As we age, our skin naturally loses collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin. This results in the loss of skin elasticity and adds to the appearance of wrinkles. There is help out there to counteract the normal progression of aging skin.
Botox® is Basic
Botox, or botulinum toxin type A, is the most common cosmetic drug. The injection, which is Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved, is used to block the nerves in the muscles just under the skin (most often targeted to the area between the eyebrows). It is very effective on laugh lines and crow’s feet. When Botox is injected, the muscle activity in the treated area is minimized and deep facial lines are reduced. The full benefit of Botox is seen about one week after the injections and the benefits last for three to eight months.
What Else is out There?
While Botox has become a common trend in cosmetic procedures, there are other alternatives to consider achieving smoother, younger skin. Injectable fillers are used to fill fine lines and wrinkles. They smooth out wrinkles by bulking up the underlying tissue.
Restylane® Works
Restylane is a dermal filler that is used as an effective alternative to Botox. Restylane works differently than Botox in that it does not affect the muscles. Rather, it evens out wrinkles and fills crevices. It works by holding water within the layers of skin. Hyaluronic acid is the basic component of this injectable cosmetic treatment. Since hyaluronic acid naturally occurs in the body, there is only a small risk of experiencing any adverse reaction to it. Restylane is FDA approved and the results last for up to one year or longer.
Juvederm® is an Option
Juvederm is another dermal filler made of hyaluronic acid, which fills in wrinkles, plumps lips and treats under eye circles and acne scars. It works by plumping up weak and deteriorating skin tissue. This cosmetic treatment is FDA approved and the effects last anywhere from six months up to a year.
Perlane® is a Good Choice
Another popular dermal filler, Perlane is a gel-type hyaluronic filler that bonds to skin tissue and plumps up the skin's appearance. The cosmetic benefits of Perlane are alleged to last a little longer than Restylane because of its higher concentration of hyaluronic acid gel.
Radiesse® is Effective
Radiesse is a dermal filler that plumps skin but, more importantly, encourages new collagen production. It can be used for lip augmentation, cheek enhancement, filling deep wrinkles, chin contouring and jaw contouring.
Radiesse is the longest-lasting dermal filler currently on the market. The enhancing effects are enjoyed for two to five years versus only a few months with other products.
The Choice is Yours
There are many cosmetic drug choices that offer results that are similar to those of Botox. Discussing the viable options with a qualified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon will help you select the best drug or treatment to attain your desired result.
