller lips, if that is something you are after. Would you like to see before and after shots? Just ask. I have an entire Instagram full to help you understand the process and see the results. 

Worried you won’t like the results? Ask me what we can do to reverse the fillers we applied. Fillers can be dissolved. However, most times patients start small and love their results and want to build up to more over time. 

What’s next? Once you finally take the plunge, ask me what to expect. What will happen today? What is normal for tomorrow? What can I expect in the days to come? How will it look in the weeks and months to come? When should I come back. These are all the important questions I am happy to guide you through. I’ll also let you know what to avoid and what to do to help make the most of your fillers.

Don’t be surprised if you love them so much that your next question is, “What can we do next?”

I’m happy to answer that one, too.

If a consultation with me, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co., is something you’re interested in, simply reach out to Prices and the number of syringes can all be discussed at your consultation. Schedule a consultation with me by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co. 

The Perfect Profile

Tired of facing the camera head on? Here’s a procedure at Smith and Co that’s turning heads.

Not thrilled with your side profile? Always taking pics facing forward? Maybe it’s a weak jawline or chin that has you feeling this way. If that’s the case, I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, can help. I’ll have you feel freshly snatched in no time, a la Angelina Jolie, the Kardashians, even JLo. What genetics didn’t give you, dermal fillers and I can. 

Jaw fillers are a great nonsurgical solution to add symmetry, balance, definition or contour to your face. In fact, in 2019, injectors saw a 20 percent increase in the popularity of this procedure. Sometimes these fillers are referred to as nonsurgical jawline contouring. Those fillers are gels injected into the skin to help stimulate collagen. By adding these fillers, you can help cure saggy skin around the jaws. Injecting filler can help fight age-related volume loss in the lower part of the face, sometimes called jowls. It can also give the jawline a more pronounced appearance. If it’s your chin you aren’t happy with, filler can add in where mother nature fell short. All of this helps frame the face with a stronger foundation and a side profile that is Instagram worthy. 

The best fillers for this area tend to be thicker. Think Restylane Lyft and/or Juvederm Ultra Plus. However, if it’s a double chin you’re looking to eliminate, the best option is Kybella. 

The cost for a typical jawline filler appointment is between $1,300 and $3,250 and can use anywhere from two to five syringes. Follow-up applications can be anywhere from six to eight months. However, each patient is different, so a personal consultation with me, Danielle Smith, is recommended.  

If jawline filler is something you’ve wanted to learn more about, a consultation with Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co. can help guide you in the right direction. Simply reach out to see what dermal fillers can do for you. Prices and the number of syringes can all be discussed at your consultation. You can schedule a consultation with me by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co. 

PDO Threads or Facelift: Which is Right For You?

Now that mask mandates are starting to fade, we’re easing back into facing the world again. For some of us, putting our best face forward is something we’ve put on the back burner. And it’s understandable why— given the past two years. Want to get back to a youthful appearance but think a facelift is the only way to achieve your goal? There may be another, less invasive option for you. A bit back, I Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co., shared a post on if PDO Threads are right for you. However, PDO Threads only work if you are in the earlier signs of aging. For some, PDO Threads. For others, the only option is a facelift. If you’re considering one or the other, take a look to see if PDO Threads are right for you first. It could be a great start before a facelift.

If you’re unhappy with your nasolabial folds, cheeks, marionettes or jawline and the aging process isn’t too far along, PDO Threads are most likely the best option for you. Here’s why it’s a plus over a facelift. PDO Thread lifts are minimally invasive. It’s also more affordable. It doesn’t require anesthesia and has minimal side effects and healing time. It’s a procedure that leaves no scarring and provides flexible options. However, the results do not last as long as a facelift. While it does promote the growth of collagen, it is not a lasting effect and may require additional visits for desired results. The results are also less dramatic than a facelift. So if it’s a slight change you’re looking for, this is the option for you. 

PDO Threads are great for the face and neck area. It will also rebuild collagen in the skin and hold the skin and lift it for an extended period of time. Enhancing collagen can help reduce wrinkles and leave skin looking smoother and younger. Results yield around 30 percent more improvement, compared to a facelift. And those results can last 1 to 2 years, while a facelift can yield results that last up to 20 years and offer a 100 percent improvement. 

A consultation with Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co. Danielle can help guide you in an uplifting direction when it comes to PDO thread lifts. Simply reach out to her to see what PDO thread lifts can do for you. Prices and the number of threads can all be discussed at your consultation. 

Why is Lip Filler so Popular?

