Hey everyone! It’s Trina Renea, your go-to master esthetician and co-host of the Facially Conscious Podcast. This week, we enjoyed chatting with Dr. Alexander Rivkin, a renowned dermatologist and founder of Rivkin Aesthetic in Los Angeles. Known for his innovative techniques and non-surgical approaches to beauty, Dr. Rivkin brought his expertise to our show to discuss the latest injection trends, myths, and industry secrets. You can also catch him in the episode Bella Fill and Other Nose Enhancements: What You Need to Know, featuring Dr. Alexander Rivkin and Dr. Brandyn Dunn.
If you’re as curious about fillers, skin boosters, and bio-stimulatory treatments as I am, you’re in for a treat! Here are some highlights from this insightful episode.
The Ever-Changing World of Fillers
Dr. Rivkin kicked things off by highlighting just how crowded and competitive the filler market has become. With new products emerging constantly, it’s hard to keep up with what’s FDA-approved, what works, and what’s just hype. We touched on Profhilo, a filler gaining popularity for its skin-boosting effects. Dr. Rivkin admitted to Googling it just before the show—proof that even top experts must stay on their toes in this fast-paced industry.
The consensus? While Profhilo and similar products offer short-term benefits, such as “glassy” skin, they’re not transformative. Clients usually seek more substantial changes, like addressing hollows or restoring youthful proportions.
The Magic of Proportion
One of the most fascinating parts of our chat was Dr. Rivkin’s explanation of facial proportion and youth. Our faces lose their youthful oval shape as we age, with volume shifting downward and creating a more square appearance. According to Dr. Rivkin, fillers can work wonders by subtly restoring this shape, drawing attention back to the eyes and away from jowls or lax skin.
But here’s the key: less is more. Overdoing it leads to unnatural results. As Dr. Rivkin put it, “The devil’s in the details.” That’s why finding a skilled injector—what I like to call a “face sculptor”—is essential.
Social Media Myths and Misinformation
We also explored how social media shapes public perceptions of aesthetics. Alarmist posts about under-eye fillers “migrating” or causing lymphatic blockages can scare people away from perfectly safe and effective treatments. Dr. Rivkin clarified that migration is rare and often misunderstood. Fillers don’t travel like a “race car” through your face (his analogy made us laugh). Instead, they may absorb water over time or shift slightly due to muscle movement.
Pro tip: Always consult with an experienced injector who can adjust treatments if necessary. And beware of bargain-basement deals—your face deserves better than Groupon-level care!
The Fat Transfer Debate
We couldn’t resist asking about fat transfer, a procedure gaining traction as an alternative to fillers. At the same time, it sounds appealing—using your body’s own fat—Dr. Rivkin highlighted some drawbacks. The unpredictability of fat absorption and the inability to dissolve or adjust it makes it less reliable than fillers. Plus, fat cells are metabolically active, meaning they can grow if you gain weight.
For significant volume loss, Dr. Rivkin often recommends Sculptra, a biostimulatory filler that encourages collagen production. This more predictable and reversible option is ideal for clients who want a natural look.
Bio-Stimulatory Treatments and Emerging Trends
Speaking of Sculptra, bio-stimulatory treatments are an exciting area in aesthetics. Unlike traditional fillers, these injectables stimulate your skin to produce its own collagen, offering longer-lasting results. Along with Sculptra, diluted Radiesse is another standout in this category.
However, Dr. Rivkin cautioned against falling for every new product, claiming to be a game-changer. Many hyped treatments—like certain PRP or PRF injectables—fail to deliver significant results. As with any trend, research and reputable practitioners are key.
Threads and the Pre-Facelift Trend
Another hot topic is threads, dissolvable devices used to lift sagging skin. While some practitioners love them, Dr. Rivkin is skeptical about their effectiveness and longevity. For many clients, threads serve as a “pre-facelift” option, but the results often last only 9-12 months.
For those considering a facelift in their 30s (yes, it’s a trend!), Dr. Rivkin advised against it unless there’s a compelling reason, like severe skin laxity. Prevention is important, but surgery isn’t the answer for everyone.
Skincare Secrets: Retinol and Pavise
Of course, we couldn’t let Dr. Rivkin leave without sharing his personal skincare routine. His top pick? Prescription-strength retinol—a classic for a reason! He also raved about Pavise, an all-in-one product he uses daily. Not only does it offer long-lasting sun protection, but it leaves your skin feeling smooth and glossy.
Final Thoughts
This episode was a goldmine of information, reminding us why staying informed is so important in the ever-evolving world of skincare and aesthetics. Whether you’re curious about fillers, contemplating a new treatment, or just looking for trustworthy skincare advice, remember to prioritize quality and expertise.
Huge thanks to Dr. Rivkin for sharing his wisdom and humor with us! If you missed the episode or want to explore any of these topics further, visit our website at FaciallyConscious.com.
Until next time, stay beautiful and confident!
—Trina Renea
