Botulinum Toxin Type A (Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®) is the most common cosmetic procedure in the US with over 7,000,000 procedures performed per year. When one procedure dominates the market, it can easily overshadow other potentially effective and efficient options. When it comes to minimally invasive cosmetic procedures to reduce fine lines, reduce the visible signs of aging, and revitalize skin, is Botox the only option? The answer is a resounding no! There are dozens of great options for patients and practitioners to improve the visible appearance of skin without surgery.
With all of this in mind, here are some of the most common and effective alternatives to Botox when it comes to minimally invasive facial treatments. All of the following have their own sets of benefits and risks, but have been proven to reduce the visible signs of aging and more!
Microdermabrasion
One alternative to Botox is microdermabrasion. “Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive procedure used to renew overall skin tone and texture. It can improve the appearance of sun damage, wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, acne scarring, melasma, and other skin-related concerns and conditions.” Like many minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, the goal of microdermabrasion is to deliver the best possible results with the least possible discomfort, expense, and downtime for patients. Unlike many other minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, microdermabrasion treatments effectively remove the top layer of skin, yielding truly transformative results.
Chemical Peels
Another great option for individuals who want to improve the visible appearance of skin without needles, scalpels, or other invasive methods is the use of chemical peels. Chemical peels are a non-invasive cosmetic procedure aimed at reducing the visible signs of skin aging while also reducing uneven skin tone, minimizing the appearance of scars, and much more. Chemical peels use chemical exfoliation to essentially remove the superficial layer of skin, leaving a new, “fresh” layer underneath. This is opposed to mechanical exfoliation, which physically removes the top layer of dirt, debris, and other extraneous materials. Many chemical peels actually cause the skin to blister or burn, which allows the old skin to peel off. Hence the name: chemical peel.
Facial Filler Injections
Another type of cosmetic injectables, dermal filler injections are used to reduce the visible signs of aging, predominantly in the facial area and jowls. As we age, our skin loses elasticity, collagen, and thickness. Facial filler injections are an alternative to Botox that rejuvenates “hollowed” areas in the face, neck, and other areas. The key to a successful facial filler often comes down to locating the optimal injection site.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
For skin surface issues including acne scars, uneven skin tone, and reducing the visible signs of aging, some patients opt for laser skin resurfacing. Much like microdermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing works by gently removing a very thin top layer of skin, allowing new skin cells to surface underneath. Laser skin resurfacing is a great choice for those who are looking to improve a wide range of skin imperfections while also making the skin appear younger.
Microneedling with or without Radiofrequency
Traditional microneedling uses a roller covered in tiny microneedles to mechanically create younger looking skin. Radiofrequency has also been shown to allow skin to bring itself back to life by stimulating collagen growth (more on this below). Microneedling with radiofrequency uses both tiny microneedles and radiofrequency to stimulate collagen production, stimulate elastin production, and promote healthy blood flow. This is done with the intention of tightening, toning, and improving the visible appearance of skin.
Radiofrequency Skin Tightening Treatments
With or without microneedling, radiofrequency is commonly used as a minimally invasive skin tightening treatment. As we discussed above, radiofrequency skin tightening treatments work by stimulating collagen production in the skin, which results in a more youthful appearance, less visible fine lines, and stronger, more elastic skin. Radiofrequency treatments heat the superficial parts of the skin to produce this desired result.
At the end of the day, patients should consult with a qualified cosmetic surgeon to determine the best course of action for their unique wants and needs. When there are so many viable options, the key is finding the best one for you!
Learn About the Latest in Non-Invasive Cosmetic Procedures at SCALE 2020!
To learn more about beauty trends, beauty theory, non-invasive procedures, laser tech, and much more, join us from July 22-25, 2020 for our annual Music City Scale Conference! SCALE is the premier multidisciplinary meeting for aesthetic medicine, surgery and dermatology in the United States. Join other industry professionals to discuss industry trends, emerging technologies, and much more.
What started as a small gathering amongst colleagues 14 years ago has turned into the biggest party of the year within the field of aesthetic dermatology. Join us alongside hundreds of attendees and industry vendors to find out what you’ve been missing!
2020 Exhibitors & Sponsors
Elite sponsors: Allergan & Galderma
Platinum sponsors: Body by BTL, Crown Aesthetics, Cynosure, Merz Aesthetics, Ortho Dermatologics, Solta Medical
Gold sponsors: AbbVie, Crystal Clear, DefenAge, Evolus, SkinCeuticals, Sun Pharma