What is it about lip filler? From filters on Instagram and actresses parading their pouts to everyday Jane’s plumping them up, it seems like everyone is into lip fillers these days. But why? I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, am here to share a few reasons why lip filler is such a popular procedure and help you determine if it’s something you want to explore. 

One of the reasons lip filler like Restylane Kysse are so popular is because its helps create a shape patient desires. Maybe it’s a more defined shape. Maybe it’s a more defined cupid’s bow. If there’s something you want to change about the outline of your lips, fillers can help. Results will last anywhere from 8 months to a year, as well, so it’s a procedure that goes the distance.

Another reason is adding fullness. Maybe you weren’t born with a perfectly plump pout. That doesn’t mean you have to spend your days overlining your lips to get the fullness you crave. Fillers are a great way to add volume to your lips. And that doesn’t mean you’ll wind up with “fake” looking lips. Incredibly plump pouts require a buildup. They don’t just happen overnight. If you also suffer from asymmetries in your lips that bother you, fillers can help. They can balance out what you see, giving you the lips you have always wanted. 

Lip fillers can also reduce the appearance of fine lines on lips and around the mouth area. If you’re starting to show signs of aging, lip filler is a good idea. As we age, our lips thin. Whether it’s a full pout or just a little touch up, fillers are a great way to keep your lips from aging. The fine vertical lines that begin to appear above the top lip (often referred to as smoker’s lines—whether or not the patient smokes) are another sign of aging that fillers can fix. The results of thinning skin, these lines can be smoothed over with fillers. 

If you are thinking about Botox, fillers, Kybella or PDO Threads, let me, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, help you determine which is best for your needs. You can schedule a consultation with me by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co.

What’s on the Menu at Smith & Co

It’s a new year, so what better time to re-introduce myself and all the things I offer at Smith & Co? I’m Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, I am a certified Nurse Practitioner and have trained with world-renowned dermatologists and plastic surgeons in aesthetics medicine. My practice is female-run and in Miami Beach, where I have been for nearly a decade now. I have a one-chair practice and am the only injector at Smith & Co. My time with each customer is one on one, so we can find out what works best for you. 

I only use FDA-approved products, like Botox and Dysport to reduce wrinkles on the forehead, smile lines, frown lines and crow’s feet. When it comes to fillers, I use Restylane Kysse and Juvederm and the Ashton and Russian techniques to plump lips to create sought-after pouts. Keep in mind it takes time to build up to the perfect shape. 

When it comes to dermal fillers, I offer Juvederm, Vollure, Voluma, Volbella, Restylane, Lyft, Silk, Refyne and Defyne. We can contour cheeks and jawlines using these fillers so you can achieve the look you desire. I also offer Kybella to contour the jawline and melt chin fat. If it’s a double chin you want to erase, Kybella is the perfect choice for you. 

If a PDO Thread facelift is something you are thinking about, I offer this service. We can use PDO Threads, like the three-prong PDO thread lift to lift cheeks, marionette lines and tighten jawlines.

I also offer services just for men. From line softening to volume replacement to jawline chiseling, I’m here to help guy’s achieve the look they desire, too. 

I even offer help with hyperhidrosis (underarm sweating). Botox is a great way to treat this issue, if it’s something you have been struggling with. 

From plump lips to model-esque cheeks and snatched jawlines, you can find examples of my work on my Instagram. 

If you are thinking about Botox, fillers, Kybella or PDO Threads, let me, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, help you determine which is best for your needs. We’ll create the look that will leave you smiling—minus the smile lines. You can schedule a consultation with me by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co.

What NOT to Do After Getting Botox and Fillers

We can all agree Botox and fillers are amazing at helping you feel and look younger and more refreshed. Why spend money on an eye cream that may work, when you know a quick injection will actually decrease the appearance of crow’s feet for months to come?

As much as Botox and fillers are miracle solutions, there are things you must avoid doing in order to make the most of your injectables after getting them.

Because both Botox and dermal fillers are metabolized by the body and are eventually safely secreted through the kidneys and liver, things like drinking alcohol and exercising are on the no no list. While fillers go deep into the skin, Botox is injected into muscles, where it is absorbed slowly (which is why it takes longer to set in). Because of this, each requires a different set of rules of things to avoid after being injected. With so many holiday appointments coming up (and lots of parties to attend after), I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, thought this was the best time to remind all my clients of the rules for post-appointment protocol. 

