Here's How to To Get Longevity When it Comes to Your Aesthetic Procedures

Here's How To Get Longevity When It Comes To Your Aesthetic Procedures

By Dr Alek Nikolic - SkinMiles

Aesthetic injectables continue to rise in popularity and nowadays they are as common as getting a wax or having your hair done. When done right, they will have you looking and feeling your best for months, although they can be an expensive investment in your image. Treatments range from R 4 500 and upwards for injectables which are dependent on the number of injectable treatments required per visit to the specialist, so it is important to know the tips and tricks to keep your results looking as fresh as on the day they were done.

Having the correct skincare regime can reduce your post-aesthetic procedure side effects drastically and prolong your results. Dr Alek Nikolic, aesthetic medicine specialist and owner of Aesthetic Facial Enhancement provides some insight on how to enhance your results and improve the glow and appearance of your skin.

What To Do In Between Your Treatments

“I advise my patients to incorporate hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid into their skin regime,” says Dr Nikolic. Retinol is another hero ingredient that should be on your radar, and it has the ability to boost collagen production over time. These two ingredients will help you achieve plump, glowing, smooth skin between your injectable treatments.

Sun protection should also not be forgotten. “I always tell my patients that SPF is a non-negotiable as sun damage is the number one cause of aging skin,” states Dr Nikolic.

What To Do Before Your Next Injection

Your aesthetic practitioner will most likely provide you with a list of things to avoid before coming in for your procedure. They will likely include the following:

• Stop taking anti-inflammatory medication, fish oil and vitamin C supplements two weeks before your appointment as they will increase your chances of developing bruises post-procedure.

• Stay clear from wine and cocktails. Alcohol is a no-go a few days before your procedure. “This is because just like certain medications, alcohol is also a blood thinner which increases your risk of bruising, bleeding and swelling.

• If you want your treatment to be “under the radar” cut back on your salt intake the day before your treatment. By saying no to salt you are susceptible to less bruising and swelling.

What To Do After Your Injection

Post-procedure you will likely experience some redness and swelling, the best remedy for this will be to apply ice to the affected area following soft tissue fillers every hour. “Also remember not to touch your face or apply makeup for several hours as bacteria from your hands or makeup can enter the tiny holes created by the needle pricks,” adds Nikolic.

This is also the time to be extra gentle and kind to your skin and you don't want to use products that can aggravate it. “I would advise my patients to stay away from retinol and exfoliating ingredients

for at least two days post-procedure,” advises Dr Nikolic.

You also need to avoid activities that will open the blood vessels like intense exercise, long hot showers, or using the sauna. It is also best to avoid your afternoon nap after your procedure. Many practitioners will recommend that you stay upright for at least five hours, avoid exercise, and not rub or massage the treated areas after botulinum toxin injections.

And yes, eating fresh pineapples does help with swelling and bruising as it has anti-inflammatory properties.

Lastly, it is important to note that most soft tissue dermal fillers take about four weeks to fully settle and for you to start seeing the best results.

SkinMiles: Your Personal Skincare Destination

SkinMiles opened its doors in November 2015 after Dr Alek Nikolic realised that doctor-only recommended products with active ingredients were difficult to access. Dr Alek also realised that many people are not sure which products or ingredients to use for their skin types and skin concerns. “SkinMiles was created to allow for more convenient access to doctor recommended active ingredients, and to provide honest, reliable and effective advice for a personalised skin regime, to everyone.”

Visit: https://skinmiles.com