Botox® and Juvederm® have long been recognized for their ability to soften lines and wrinkles and restore volume, but do they have any role in improving the look of our skin? Two new studies seem to say yes.
A recent article in the highly respected Journal of Dermatologic Surgery analyzed the effect of hyaluronic acid injections on the skin. As expected, patients were noted to have an improvement in facial rhytids and volume. More surprising, patients also noted an improved appearance of their skin. We have known for some time that hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm® attract water, providing a plumping affect to skin. The study authors, however, suspected there was something more going on than just skin hydration.
As part of the study skin biopsies were performed. These biopsies showed that the patient’s skin demonstrated an increased thickness to their epidermal layers and an increase in collagen fibrils, both signs of skin rejuvenation. These are effects we would expect with good skin care products, but not injectable fillers. The authors postulate that volumizing the face stretches the skin leading to these effects.
Another recent study in JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery evaluated the effects of Botox® on the skin. It noted improved pliability and elasticity of skin treated with Botox®. This effect was unrelated to Botox’s effect on muscle movement and wrinkle reduction. How Botox® achieved these effects remains a mystery. These changes are the reverse of the effects of sun damage and the aging process and again go along with what some of our best skin care products do.
What is clear from these two recent studies is that Botox® and Juvederm® can contribute to excellent skin right along with sunscreen and our most proven skin care products.
1. Wanick F, Braga F, et al. Skin Remodeling Using Hyaluronic Acid Filler Injections in Photo-Aged Faces. Derm Surg 2016; 42(3):352-359.
2. Bonaparte JP, Ellis D. Alteration in the elasticity, pliability, and viscoelastic properties of facial skin after injection of onabotulinum toxin A. JAMA Facial Plast Surg 2015; 17(4):256-264.