What NOT to do after getting Botox

Botox is a girl’s (and guy’s) favorite neurotoxin, because it goes into the muscle to temporarily reduce lines and wrinkles (think crow’s feet and 11 lines between brows). Typically, it lasts up to four months (depending on your metabolism). To help make the most of your BOTOX, make sure to SKIP:

Intense Cardio

Cardio is a no-no. Because it temporarily raises your blood pressure, cardio right after Botox can increase swelling and/or bruising. And that’s something we all want to avoid. It’s best to take a full day off to let your Botox settle before you jump back into your workout. So skip the gym. It’s OK this time. I promise.

Makeup

Needles leave tiny holes at the Injection site. Applying makeup directly after Botox could potentially expose you to bacteria. But, if you wait at least 30 minutes, these tiny holes will start to heal themselves and you can jump back into your makeup routine. 

Facial Tools

Jade rollers are fun, but did you know using them right after Botox can increase blood flow and cause swelling and/or bruising? Even worse, it can cause Botox to migrate under the skin. Avoid using these tools after getting Botox. You want your tox to stay right where I, your injector, intended it to go. 

Laying Down

Maintaining your youth is an exhausting job. But avoid laying down for the first four hours after getting injected. Laying down could cause your Botox to migrate and it could also increase bruising. Same goes for sleeping on your face the first night after getting Botox. You want it to settle into your muscles the way your injector intended, so prop up some pillows and sleep on your back. 

Alcohol

Botox appointments generally happen right before special occasions. And special occasions generally include alcoholic beverages. But if you just got injected, you’ll want to skip the drinks, especially if you are prone to bruising. Alcohol thins the blood and that can cause you to bruise. Skip the drinks and opt for water instead. 

And then there’s filler. It literally fills in those wrinkles on your face you can see when your face is in the resting position (think laugh lines). While fillers are great at also restoring collagen loss and increasing collagen production, when it comes to DERMAL FILLERS, here’s what you’ll want to AVOID after your appointment: 

Facials and Massages

Fillers don’t have a tendency to migrate, but if enough pressure is applied to them, they can. That’s why it’s best to skip facials, massages, even microdermabrasion for the first two week after getting filler. You’ll also want to avoid rubbing where you were just injected for a few days after your appointment to help stave off bruising and swelling. 

Tanning

Tanning is never a great idea. It’s best to always apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before you go outdoors. But if you’ve just received filler, it’s especially best to avoid direct UV rays. They can cause swelling and/or bruising and redness where filler was applied. You want to look your best (which is why you just got filler), so keep things covered.

If you are thinking about Botox and/or fillers, let me, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, help you determine which is best for your needs. We’ll create the look that will leave you smiling—minus the crow’s feet. You can schedule a consultation with me by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co.

My Top 10 Transformations

Everyone loves a before and after photo. Being able to see someone’s transformation offers hope and can help you make a decision on what is best for you, especially when it comes to injectables. Currently, in my Instagram gallery, I have more than 675 before and after photos. From those 675 photos, I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, put together a list of my top 10 transformations, from lips to jawlines and more. Here’s a look at what I consider some of my best work. 

Number 10 Transformation 

This classic 3 vector PDO thread lift helped lift cheeks, marionettes and jowls. I also used Kysse and the Ashton technique on her lips, as well as Volbella for the smile lines. What a makeover.

Number 9 Transformation

Kysse and the Ashton technique were used to create a gorgeous pouty 50/50 shape. And what a difference it made.

Number 8 Transformation

Here, I again used the Ashton technique and Kysse to create a gorgeous shape. Giving her a lip lift helped to create this beautiful pout.

Number 7 Transformation

I used one syringe of Kysse and the Ashton technique to plump this pout to its perfection. I increased surface area on top and created a nice round shape on the bottom with a 45/55 ratio.

Number 6 Transformation

I was able to create this lift refresh with PDO threads, giving her a natural mid and lower face lift. Her jawline is now the one she’s always dreamed of having. 

Number 5 Transformation

A defined Cupid’s bow and a lip lift are how I created this look. And all it took was one syringe of Kysse.

Number 4 Transformation 

Kysse and the Ashton technique are how I help achieve this beautiful shape. Look at how plump and perfect her lips are in the after photo.

Number 3 Transformation

A beautiful lip lift and increased surface area is how I crafted these beauties. I was able to do so with Kysse and the Ashton technique. We were both beyond pleased with the results of this lip filler transformation.

Number 2 Transformation

For this lip filler transformation, I used Defyne and the Russian technique. The Russian technique is a more dramatic version of the Ashton technique. As you can see, these lips are dramatic and gorgeous. 

