Prolonging the Life of Your Botox and Filler During Stay at Home

First, let me start by stating that there are no truly proven methods to prolong the life of your Botox and Filler, but there are some variables that may lead to earlier metabolism of these products. 

Botox and Dysport

The one variable that is a certainty when it comes to the longevity of Botox or Dysport actually lies with the injector.  The duration of its effectiveness is related to the dosage administered.  If you are under-dosed for a certain muscle group of the face, the wrinkles formed by these muscles will return more quickly.  This is why it is imperative you seek an experienced injector and continue to see them as they know your dosage for each muscle group and what works for you.  In addition, some injectors have found that Dysport may last about 1 week longer than Botox, especially in the Crow’s feet.

High impact exercise may impact the longevity of your Botox/Dysport as well.  Some of Dr. Funk’s patients who intensely exercise each day may need to come in more frequently for their injections and also need touch-ups more often for areas that were not effectively treated.  This is not a recommendation for completely stopping your exercise routine.  During this time, it is imperative that we maintain our well-being – both physical and mental.  Exercise can help with this.   Perhaps simply dialing down the intensity will help prolong your injection.

Hydration is probably one of the most important things to maintain after your injections.  Utilizing a good moisturizer daily and a hyaluronic acid gel is essential for keeping well-hydrated skin.  Drinking plenty of fluids, eating nutritious fruits and vegetables and minimizing alcohol and coffee intake will also help keep your skin plump and hydrated.

Crow’s feet can be especially accentuated when squinting.  Wearing sunglasses when outside is important to avoid this and help prolong the effects of Botox or Dysport in this area.  Sunscreen is essential to keep your skin protected from harmful UV rays that can worsen wrinkles and age your skin.  Avoid smoking as this can increase those vertical wrinkles around your lips. 

Fillers

Different types of fillers will have different life spans. Some may only last 6 months while other can last up to 2 years. The location where we place these fillers and positioning of them will also impact their longevity. 

Filler usually lasts a little longer than the time designated by the manufacturers.  This is especially true for areas where it is injected deeper such as the under eyes or tear troughs and the cheeks.  These are also areas with limited movement and therefore this decreases the metabolism of the product. 

Hydration is again an important factor with filler longevity.  When you keep your skin well hydrated with the previously mentioned techniques, this creates a plump appearance to your skin.  Keep your lips hydrated with lip balm to keep them looking like plump grapes and not like wrinkled raisins. 

Good nutrition is always essential for keeping your skin looking plump and healthy.  Increasing your leafy greens and foods high in good omega fats such as fish and nuts will help with the appearance of your skin.  Sleep is a key ingredient to maintain healthy skin as well.  When you sleep, this is your body’s opportunity to repair tissues including the skin.