
Q&A
Dermatologist
What’s the difference between neurotoxin and fillers, and how do I know which one is right for me?
Neurotoxins, like Botox and Dysport, relax muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles, frown lines, and crow’s feet. Fillers restore lost volume in areas like the cheeks, lips, and under eyes. With over 25 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology, I specialize in the “Liquid Lift,” which combines both for natural-looking rejuvenation without surgery. During your consultation at Hopkins Dermatology, I create a personalized plan based on your facial anatomy, expression patterns, and aesthetic goals. The right treatment is always the one tailored to you.
I’ve heard about biostimulators like Sculptra. How do they work and are they better than fillers?
Sculptra made of a particle called poly-L lactic acid was first FDA approved in the early 2000s to treat facial volume loss. This injectable is referred to as a bio-stimulant because it stimulates your own collagen production over time, improving skin firmness and facial volume gradually and naturally. Unlike traditional fillers that provide instant volume, Sculptra’s results build over four to six weeks, often with a series of injection sessions and results that last up to two years. I’ve been injecting Sculptra to contour my patients’ facial features since its initial indication. I often recommend it for patients looking for long-term skin-quality improvements and facial balance in what I call “framing the face.” Sculptra is also injected in areas of the body for treating cellulite dimples, skin laxity above the knees, and buttocks contouring.
What makes Hopkins Dermatology’s laser treatments different?
I use advanced, innovative laser technology backed by scientific studies to rejuvenate patients’ skin customized to their skin type, concerns, and downtime tolerance. With over two decades of experience, I combine fractionated resurfacing, collagen-stimulating lasers, and gentle toning options to create safe, effective treatment plans. Using Fotona laser technology, I provide patients with international treatment options and cutting-edge-based laser physics. My protocols focus on skin health, not just surface results, which leads to longer-lasting, natural-looking rejuvenation. My career outside of the clinic is teaching and lecturing on many of these advanced laser protocols.
What is IGSRT and who is it for?
IGSRT (Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy) is a non-surgical treatment I offer for non-melanoma skin cancer, especially for patients who aren’t ideal surgical candidates or prefer a non-invasive, non-surgical approach. Using high-resolution ultrasound, I precisely map and treat the cancer while preserving surrounding healthy tissue. With over 1,200 skin cancers treated successfully in my practices, IGSRT has changed the landscape of care for my patients. It’s ideal for delicate areas like the face, legs, or for those on blood thinners or with multiple lesions.
As one of only 2% of dermatologists in the U.S. offering this treatment, I’ve had the honor of lecturing at international medical meetings to educate other physicians on this technology. I also serve on a guidelines of care committee with other dermatologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists to provide best practice and best outcomes for patients.
About The Expert

Janine Hopkins, MD, FAAD
Hopkins Dermatology
Dr. Janine Hopkins is an American Board of Dermatology certified physician in practice since 1996. She’s an international educator and speaker, inventor of CuraCator, a medical device designed
to improve safety and control for patients and clinicians applying therapeutic products to skin, and founder of Trinnovations, LLC, a medical device development company.
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