Number 1 Transformation

And the number one transformation is a combination of the Ashton technique with Kysse. She had a lot of natural lip tissue was just waiting to be filled. And not only did she and Iove the results, you clearly did, too.

If you are looking to make a transformation with injectables, let me, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, help you determine what will wok best for you. We’ll create the look that will leave you smiling—minus the crow’s feet. You can schedule a consultation with me by by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co.  

Botox vs Dysport: Which is best for you?

In the world of injectables, it’s B vs D. Botox vs Dysport. So which do you choose when it comes to putting your best face forward? Well, let’s start with the facts. You’ll need a professional like me, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co., to inject you with either. But i’m also here to explain the difference between the two, which is best for what and how long sets in, lasts and works best for you. As always, a consultation is the best way to determine which injectable is best for your needs. So, if it’s something you are considering, let’s meet face to face. And while you’re booking your consultation read up on each. 

WHAT IS DYSPORT

Dysport is a botulinum toxin injection. 

It’s used to treat and prevent wrinkles.

Dysport is safe and effective.

Dysport lasts 3 to 4 months (depending on the individual).

Dysport is $12 a unit at Smith & Co.

WHAT IS BOTOX

Botox is also a botulinum toxin injection. 

It’s used to treat and prevent wrinkles.

Botox is safe and effective.

Botox lasts 3 to 4 months (depending on the individual).

Botox is $12 a unit at Smith & Co.

THE DIFFERENCE

Dysport has a softer hold and offers almost a glow to it, like an airbrush finish. It takes only 2 to 3 days to set, as it is more diluted and spreads quickly compared to Botox. It’s optimal for thinner muscles, like crows feet, where you still want give and glide and not a frozen look. Botox, however, has a tighter hold. It sets in after about 5 to 7 days. It’s optimal for strong muscles, like frown lines and forehead wrinkles. The biggest difference is in the trace proteins, which deals with the hard and soft holds of the injectable. 

Both are great if you are looking to ward off wrinkles and prevent future ones. Let me, ​​Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, help you determine which is best for your needs. We’ll create the look that will leave you smiling—minus the crow’s feet. You can schedule a consultation with me by by calling 305-393-2311 or reaching me here online. I’m also happy to answer any questions you may have via DM on Instagram at smithand_co.

Should You Use a Hyaluron Pen?

Have a hyaluron pen? Here’s my advice as an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co: 

Walk over to wherever it is.

Grab it.

Toss it in the trash.

Never look back.

Call me, ​​Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, instead.

Still considering getting one? 

Don’t. 

The hyaluron pen is everywhere these days, especially social media. But, the truth is, the hyaluron pen is a bad idea. In fact, it’s actually dangerous. While it’s supposed to puff up lips, it, like fillers, is made from hyaluronic acid—something that naturally occurs in the body. Despite that, the hyaluron pen is not what you are looking for when it comes to a perfect pout. Don’t be fooled by the misinformation out there. 

What is a Hyaluron Pen

The hyaluron pen was actually created for people with diabetes. Without using needles, it allowed insulin into the subcutaneous tissue. It creates a pressure against the skin so the hyaluronic acid is forced into the skin without a true injection. And while, yes, it was meant to do that with insulin. It was never intended to do thatwith hyaluronic acid to your lips. It’s also not approved by the FDA for those purposes. 

What Can Go Wrong With a Hyaluron Pen

Since the hyaluron pen is not FDA approved, here are more than a few reasons why it’s also a bad idea: For starters, it can cause skin stains, abscesses and inflammation. And if that’s not bad enough, in truly bad instances, it’s caused bacterial and fungal infections from contaminated devices. Don’t even think about sharing it because doing so can result in disease. Would you try injecting fillers yourself? No. So why would you try something like this by yourself? You can’t purchase fillers yourself because a trained professional needs to apply them. Proper fillers need to be done by a trained professional. You’ll also notice trained professionals don’t use the pen. Because it isn’t safe or effective. 

Injections Over the Pen

If lip injections are what you are looking for, trust an expert, like myself, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co. Trying to inject over a hyaluron pen can be very tricky, which makes the desired results harder to achieve. Don’t try and take a shortcut and then get stuck having to live with a quick fix gone wrong. If injections aren’t in your budget, save up for them. It’s never a better idea to take a procedure into your own hands. Trust a trained professional and do it the right and safe way.

If you’re looking to define your profile, consider a consultation with Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner.

