Both Botox® injections and dermal facial fillers can work wonders on aging skin. Although the mechanisms by which they work are slightly different, both produce the same results. They decrease the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, leaving your face significantly smoother, softer, and more rejuvenated, while also drawing out your natural beauty.
Botox Injections -vs- The Sun
There is a common misconception that sun exposure will negate the positive effects of Botox injections. Although direct and excessive exposure to UVA and UVB light can increase the intensity of any injection site side-effects that are already occurring, it will not impact the overall effectiveness of the treatment itself. The side-effects of receiving Botox skin treatments are generally quite short-lived. They include swelling, bruising, tenderness, itching, and discoloration around the injection site. As noted, these temporary effects can be further aggravated by sun exposure, yet the sun doesn’t seem to affect your ultimate results. Keep in mind however, most cosmetic and facial plastic surgeons will recommend NOT exposing your skin to direct sunlight immediately after a treatment as to avoid further aggravation of the side effects you’ll experience after Botox injections.
Botox -vs- Dermal Facial Fillers
In comparison to Botox injections, which work by relaxing the muscles responsible for producing wrinkles and fine lines, facial fillers like Juvederm® work by binding and absorbing water beneath the skin. They are composed of a smooth hyaluronic acid gel that is designed to mimic the effects of the natural hyaluronic acid found in the human body. As people age, their reserves of this important acid begin to diminish; thus, explaining the reason for increased wrinkles. As this occurs, lines and folds become more pronounced. Replenishing your store of hyaluronic acid beneath the skin temporarily negates these unwanted effects.
One treatment of Botox can be expected to produce noticeable results for around three months. Juvederm and other hyaluronic acid-based dermal facial fillers need only be applied once a year. As with Botox, there is no evidence to suggest that sun exposure has a lasting impact on the treatment's effectiveness. It's also important to note that although UVA and UVB light do not noticeably impact the effectiveness of the treatment, they do play a significant role in causing the underlying problems of wrinkles and fine lines.
Facial Fillers -vs- The Sun
Patients receiving facial injections should play it safe and be sure to wear a high SPF sunscreen whenever they plan on being outside for prolonged periods of time. Unlike Botox, sun exposure does and can impact the effectiveness of your dermal filler treatments. Remember that UVA and UVB light also penetrates through glass, so be sure to plan accordingly for long car rides.
Do you have a question that hasn't been answered here, or need to schedule an appointment? Contact Dr. Bradford Patt of Houston Center for Facial Plastic Surgery to learn more about all their invasive and noninvasive cosmetic procedures. Call (281) 649-7170, or schedule your consultation online now!
