Tox injections are a popular way to temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face by paralyzing the underlying muscles. While Tox results typically last 3-4 months, there are steps you can take to help maintain your Tox and extend its effects for even longer. Follow this advice to maximize and preserve your Tox results.
Get Tox Before Deep Lines Develop
Starting Tox before deep wrinkles form allows it to work preventatively, stopping dynamic lines from getting etched into the skin. Consistent, early Tox treatments can keep moderate lines from worsening. Schedule appointments as soon as fine lines start bothering you rather than waiting until they are very pronounced. Getting Tox at the first sign of fine lines will help keep wrinkles from getting deeper.
Stay Consistent with Follow-Up Appointments
To maintain seamless results, stick to the injection schedule recommended by your provider – usually every 3-4 months. Resist the urge to push appointments farther apart, even if you still look smooth. As Tox wears off, repeated muscle movements can lead lines to reemerge and etch deeper. Staying on schedule replaces worn-off Tox before this happens. Following the recommended injection timeline is key to avoiding lapses between treatments.
Use Proper Injection Technique
How Tox is administered impacts how long it lasts. Experienced injectors position injections carefully and use precisely measured doses across multiple sites for natural-looking results that endure. Do your research to find an injector who specializes in Tox and has consistently great reviews. Avoid doctors who only provide Tox as an add-on service. Seeking an experienced, specialized Tox injector will help maximize results.
Avoid Rubbing or Massaging After
It’s crucial not to rub, press, or massage the treated areas for at least 3 hours post-injection. This can displace Tox from the injection sites and reduce its effects. Be gentle washing your face or applying makeup right after. Also, don’t lie down for 3-4 hours to prevent product shifting. Avoid any pressure or massage on the treatment areas to keep the Tox in place.
Maintain Facial Muscle Relaxation
Once Tox takes effect, you’ll notice treated areas remain smooth when your face is at rest. But repeatedly animating the muscles can weaken results. Try to curb extreme facial expressions, squinting, frowning, or raising your eyebrows. Retraining your facial movements preserves muscle relaxation from Tox. Being mindful of facial expressions will help the Tox effects last longer.
Incorporate Retinoids
Using prescription retinoids between Tox treatments helps maintain smooth skin. Retinoids like tretinoin increase collagen production and skin cell turnover for improved texture and glow. They also prevent the formation of new creases. Applying retinoids twice weekly provides ongoing benefits between Tox sessions. Retinoids enhance Tox results by improving skin texture and radiance.
Use Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Daily
UV exposure is the number one cause of premature skin aging. Not only does it damage and age skin directly, but it can also degrade neuromodulators like Tox more quickly. Wearing broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily protects your Tox investment. Reapply frequently if spending time outdoors. Don’t skip the SPF to help maximize your Tox treatment time.
Stay Hydrated and Moisturize Skin
Dehydration leads to a dull, dry complexion that accentuates wrinkles and fine lines. Drink plenty of water and use a rich moisturizer morning and night to keep your skin hydrated. Look for lotions containing hyaluronic acid which holds 1000x its weight in water for a plumping effect. Adequate hydration keeps skin smooth for longer. Proper hydration inside and out helps skin retain a plump, youthful appearance.
Consider Tox Boosters
Some specialty clinics offer additional treatments that act as Tox boosters when used together, like laser genesis and radiofrequency microneedling. These modalities complement Tox by building collagen and stimulating fresh young skin. Discuss ancillary treatments with your provider. Combination approaches can extend overall rejuvenation. Boosters like laser treatments enhance and prolong Tox rejuvenation results.
Avoid Facial Massages Post-Treatment
Although massage feels relaxing, it can actually redistribute Tox and weaken its effects. Facial massages involve kneading and manipulating the muscles – exactly what you want to avoid after Tox. Skip the face massage and opt for a soothing shoulder rub instead. You’ll get the relaxation without compromising your Tox results. Postpone facials and face massages to maintain the dispersion of the Tox.
Watch Out for Medications
Certain medications can make Tox less effective. Drugs like ibuprofen, aspirin, and fish oil are blood thinners that can contribute to Tox diffusion and shortened effects. Also, avoid supplements with biotin which may interfere with Tox binding. Let your provider know about any supplements or medications you take. Discuss all medications and supplements to avoid negative interactions.
Adjust Sleeping Positions
Sleeping face down or on your side can press and shift Tox, especially in the first 3-4 hours after treatment. This could lead Tox to migrate beyond the desired muscle. Try sleeping on your back with your head slightly elevated to avoid putting pressure on injected areas on treatment day. Optimal sleep positioning prevents compression and movement of the Tox.
Incorporate Anti-Aging Skincare
Using antioxidant and restorative skincare keeps skin in optimal shape between Tox sessions. Ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, and peptides help reverse UV damage, increase collagen, and restore firmness for a supple canvas that retains Tox beautifully. Your provider can suggest complementary products. Anti-aging skincare optimizes skin health and Tox receptivity.
Consider More Frequent Microdoses
Rather than the standard injection schedule, some patients benefit from more frequent “microdoses” of Tox every 8-10 weeks. Smaller amounts injected more often provide constant neuromodulator coverage, seamlessly maintaining results. Discuss this option with your injector. Microdosing offers an alternative maintenance approach.
Tox injections provide a fast, nonsurgical way to erase fine lines and wrinkles from the face for smoother, youthful-looking skin. Following proper aftercare and skin health practices allows Tox results to last longer. Maintain consistent appointments, use sun protection and moisturize diligently, and avoid rubbing or pressing on treated areas. With this regimen, you can extend your treatment and enjoy smooth skin for months at a time.