Which Skin Products Amplify the Results from BOTOX®?

If you’re thinking of getting BOTOX®, you’re not alone. Neuromodulator injections are most frequently performed in the last part of the year, and they’re a popular choice among patients who want to look their best for the holiday season. If you’re getting BOTOX®, Naples-based Skin Wellness Physicians recommends combining it with a great skincare routine at home to maximize the skin-smoothing results.

It is safe to pair BOTOX® with topical products because they work on different parts of the face. Neuromodulators work by preventing signals from reaching specific facial muscles and telling them to contract. Keeping the muscles at rest means wrinkles on the surface are less visible. Topical products improve the uppermost skin layer itself. Both types of treatments are used to reduce wrinkles, but botulinum toxin type A is injected directly into the muscle layer directly below the skin, while topical skin products are added to the outer layer or epidermis of the skin. Continue reading for some common skin products that combine well with BOTOX®.

Tretinoin

Every month, your skin goes through a skin cell renewal process that involves removing dead skin cells, allowing new skin to grow in their place. As we age, however, skin cell renewal begins to slow, and this can often lead to dull, dry skin, clogged pores, and more prominent wrinkles. Tretinoin is a retinoid—a vitamin A derivative—that is proven to reduce wrinkles by enhancing the structure of the skin. Tretinoin accelerates skin cell turnover so that new cells can be produced more quickly while also triggering the production of new collagen. This makes your skin look younger, brighter, and less wrinkled. While it is safe to use this chemical with BOTOX® for anti-aging purposes, just remember to let your injector know that you use tretinoin. You may be advised to hold off on using it for a few days before your appointment.

Sunscreens

Neuromodulators inhibit the development of wrinkles in the skin, but to protect tone, pigment, and texture, you also need to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher. Sunscreen blocks out harmful UV rays to prevent numerous other skin issues, including hyperpigmentation, loss of elasticity, and wrinkles caused by damage to collagen fibers. You need to wear sunscreen every day, even if you’re spending a lot of your time indoors.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are powerhouse ingredients that can have transformative effects on your skin. Even though quality sunscreens block out most UV rays, there’s still a tiny percentage that get through and cause harm. That’s why antioxidants such as vitamin C are so important in your skincare routine. They provide protection from and repair oxidative free radical damage as it is taking place. Vitamin C brightens and firms the skin.

Moisturizers

If you’re having injectable wrinkle treatments, consider upgrading your moisturizing routine for a few months. Wrinkles tend to look more obvious on dry and flaky skin. Keeping your skin hydrated will maximize the smoothing effects from neuromodulators. If you want more supple skin, give it a hydration boost with potent moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which are humectants that pull in water from the air and the deeper layers of the skin.

Peptides

Use serums and eye creams that are packed with peptides. Peptides are ingredients that also increase the generation of collagen and elastin, which is so important for improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Not to mention, peptides strengthen the skin barrier so that your skin is better protected against pollutants from the environment, UV rays, bacteria, poor sleep, cigarette smoke, and other toxins. Peptides decrease inflammation and have antimicrobial properties that make them beneficial for acne.

Call Skin Wellness Physicians at (239) 732-0044 or fill out a contact form to request an appointment if you’re ready to learn more about BOTOX® and other cosmetic skin treatments to make your skin look fresher and smoother.