As we age, fine lines and wrinkles tend to appear on our faces. We also tend to lose fullness in our faces as we age, so sunken areas can form on the face. Facials and skin care routines can help minimize the appearance of these imperfections. However, over time, even they won’t help erase the signs of aging. That is when you have to consider other options to improve your overall look.
Botox
Botox is onobotulinumtoxinA, which is a purified form of botulinum toxin that is produced by bacteria. Botox blocks certain chemical signals from nerves. Most of the signals that it blocks cause muscles to contract. The end result will cause the muscles to relax and freeze. This process causes stops repetitive facial movements from causing more deep lines. This injection usually lasts about three to six months and results usually occur one to three days after the first injection. Note that Botox has been FDA approved since 2002. It is purified in a controlled laboratory setting. Side effects of this drug are often mild, including bruising, eyelid droops, and a temporary headache can occur. Cosmetic side effects include a frozen forehead that doesn’t move at all, one eyebrow popping up too much, eyelid drooping, and eyebrows looking hooded.
Fillers
The most common fillers are made from hyaluronic acid or collagen and even some synthetic fillers. There are even fillers that can be made from your own fat from other areas and plasma. Autologous wrinkle fillers, with products from your own body, do not require FDA approval. All of these fillers can increase the volume in your face and fill the deep lines and wrinkles. Fillers can last a few months to year depending on the type of the filler used. The treatment is fast and easy, but some side effects can cause allergic reactions, discoloration, bruising, and tiny bumps under the injection site.
How to Choose
Some people think that Botox and fillers may be the best options to improve their skin. However, if you are suffering from a dull complexion, uneven skin tone, or large pores, dermal fillers and Botox are not for you. You need to ensure that you are looking for an improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, and decreased volume in the face. Botox is the better option for dynamic wrinkles that occur when the face is in motion or making an expression. Fillers are the better option for static wrinkles, which are visible even when your face is relaxed. If you are displaying sunken skin or deep indentions, fillers can fill this space and provide a more youthful experience.
Regardless of the type of cosmetic enhancement you choose, make sure to do your research and select a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon that is certified and willing to go over all of the details and concerns you may have. Do not take shortcuts or purchase discounted products. Both of these treatments are highly capable of giving you the youthful appearance you desire.