Is Botox a good solution for fine lines and wrinkles?
We call them fine lines. However, most of us are not fine with them at all! That is why millions of people – including Dr. Jeanine Downie of image Dermatology in Montclair, NJ – turn to Botox. With just a few simple injections, it can smooth away those troublesome lines and superficial wrinkles.
Where did those lines come from?
Facial expressions involve complex muscle movements, which usually happen automatically due to nerve signals. In youth, the skin is supple and resilient, easily flexing along with muscles. However, skin becomes drier and less elastic with age, causing it to scrunch and fold with movement. First, you will notice lines appearing when you laugh, squint, or frown. Gradually they become etched in, remaining visible even when you relax your face.
How Botox works
Although it is called a wrinkle relaxer, Botox does not directly impact skin or even the muscles that lead to fine lines. Instead, it works on nerves, reducing the signals that they send to muscles. This reduces movement, in turn reducing the stretching and scrunching effect on the skin. There is a common myth that it paralyzes the face, but that is not accurate for a couple of reasons. The action of this product is:
- Localized – Botox only affects nerves precisely where it is injected. A skilled dermatologist such as Dr. Downie can easily discern what muscles are causing your lines and deliver treatment only where it is needed.
- Proportionate – A degree of relaxation is directly related to the size of the dose. Dr. Downie carefully chooses a dose large enough to relax problematic muscles, but small enough to preserve natural facial movement.
Are you ready for Botox?
The ideal time to start Botox is when you see lines appear each time you scowl but disappear when you relax. A common mistake many people make is waiting too long. Because everyone ages differently, the right time for Botox varies. Dr. Downie’s advice is to start Botox whenever you need it. She personally began using it at age 30, and some people begin treatment while in their 20’s.
As explained above, Botox works indirectly. If we compare the skin to clothing, Botox would be more like a fabric softener than an iron. It can prevent those fine lines or relax them away in the early stages.
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Once deeply etched creases have formed, Botox can help with is not likely to remove them. If your skin has reached that stage, Dr. Downie may recommend an adjunct treatment such as laser resurfacing, radiofrequency skin tightening, or dermal fillers.
It is never too early or too late for lovely skin
Maybe you have young, blemish-free skin that only needs preventive care to keep it that way. Perhaps you have advanced signs of aging and need a combination treatment plan to turn back the clock. Or you might be somewhere in-between, and you are not sure what you need. The best way to find out is getting an expert opinion. Call us at (973) 509-6900 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Downie.
