When you spend your time, effort, and money on skin treatments like Botox or dermal fillers, you want to be sure that you are going to be able to make your results worthwhile. At Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery, we also know that you are going to love your results so much that you will want to make sure your skin remains wrinkle-free for as long as possible.
While injectables are temporary, typically lasting around six to nine months, depending on the treatment, they come with very few complications and side effects, which means they pair well with skin care techniques that can make your results even better and longer-lasting. We encourage our injectable clients to use the right products and techniques to enhance the anti-aging effects of Botox or fillers and to protect their skin from further harm, both of which can ensure that you will still feel confident in your skin even after your results begin to fade.
Injectables and proper skin care can help maintain your natural beauty and enhance your skin quality, supporting a youthful and vibrant appearance. Certain treatments and skincare routines can also stimulate collagen production, which supports long-term skin firmness and elasticity.
All About Injectables
Injectable treatments have revolutionized the world of aesthetic medicine, offering a way to achieve a refreshed, youthful look with minimal downtime. Whether you’re considering Botox to relax facial muscles and smooth dynamic wrinkles, or dermal fillers containing hyaluronic acid to restore facial volume and enhance facial contours, these procedures can deliver natural-looking results that boost your confidence. The key to maximizing the benefits of injectable treatments lies not only in the procedure itself, but also in how you care for your skin before and after your appointment. Protecting your skin from sun exposure, keeping your skin hydrated, and avoiding strenuous exercise or excessive facial movements in the days following your treatment are all essential steps. With the right post-treatment care, you can help your injectables settle properly and enjoy smoother, more radiant skin for longer.
Pre-Treatment Preparation
Getting the most out of your injectable treatment starts well before you step into the clinic. In the week leading up to your appointment, it’s important to avoid facial treatments such as chemical peels, which can temporarily compromise your skin barrier and affect how your skin heals. You should also steer clear of medications and supplements that can increase blood flow, such as vitamin C, as well as alcohol and smoking, since these can negatively impact skin health and slow the healing process.
Instead, focus on nourishing your body with a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids to support skin elasticity and overall health. Taking these steps at least a week before your injectable treatment can help ensure your skin is in its best possible condition, setting the stage for optimal results. Finally, always choose a qualified and experienced practitioner, as their expertise is crucial for both your safety and the quality of your outcome.
Be Gentle With Your Skin
Here are some aftercare tips for injectables to help your skin heal and achieve the best results.
As your skin adjusts to your injectables over your first few days after treatment, it is a good idea to avoid harsh products in your skincare routine like physical exfoliants or drying face masks. You do not want to constrict or roughen your skin, especially while your injectable is still settling into its place. This will also depend on the type of injectable treatment you receive. Most plastic surgeons agree that after one to two hours post-Botox treatment, you can resume all normal skincare activities.
However, some dermal fillers can leave your skin feeling sensitive and even slightly bruised for your first day or two, so you should be sure to avoid rubbing or pressing on the injection site to ensure you do not cause yourself any pain or discomfort. Gentle care during this period helps minimize the risk of adverse reactions.
Allow your dermal fillers to settle in fully before adding scrubs and massage oils back to your skincare regimen. For the first night or two, avoid sleeping on your face and keep your head elevated to prevent migration and swelling.
When choosing products to use post-treatment, opt for those with anti inflammatory properties to soothe and protect the skin while promoting recovery.
Keep Up Your Anti-Aging Routine
Skincare products with ingredients like Vitamin A (Tretinoin or Retin-A) and Vitamin C are excellent options to maximize the results from Botox or fillers. If you already use anti-aging products, they likely contain one of these ingredients, known for their wrinkle-reducing and brightening properties. Vitamins A and C are very popular in modern skin care. You can continue to use these products as you usually do, or you can talk with your plastic surgeon or dermatologist about particular brands with these ingredients that they recommend. Vitamin A treatments can be a little harsh on your skin if you have never used them before, so be sure to consult with your surgeon before using one immediately after having injectable treatments. Vitamin C is usually a very gentle and moisturizing option, though, so adding a serum or cream with this ingredient is encouraged following Botox or fillers.
In addition, consider incorporating a hydrating serum into your routine to provide intense hydration and support skin recovery after treatments. Proper hydration, both by using hydrating skincare products and drinking plenty of water, is essential to maximize and prolong the results of your injectables.
Protect Your Skin From Sun Exposure
It is important to protect your post treatment skin to aid healing, support recovery, and maintain the results of your cosmetic procedures. Protecting your skin from the elements is the best way you can reduce and prevent skin concerns like wrinkles, dark spots, and dryness.
Sun exposure is guaranteed to make the results of your injectables wear off faster, or cause further damage to your skin that your treatments cannot hide. Sunscreen should be an essential part of your skincare routine every day, even if it is cloudy or you will not be spending much time outside. UV rays can reach and damage your skin even if you do not get a sunburn or a tan, leaving your skin and structural proteins vulnerable to a host of problems like hyperpigmentation and collapse.
After your procedure, avoid activities that increase your body temperature, such as saunas, hot tubs, or hot yoga, as elevated body temperature can increase swelling, bruising, or affect the results of your injectables. You should also be sure to use a high-quality occlusive moisturizer in colder, windier climates to keep your skin hydrated and protected from physical damage like chapping or windburn. Ingredients like silicones and shea butter form a barrier over your skin to trap moisture inside and keep the air from chafing at your face.
Contact Us Today
At Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery, we are committed to making sure you have all the information you need to make the most of your treatments with us, whether you choose a simple injectable or a full cosmetic surgery. To learn more about the services we offer at our Coralville and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, offices, contact us today at 319-220-4644 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Andrews.
For further skin rejuvenation, laser treatments such as Moxi or BBL can be considered, but should be scheduled at the appropriate time after injectable procedures to optimize results and minimize risks.
