How to maintain injectable results while under quarantine

We are currently facing unprecedented times in our society. The global economy has come to a screeching halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the United States has not been immune from the consequences. All elective procedures in the country have been put on hold until such time when our local, state and federal authorities deem appropriate.

Many patients who regularly schedule noninvasive treatments, such as Botox and dermal fillers, may not know when they will be able to schedule their next appointment. How, then, is it possible to maintain the results of your most recent treatment while being under quarantine?

Avoid the sun

Regardless of whether you receive injectable treatments or not, minimizing your exposure to the sun is a good habit. Sun damage to the skin is the leading cause of wrinkles. Botox tends to be ineffective against these wrinkles since they do not involve the underlying muscles.

Many people may be spending more time outdoors to break up the monotony of the quarantine. While this is understandable, a good rule of thumb if you do spend time outside is to apply sunscreen with a high SPF to your face, neck and hands. And yes, make sure you apply sunscreen even on cloudy, overcast days!

Maintain a good skin care regimen

Continual skin care will ensure that the skin stays younger-looking for a longer period of time. Since most people are staying at home during this period, this is the perfect opportunity to start and maintain a good skin care regimen if don't already have one.

Make sure to apply moisturizer to your skin daily and stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Cleansers and toners can also help to maximize the results.

Take zinc supplements

Various studies have demonstrated that Botox reacts directly with the levels of zinc in our bodies, and that supplementation with zinc can increase the effects of Botox by up to thirty percent.

Since many people have a slight zinc deficiency, taking zinc supplements can help to prolong the anti-aging effects of Botox. Not to mention the boost to your immune system which is especially important in the current environment!

Don't stress

There are many negative effects that stress has on the body. People may be financially stressed or worry about losing their jobs due to the uncertainty surrounding the current economic and social conditions. While it may be hard to avoid stress in the midst of a pandemic, studies have shown stress can expedite the aging process.

If you are used to getting injectable treatments regularly, you may be worried about your appearance as the results wear off. As a result, many patients may be tempted to constantly look in the mirror, with the unintended consequences of frowning or squinting, which will stimulate the muscles and cause them to lose the effect of Botox or fillers quicker.

Staying in contact with your plastic surgeon

Many plastic surgeons are offering telehealth options to conduct consultations online while maintaining social distancing. If you regularly get injectable treatments, consider reaching out to your surgeon for an online appointment to discuss options while you're at home and get a plan in place to resume treatments once the coronavirus crisis passes.

If you are new to the world of injectable treatments but want to get started with injectables after the pandemic passes, please be sure to consult with a plastic surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and who also has experience with injections.

Spending time in quarantine is the perfect opportunity to research treatments as well as board-certified plastic surgeons in your area so that when things return to normal you will be ready to proceed with your anti-aging treatments!