Are crow’s feet crawling on your face? Are wrinkles wreaking havoc on your skin? Aging and its signs on our skin are a natural part of life. While there’s no shame in showing your “experience,” we’ve all had moments where we’ve wished we could dial back the clock. Botox® is a proven cosmetic solution that helps our dermatology patients erase years from their appearance.

What is Botox®?

Originally created to help correct eye disease, Botox® has become a marvel of the medical world. This brand of botulinum toxin type A is a neurotoxin administered via several injections that targets the nervous system and blocks nerve signals to muscles. Once blocked, face muscles relax for a smoother appearance.

Botox® treatments are a convenient solution for skin care patients seeking a more youthful appearance. There is no recovery time required, meaning you can return to normal life refreshed and ready to greet the world. 

The effects of Botox® are typically visible within two to three days but it may take upwards of two weeks to show the full effect. It usually lasts three to four months before a follow-up treatment is needed.

Is Botox® right for you?

First and foremost, no one needs Botox® treatments. This may sound counterintuitive coming from our dermatology office, but it is the truth. With that said, this cosmetic dermatology treatment has many uses and can provide many physical and mental benefits that can elevate your life.

For example, it is common knowledge that when we look good, we feel good too! A recent study by Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at University of California San Diego found that Botox® patients saw a 22 to 72% decreased risk of anxiety after receiving Botox® treatments. 

Botox® may be right for you if signs of aging on your face, neck or around the eyes is cause for stress. 

Botox® can also treat a surprising range of medical conditions:

• Overactive Bladder
• Lazy Eye
• Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)

As with all medical treatments, Botox® carries a slight risk of adverse reactions, including itching, rashes and/or swelling. Speak with your board-certified dermatologist to determine if Botox® makes sense for you.

Are there alternatives to Botox®?

Botox® is highly-effective, but it’s not the only solution for signs of aging. There are several other less-intrusive treatments for less serious wrinkles.

1. Retinoids: Derived from vitamin A, retinoid creams are powerful skincare compounds used to treat acne, aging, rough skin and hyperpigmentation by boosting cell turnover and collagen. 

2. Dermabrasion: This skin treatment – also known as “sanding” – exfoliates the outer layer of the skin using a specialized tool, improving issues like scars and texture. It stimulates skin regeneration for a smoother complexion.

3. Chemical Peels: A cosmetic treatment that uses a chemical solution to exfoliate and improve skin texture, addressing concerns like fine lines, pigmentation and scars. Chemical peels reveal smoother skin by removing the outer layer, with varying strengths available. 

Charleston Dermatology smooths out your skin worries!

Your skin’s needs are as unique as your own. At Charleston Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists are ready to support South Carolina patients in achieving their skin goals. We a proud to provide for patients throughout the state. Contact us today to book your appointment and learn more about our cosmetic and medical dermatological services!