Alternatives to Botox & Filler

Image Credit Michael Tyrone Delaney

FORMA | $$

Image via Into the Gloss (L), Glossier (R)

Forma (nonsurgical skin tightening) is a non-invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency to target deep into the skin's layers. It improves your skin's elasticity by heating up tissue, which in turn builds collagen. Most people who start to see signs of aging will use forma on the nasolabial folds area or for sagging skin around the jawline. But millennials are using it around the eyes for a quick brow lift and to target crows feet. Forma is safe for all skin types and is relatively painless. In fact, it feels like a nice warm massage on your face. The procedure can take around 30 mins to an hour, depending on what areas your technician is focusing on. Patients will usually book a series of 5-6 treatments, once a week and then keep up with maintenance monthly. If done correctly, you can see the benefits and results following the treatment for up to 4-5 years, making it a great alternative to Botox.

MICRONEEDLING w/ PRP | $$

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It makes total sense, but it is surprising that people still are not aware of the benefits of micro needling with prp. A typical visit would entail a quick blood draw, that is then placed into a centrifuge ( a machine that spins the blood), which separates your body’s nutrient rich plasma from the blood. Microneedling is then performed on the entire face, neck and / or chest, and the prp is applied all over, acting as a serum. You can also do micro injections around the face and target areas that need a little more love, such as the eyes or smokers lines around the lips,  but that is optional. Both prp and microneedling stimulate collagen growth and help heal scars or imperfections in the skin. Microneedling is also good for uneven skin tone and helps to trigger something called the ‘embryonic wound healing technique’ which is one of the most effective ways to regenerate tissue and collagen lose, which makes it an excellent alternative to Botox. Downtime can be anywhere from 3 to 7 days. 

LED | $

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There is a ton of hype around LED technology these days, but not many people know why or exactly how they work. LED therapy does not contain ultraviolet rays so it is safe for regular use and does not make hyperpigmentation worse in clients who are sensitive to light or heat. There are three different types of lights that are commonly used in skin care;  blue, red and amber. Blue treats acne by killing bacteria in the skin, red combats any type of inflammation, cystic acne, bruising or injuries in the skin, and amber helps to build collagen and elasticity in the skin. Since hyperpigmentation is a form of inflammation, it can be minimized with regular use of LED therapy. Overall, continuous LED sessions will result in younger more youthful skin and promote healing of tissue and softening of fine lines and wrinkles. There is no downtime with LED.

CO2 LASER | $$$

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Although CO2 lasers are one of the oldest technologies in the beauty industry, they are still one of the most effective and are commonly used in derm offices. This machine works by heating up the surface layers of the skin just enough to cause regeneration in the top layers of the epidermis. It helps to soften the appearance of age spots, fine lines and wrinkles as well as some minimal skin tightening. CO2 lasers are very effective and safe for treating crepeyness underneath the eyes, and tightening stretched skin anywhere on the face neck and chest. Downtime can take up to 2 weeks, and most lasers should not be performed during hot seasons of the year. Minimal sun exposure is required for optimal results.

*Cover Image via ImaxTree