From a facial to a chemical peel or Botox, there are dozens of beauty treatments on the market to help your skin retain a youthful glow.
Unfortunately, no minimally invasive cosmetic procedure lasts forever, with most treatments requiring 3-6 monthly top-ups. However, by educating yourself about the best aftercare practices for your skincare treatments, you can prolong the effects of your procedures.
Here is a list of 6 simple ways to make your beauty treatments last longer.
1. Choose a Reputable Clinic
Whether you’re getting light therapy, dermal fillers, or Botox, choosing a reputable clinic is vital. A skilled injector with Botox training they received in East Rutherford, for example, will be able to talk you through the best aftercare practices to get the most out of your procedure. A quick Google search and referrals from trusted friends can help you locate a reputable clinic near you.
Not only will a qualified injector or aesthetician be more experienced in aftercare and potential complications, but they will also be more equipped to create a treatment plan that’s tailored to your individual skin condition and concerns. This precision and personalization can help you achieve longer-lasting results.
2. Follow Aftercare Instructions
Every clinic and cosmetic procedure has slightly different aftercare regulations, so it’s important to discuss your individual recovery requirements with your clinician. Typically, after any kind of skin treatment, it’s recommended that you avoid direct sun exposure for at least 24-48 hours. Other aftercare tips include staying upright for at least 4 hours after treatment (to prevent migration of injectables) and avoiding any strenuous exercises.
Although short-term recommendations, like avoiding alcohol or skipping the gym, may seem tedious, it’s imperative that you follow these tips if you want your beauty treatments to last.
3. Use a Silk Pillowcase
Dynamic wrinkles, such as forehead or perioral lines, are created by repetitive movements. So, if your treatments are aimed at reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, you can extend the time between procedures by being gentle on your skin. Limit the unconscious tugging and dragging that occurs on your face during sleep by switching to a smooth, silk pillowcase. Silk pillowcases can also help the skin retain moisture, which is important for overall dermis quality and health.
4. Keep Hydrated
The human body is made up of around 60% water, so staying hydrated is key to maintaining good health. Not only is hydration vital for the body to perform core repair functions, such as cell regeneration, but it also plays a role in collagen production. Collagen is required for skin elasticity and fullness, which helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By avoiding dehydration, you can keep your collagen levels up and extend the time before more filler is needed to achieve a plumped-up look. Additionally, dehydrated skin is more prone to damage from harmful UV rays.
5) Avoid UV Exposure
Regardless of your hydration level, exposure to UV rays can cause significant damage to your skin, including skin cancer in severe cases. Even mild exposure to UV rays can accelerate the breakdown of vital skin proteins, leading to premature wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity. This means that the Botox or fillers you’ve received must work harder to maintain the tightness or fullness of the skin due to an overall decline in skin condition.
6) Overhaul Your Diet
Though there may not be an obvious connection between your diet and the longevity of your cosmetic treatments, your overall health plays a surprisingly significant role in how long your treatment results can last. By eating a balanced and nutrient-rich diet filled with antioxidants and vitamins, you can give your body the tools it needs to repair and protect your skin from free radicals. Conversely, a poor diet may result in an accelerated aging process and a greater requirement for Botox or fillers to tackle the signs of aging.
Diets that are high in sugar, trans fats, and carbohydrates, have also been known to trigger inflammation in some people. For Botox specifically, inflammation can cause the metabolism to break down the Botox toxin at a faster rate, reducing the efficacy and longevity of your treatment.
As you know, time and money are at a premium. By observing the 6 tips above, you can maximize the results of your beauty treatments while minimizing your time spent in the aesthetician’s chair.