It’s week three (or four, who can keep track?) of quarantine and manicures, dye jobs and other beauty treatments are starting to lose their fresh look. Although dark roots and grays might already be peaking through, the good news is that filler lasts six-to-nine months and if you have been maintaining your Botox up until now, you shouldn’t notice a drastic difference once your doctor’s office reopens. These tips from board-certified dermatologist and New York Times “Super Doctor,” Dr. Marina Peredo, will help you preserve fillers and Botox for as long as possible while self quarantining.
“Self care is really important during this time to keep the immune system healthy and strong,” Peredo said. “When it comes to skin, if you look good it makes you feel good about yourself during these stressful times.”
Limit Sun Exposure
We may not be allowed outside for long periods of time, but daily walks and trips to the grocery store still expose us to UV rays. Sun exposure can reverse the benefits of Botox by breaking down collagen.
“Every time you go outside (or sit near a window), make sure to apply a sunscreen that has SPF 30 to keep your skin at its best,” she said.
Peredo also advises to stay inside between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hours that the sun is the strongest.
Up Your Skincare Game
Fillers will last longer on hydrated skin so it is important to make sure to moisturize with a light cream each morning and a thicker lotion at night. Peredo suggests using a moisturizer that contains vitamin C, retinol or hydrochloric acid as these ingredients keep the skin plump and young looking. “Studies have shown that zinc makes Botox last longer so taking a zinc supplement daily may help prolong the anti-aging effects of the treatment,” she said. “Zinc is also a great way to boost immunity and many people are deficient in this essential mineral so even if you don’t have Botox, it is a great addition to your daily routine.”
Avoid Stress
“We are living in a very stressful time and it is more important than ever to try to remain positive and calm,” she said. Not only will this help our mental health, but it may also preserve filler. “When we are stressed out, our bodies produce cortisol which can quicken the aging process and undo the effects of the treatment,” Peredo said. “We also tend to furrow our brows and frown more often when feeling anxious, which can lead to wrinkles and shorten the effects of Botox.”
Eat Healthy
Eating a balanced diet not only affects your health, but also the appearance of your skin. Limiting sugar intake is a great way to preserve filler and Botox since sugar binds to collagen and elastin, which weighs them down, resulting in wrinkles. “By maintaining a steady weight and limiting sugar, dairy and processed food you will help your skin look young and fresh,” she said.
Sleep Right
Sleep on your side? This can cause the delicate skin on your chest and face to crease and wrinkle. In order to reduce the effects that side sleeping has on your skin, switch to a silk pillowcase which is gentler and doesn’t lock in oils and debris like cotton does.
Peredo’s officers are currently taking appointments for May. Patients are advised to make appointments now because appointments in March and April had to be rescheduled for May. For appointments, call 631-624-3404.
