Botox and Dermal Filler are the top two anti-aging treatments in my medical aesthetics clinic. Besides removing wrinkles fine lines and improving volume loss, these treatments can be used to treat migraines, temporal mandibular joint pain that is caused from teeth grinding, and excessive sweating.
As we age, our skin loses elasticity because of a decrease in elastin and collagen production. Botox is a purified protein injected into the muscles that cause wrinkles. Botox relaxes the muscles, giving your face a refreshed appearance. Patients who receive Botox treatments, and follow the recommended dose provided by their experienced medical aesthetic provider can expect to see their results last up to four months. Other brands of Botulinum Toxin that are approved in Canada are Dysport, Xeomin, and Nuceiva.
Dermal fillers are Hyaluronic acid that are used to restore volume and contour the face. Results can last up to two years depending on the treatment area and the type of dermal filler that isused. A common misconception of dermal fillers is that they will freeze your face and look unnatural.
Variability in how long a patients Botox or Dermal filler treatment is partly due to differences in metabolism, dosages, and lifestyle habits. To maximize the duration of your Botox and Dermal Filler follow these three steps
Sun Protection
Sun exposure does not affect the metabolism or breakdown of Botox or dermal fillers. Ultraviolet rays from the sun accelerate premature aging in the skin by breaking down collagen and elastin fibres. This results in newer and earlier return of wrinkles and sagging in the skin.
I encourage my patients to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and antioxidants in their daily skin car routine. My absolute favourite sunscreen for the face is Vivier’s Mineral Tinted Sunscreen. It is a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB mineral tinted sunscreen that combines new ChromaTint™ technology, antioxidants, and extracts. This innovative new formula provides an instant natural and even glow, and easily melts into the skin. Added antioxidants/extracts provide added hydration and anti-aging benefits for complete sheer protection and it is ideal for all skin types, especially normal to dry skin.
Smoking Cessation
Smoking has been linked to shorter duration of results of Botox, Dermal Fillers, and Threadlifts. Smokers have earlier signs of aging compared to non- smokers. Smoking causes vasoconstriction, which reduces blood supply and nutrient delivery to the skin. The stress on the skin causes premature aging and wrinkles.
Exercise
Exercising immediately after Botox or dermal filler is discouraged for at least four hours. Tiring and strenuous physical exercise can displace the placement of the Botox away from the intended location of the face which could potentially lead to an undesirable result. To date there is no clinical evidence to suggest that exercise decreases the longevity of Botox. Anecdotally, among medical aesthetic providers there has been a trend that has noticed that patients who exercise excessively find that their results do not last quite as long.
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