The Most Celeb-Inspired Procedures

Celebs, they influence so much of our lives: from what we watch to what we wear. They even influence what we request at our injector. Lips, cheeks, jawlines—celeb faces are helping shape our own. I, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, am here to help you find the best look for your face. But if you’re feeling inspired by something a celeb has recently done, we can take that inspiration and see how we can make it work with your own features. And, in case you are wondering, these are the most request celeb looks, for her—and him.

When it comes to lips, the most requested celeb lips are exactly what you would expect. At the top of the list is Scarlett Johansson. And why shouldn’t she be? Her pout is perfect. Her top and bottom lip are perfectly in proportion, giving her a pout that’s enviable. And obtainable, thanks to products like Kysse. Next on the list, Angelina Jolie. Her lips have been the envy of guys and girls for decades. When she first popped on the scene, so did her lips. Are they natural? We’re guessing they are. But that isn’t to say she hasn’t plumped them over time. The third most requested celeb lip shape is Christina Aguiera. Her pout popped up at the 2017 American Music Awards and they have been a hit since. Nude or red, they are as popular today as they were the day they made that debut. If you’re interested in plumping your lips, book a consultation with Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner. 

When it comes to cheeks, celebs are also setting the standard. At the top of the list for most requested cheeks is January Jones. Her cheekbone structure started making waves when she appeared on Mad Men. And who could overlook the perfect set of cheeks on Jennifer Garner? She popped up on the list as the second most requested celeb cheekbones. Lastly, Beyonce makes her mark as the third most requested celeb cheeks. Thanks to fillers, you, too, can help achieve a more defined set of cheekbones. Simply reach out to me, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, and I will happily help you determine what works best for your face.

Women aren’t the only ones who look to celebs for injection inspiration. Strong jawlines are among the most requested treatment by men and the celebs they are looking to include (at the top of the list) John Hamm, also from Mad Men. Johnny Depp’s jawline is the second most requested, and Robert Pattinson pops onto the list as the third most requested jawline for men. If you’re looking to define your profile, consider a consultation with Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner.

Pic from @scarlettjohanssonworld

Pic from @rumiyonce

Pic from @hamm.gramm

Facial Fillers: Facts vs Fictions

Last month, we touched on Botox myths. Turns out, there’s some confusion surrounding fillers, too. So, let me,  Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, step in yet again and set the facts straight on facial  fillers.

Myth No. 1:

Fillers Look Fake

Actually, fillers replace the volume we lose in our faces as we age. And, if done correctly by a skilled injector, like myself, it will not only look natural, it can rejuvenate your entire face. However, fillers can get a bad rap if they are overdone or put in the wrong place. The most important part of facial fillers is finding a good injector. 

Myth No. 2:

“I Can’t See the Difference”

Filler results can (and should be) subtle. It’s about looking rejuvenated—not redone. Yes, fillers work, but if you are on a budget, consider focusing on one area of the face, instead of spreading it around. You will see the results best.

Myth No. 3:

Filler if Forever

Actually, just like Botox, it’s not permanent. Most fillers (like Voluma, Restylane and Juvederm) are formulated with hyaluronic acid. The results can actually be reversed by injecting hyaluronidase into the filled areas if you aren’t happy with your results. This can be done within several days of your visit. 

Myth No. 4:

Fillers Hurt

Fillers, like Kysse and many others, are packaged with a numbing  solution in their formula. Additionally, topical numbing ointments can also offer injection site pain. Using needs with blunt tips are minimize the discomfort of fillers. Just like with Botox, fillers feel more like a pinch than anything. And you’ll be so thrilled with your results, you’ll understand it is well worth it. 

Myth No. 5:

Fillers Come With Bruising, Swelling and Lots of Down Time

Yes, bruising and swelling can happen, but it doesn’t have to keep you hidden inside for weeks. In fact, by avoiding blood thinners, using cool compresses, taking and applying arnica and avoiding laying flat, bruising and swelling can be avoided, therefore reducing down time. And any slight bruising of swelling that may occur, can most likely be covered with makeup. If downtime is your concern, give yourself at least 10 days before a major event. 

Myth No. 6:

Less is More

When it comes to price, absolutely not. With fillers, you get what you pay for when it comes to the injector. So, it’s best to go with a professional, like myself, Danielle Smith, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Miami botox and filler specialist at smith & co, to ensure you don’t wind up brusined, swollen and with lots of down time. Or worse, too much filler in the wrong place. There’s an art to filler. And good art isn’t cheap. And cheap art isn’t good.