Grading Aesthetic Procedures by Permanence

This system ranks aesthetic treatments from Grade 5 (Permanent) to Grade 1 (Least Permanent) to help guide choices based on longevity and effectiveness.

🌟 Grade 5 – Permanent (Irreversible)

• Characteristics: Results last forever or require surgery to reverse.
• Examples:
  • Surgical Procedures (Facelift, Rhinoplasty, Liposuction, Fat Grafting)
  • Deep Ablative CO₂ Laser Resurfacing (permanent skin texture changes)
  • Subcision for Acne Scars (collagen remodeling is permanent)
  • Tattooing & Microblading (though some fading occurs)
  • Lip Lift / Buccal Fat Removal (permanent contour change)

💎 Grade 4 – Semi-Permanent (5+ Years, Long-Lasting)

• Characteristics: Lasts several years but may require minimal touch-ups.
• Examples:
  • Sculptra (Poly-L-Lactic Acid Filler) (collagen stimulation for 2–5 years)
  • Deep Chemical Peels (Phenol Peels) (long-term skin renewal, 5+ years)
  • Long-Lasting Laser Treatments (Fraxel, RF Microneedling, Light CO₂ Peels)
  • Thread Lifts (PDO or PLLA, lasting up to 3 years)

✨ Grade 3 – Medium-Term (1–3 Years, Noticeable Longevity)

• Characteristics: Significant results, but maintenance is needed every 1–3 years.
• Examples:
  • Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero) (6–24 months)
  • Botox/Dysport/Xeomin (3–6 months, but long-term muscle atrophy can make effects last longer)
  • Microneedling with PRP or Exosomes (stimulates collagen for 1+ years)
  • Non-Ablative Laser Treatments (PicoSure, IPL, Nd:YAG for pigment & vascular issues)
  • Morpheus8 / RF Microneedling (tightening for 1–3 years)

⚡ Grade 2 – Short-Term (3–12 Months, Requires Regular Maintenance)

• Characteristics: Works well but needs consistent touch-ups.
• Examples:
  • Hydrafacial / AquaGold / BB Glow (instant glow, lasts weeks to months)
  • Mild to Medium Chemical Peels (TCA, Jessner’s Peel, Glycolic Peels) (1–6 months)
  • Lymphatic Drainage & Facial Massages (temporary depuffing)
  • Skin Boosters (Profhilo, Jalupro, NCTF 135HA) (hydration boost for 3–6 months)
  • Fat Dissolving Injections (Aqualyx, Kybella) (results depend on number of sessions but can be semi-permanent)

🚫 Grade 1 – Least Permanent (Days to Weeks, Minimal Effect)

• Characteristics: Superficial results, wears off quickly, requiring frequent reapplication.
• Examples:
  • OTC Skincare Serums & Moisturizers (hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C)
  • Facials & Salon Treatments (basic facials, LED therapy, dermaplaning)
  • Cryotherapy / Ice Rollers (temporary tightening, lasts hours to days)
  • At-Home Peels & Exfoliation (glow lasts a few days)
  • Makeup & Tinted Sunscreen (BB Creams, Foundations, Color Correctors)

Conclusion: Why Stick to Grade 2 and Above?

• Grade 1 (OTC skincare & salon facials) offers little to no long-term benefits and requires constant maintenance.
• Grade 2+ treatments actually stimulate biological changes, collagen production, or deep hydration for lasting improvements.
• For serious anti-aging and aesthetic results, aim for Grade 3 and above.