Dr. M. Lal

With age, the skin begins to deteriorate and gradually lose its function and appearance.  The underlying layers of collagen, which give it the firmness and elasticity begin to gradually break down, leading to sagging of the skin, dark spots and pigments, and dull, lusterless skin.  

This causes cosmetic and psychological concerns, given that most people (especially women) become extremely conscious about these and want to avoid these ageing effects of skin. Over the past few decades, skin fillers and Botox have begun to play a major role in skin rejuvenation, especially from the various ageing effects.  

Let us look at these two methods and how they have worked their magic around skin care.

Botox: The neurotoxin from botulinum A was actually used for treating muscular disorders to cause paralysis and prevent repeated twitching. However, it was later realised that the same effect could be used in skin to reduce ageing effects.  Used commonly in the crow’s feet area, forehead and frown lines, the injected Botox causes paralysis of the underlying muscles.  

This reduces the muscular activity and so the muscles relax and soften.  This produces a younger looking appearance.  In addition, these paralysed muscles also give some time for the elastin and collagen to recover.

The Botox injections are usually done in the outpatient setting and require about half an hour to an hour. The areas for injection are marked and after the procedure, the patient can go back to regular schedule, including working.  It might require repeat injections, about 4 to 6 months later, depending on how well the skin responds and the expectations of the patients.

Fillers: Another routinely and commonly used way to manage wrinkles are the dermal fillers. The elastin, collagen and hyaluronic acid in the skin are lost with age and these filler injections replace the lost substances in very quick time and thereby restore youthful skin quickly.  Unlike Botox, the muscles are not touched.  There is a loosening of the collagen and elastin, which produces loose skin and sagging.  The fillers occupy the space left behind by the lost collagen and elastin and actually ‘fill’ up the extra available space. This gives a firmer, younger looking skin.  The lines and creases are actually eliminated. They can also be used to produce thicker lips, lifting cheeks and plumping temples.

So, if you are worried about ageing effects of skin, talk to your dermatologist to find out if Botox or fillers can do the trick for you!! In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!