If you are beginning to notice signs of aging when you look in the mirror, you may be ready to take action. There are two basic paths that you can explore to combat the earliest signs of aging: topical treatments and minimally invasive procedures. One of the most popular surface treatments to improve fine lines, uneven tone and a loss of brightness is a skin serum. If you want a more aggressive treatment for lines and wrinkles, Botox injections may be for you. Let’s look at the differences between these two safe and effective options.
Face Serums
Face serums are thick, water-based products that you apply like a moisturizer. They have a high concentration of active ingredients that often include retinol, antioxidant,s and hyaluronic acid. Retinol helps to slough off dead cells so the face looks brighter and more youthful. Hyaluronic acid holds moisture to plump the skin, and antioxidants fight the free radicals that destroy the skin’s support structure. Because serums contain small molecules, they penetrate the skin very easily and carry the ingredients to the deeper layers. Serums help flatten fine lines and wrinkles and even out skin tone. A pea-sized drop spread over the skin after cleansing and before moisturizing is all that’s needed.
Botox
Botox is an injectable that is specifically intended to smooth wrinkles. It does not have the plumping or tone-evening effects of a serum, but it is very effective against lines between the brows, crow’s feet and forehead wrinkles. Because it is injected in very small amounts into very specific areas, it is considered safe. Botox temporarily paralyzes the selected facial muscles. This keeps them from contracting and pulling the skin into furrows.
Botox must be administered by a qualified professional in an office setting. The side effects of Botox injections are usually very mild, including slight swelling and bruising at the injection site. You should see results in three to seven days, and the effects should last three months or longer. However, results do vary.
Which Treatment Is Best for You?
Serum may be best for you if you want a surface treatment for all the facial skin. It effectively enhances freshness, skin tone and the appearance of fine lines. If you want a more direct attack on specific areas of lines and wrinkles, Botox injections may give you the results you are looking for. Your skin care professional can assess your personal situation and help you make your best decision.
