Skincare and makeup are great steps to help conceal and slow ageing, but there's only so much they can do. Fillers and injectable treatments don't need to be construed as scary things though, as a little understanding goes a long way.
All too often I'm told that people don't want to try Botox as they 'want their face to move', and they're scared of lip fillers by 'trout pout scare stories'. As someone who has had BOTH those treatments successfully, I'd like to advise them that there are good and bad ways to approach injectable treatments, and I got some time with Dr Andrew Douglas to clear up a few common misconceptions.
What does the term Protox mean?
Protox is a term coined to cover those that are seeking Botox as a way of addressing specific ageing issues- rather than 'generic' Botox, think perhaps teachers who frown a lot, or those who get particular recurring lines from their job. Protox will help soften these and prevent them from getting worse.
Can you use Botox all over the face?
Botox is intended to be used in three areas, the frown lines, the area between your eyebrows and the eye area. For other parts of the face you should look at fillers. There are many types of fillers, from Sculptra which is more about volume restoration than augmentation, to ones which help fill deeper lines.
What type of atercare do you need for Botox and Fillers? Can you have them together?
Never have fillers and botox at the same time- I'd advise getting fillers then going back at the two week check up and seeing if you need to add anything anywhere. Always wait at least 8 hours before going to the gym, and if you're told not to touch your face and sit upright, please do so- it does make a difference.
How do you find a good practicioner?
You should find them by word of mouth and a good reputation. It's up to you as how much you value things, as to where you get it done. Look for people who've been in the business for many years.
I've heard that some fillers help collagen reproduction- please explain?
Sculptra involves injections into the skin like a dermal filler, but rather than an instant effect it works over a period of time, stimulating collagen production and plumping up the skin over a longer time. The main ingredient is poly-l-lactic acid which was designed to repair scars and contour areas. Treatments can last up to two years.
I also watched Dr Andrew Douglas perform both a filler and a Botox treatment upon two clients and can attest that nobody cried, and that the treatment was very quick. You need to decide when the times is right for you if you want to try these types of treatments, just be aware they are both safe and controlled, and that results will be good. When you feel ready to try this type of treatment, make sure you feel comfortable with your doctor and that they have a good understanding of what you are looking for.
To have a consultation or learn more about Dr Andrew Douglas, check out his website.