Can Sun Damage Affect My Botox Results?

While sun exposure is known for aging the skin and increasing a patient’s risk for skin cancer, it is not known to interfere with Botox treatments. However, sun exposure can increase the need for cosmetic injectables such as Botox to maintain a youthful appearance. This is because prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause a break down in the elastin fibers of the skin. Once this occurs, skin laxity develops and results in sagging and stretching. This can also contribute to the development of fine lines, wrinkles, and folds that add to one’s aging appearance.

How can I reduce sun exposure after Botox injections?

Many patients have Botox injections completed to address wrinkles and folds. While sun exposure does not immediately impact Botox, it can speed up the signs of aging that cause patients to consider cosmetic injectables. Whether you are undergoing Botox injections or not, it is essential that you protect your skin from sun damage. A few tips for reducing sun exposure that can contribute to aging skin include:

• Avoiding tanning beds, which can increase one’s risk for sun damage and skin cancer
• Protecting the skin with a high SPF sunscreen that protects from both UVA and UVB rays (“broadband” sunscreen)
• Reducing sunlight exposure, especially during the time of the day when the ultraviolet rays are the strongest, between 10am and 4pm
• Using a topical antioxidant to combat free radicals that can also contribute to wrinkles, lines, and volume loss

What should I expect after Botox injections?

In addition to taking great care in protecting the skin from sun damage, patients should also pay close attention to how their body reacts to Botox injections and speak to their doctor if they have any concerns. It is not uncommon for patients to have some redness and tenderness at the injection site for a few days following treatment. Botox may also cause patients to experience stinging, swelling, or bruising. These are often short-lived and will go away on their own without the need for dermatological assistance.

Are you interested in learning more about Botox injections and proper skin care?

Contact the Florida Academic Dermatology Center by calling (305) 324-2110 and visiting the practice at 475 Biltmore Way, Suite #207. We are accepting new patients into our practice.