BOTOX ® is arguably one of the most well-known methods for correcting glabellar lines, the wrinkles that form between the eyebrows over time as a result of aging. Its quick and relatively painless application and instant results have contributed to its popularity, to the point that BOTOX ® has become a household name.
BOTOX ® Background
BOTOX ® is a safe form of the botulinum neurotoxin. When injected under your skin into the deep dermis, the toxin paralyzes specific muscles temporarily. This prevents you from being able to easily make the facial expressions, such as frowning, that cause and worsen facial wrinkles. Repeat treatments are required every three to four months to maintain results.
BOTOX ® Cosmetic is indicated only for treating frown lines and is not applied to other areas of the face or body. It also doesn't fill in existing wrinkles, so if you have other problem areas on your face, you may wish to combine your BOTOX ® treatment with other treatments to rejuvenate your skin.
Dermal Fillers
Allergan Inc. of California is the company behind both Botox and Juvederm. Juvederm is a dermal filler based on hyaluronic acid (HA), which already occurs naturally in your skin. This acid is "cross-linked" to create a gel, which is then injected under the skin to fill in deeper wrinkles. Results can last up to a year. If you are looking to correct moderate wrinkles, Juvederm can be safely used in conjunction with Botox. For especially deep wrinkles, such as laugh lines on either side of the mouth, you may opt for Juvederm Ultra Plus.
Sculptra is another option for treating the nasolabial folds (laugh lines) and other facial wrinkles. Sculptra is made of poly-L-lactic acid, a synthetic material that your body can safely absorb. It treats wrinkles by encouraging your body to produce more collagen, which fills in wrinkles. Results are more subtle than those from BOTOX ® and typically take longer to appear, but they can last up to two years after the initial treatment.
Other dermal fillers can be safely used alongside Botox. Talk to your doctor about the best options for your skin and the results you wish to achieve.
Chemical Peels and Microdermabrasion
Chemical peels and Microdermabrasion are both applied to the surface of the skin to improve texture and pigmentation. Using different methods, peels and microdermabrasion both work to destroy skin on the surface and stimulate the growth of new, undamaged skin. These treatments may be good options for you if you have acne scarring or age spots on your face. They are commonly combined with Botox to achieve an overall youthful look.
Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty, also known as an eyelid lift, is a surgical procedure used to treat drooping eyelids. Drooping or sagging happens naturally as you age, but can also be something you are born with or caused by other medical conditions. It is an outpatient procedure, and its results are often permanent. A blepharoplasty alone will not treat all wrinkles around the eyes. Using Botox in addition to an eyelid lift can dramatically improve the appearance of the area around your eyes and brows.
