Botox, an FDA-approved cosmetic treatment, can help maintain a youthful complexion when combined with regular skin care at home. Botox for smile lines can help reduce the visible signs of aging on our skin, giving you a more refreshed and youthful facial appearance.
Here’s more about Botox for smile lines:
Why Do I Have Smile Lines?
Most everyone develops crow’s feet at the corners of the eyes, as well as other smile lines over time. As we age, skin loses elasticity and begins to thin.
Additionally, repetitive facial movements, such as smiling or frowning, contribute to these lines. It may seem like there’s no escape from aging and its effects on the skin. However, incorporating Botox with a sensible skincare routine at home can minimize the appearance of smile lines.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox injectables work by temporarily paralyzing muscles which cause dynamic wrinkles (lines which form due to the movement of certain facial muscles). These intradermal injections contain a purified form of botulism toxin.
In small doses, the toxin blocks nerve signals to the muscles and limits their contraction. The result is smoother skin and a noticeable softening of fine lines, wrinkles and creases.
The Benefits of Botox
Apart from reducing the appearance of smile lines, Botox has other skin benefits. It improves overall skin texture by relaxing tense muscles for a more refreshed facial appearance. Additionally, Botox can prevent new wrinkles from forming.
How to Use Botox Injectables
Usually, Botox is administered in small doses injected into specific facial muscles. The procedure is quick and relatively painless, with next to no downtime afterwards.
Your highly trained injector at our clinic performs the procedure in just minutes. Most people return to work or home to resume their usual daily routines right away.
What to Do After Receiving Your Botox Treatment
The first 24 to 48 hours after receiving your Botox injections are critical. Be sure to stay out of direct sun. Avoid excessive sweating as may happen with strenuous labor or exercising at the gym.
Also, if you experience redness and itching at the injection sites, do not scratch or rub the areas. Sleep on your back instead of your side. This way, you will avoid putting pressure on your face (especially the injected areas).
What Other Kind of Skin Care Can I Use Along with Botox?
In addition to Botox, your provider may recommend the following skin care elements. These products, used between your Botox treatments, can enhance your results and improve the health of your skin.
Retinoids
These are vitamin A derivatives which stimulate collagen production. They also promote cell turnover, resulting in smoother, more youthful-looking skin.
Hyaluronic Acid
This natural substance hydrates the skin and gives it a plumper, smoother appearance. When used with Botox, it can improve the overall texture and skin tone.
Antioxidants
Products containing antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, protect the skin from free radicals and environmental damage. Antioxidants also promote collagen production.
At our wellness clinic in The Woodlands, TX, we offer nutritional counseling and customized supplement protocols from Metagenics. We can recommend the diet and supplements which will improve your overall wellness, weight loss goals, energy and youthful appearance you want for your skin.
Sunscreen
Always protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Sunscreen with a SPF, or sun protection factor, of 30 or higher generally delivers the coverage you need. Apply it to your face and other exposed areas of skin, such as your arms, legs and upper chest.
Some Final Skincare Tips
Smile lines, forehead wrinkles and other signs of aging and sun damage are, to some degree, inevitable. However, if you work with your Botox provider to develop a care plan suited to your needs, you can have a more youthful facial appearance.
Also, be sure to:
- Stay well-hydrated
- Eat a healthy diet
- Minimize alcohol and caffeine intake as both tend to dry the skin
- Exercise regularly
- Stop smoking
Botox For Smile Lines in The Woodlands, TX
At Family Weight & Wellness Clinic And Medi-spa, Dr. Larry Richardson and his team deliver evidence-based esthetic skin treatments. We also offer weight loss and management strategies, wellness and nutritional counseling and more. Botox injectables are one of our most sought-after treatments.
To learn more about Botox, smile lines and other kinds of skin care, call us for an in-person consultation at (281) 292-2300. You also may request a visit here. We look forward to seeing you in our clinic soon.
