Whether you're tired of repeated injections, have developed a resistance to BOTOX® Cosmetic, or simply don't like the idea of inserting bacteria into your skin, it's time to consider one of these other wrinkle remedies.
Cosmeceuticals
Lately more and more cosmetic companies are releasing new topical treatments that are supposed to be a hybrid of beauty product and medicine. How effective they are is not yet proven, but they utilize techniques like stem-cell technology and DNA nanotechnology to non-invasively rejuvenate the skin.
Laser resurfacing
By beaming a strong light on your skin, doctors burn off your damaged epidermis and stimulate the growth of younger looking skin. The popularity of laser resurfacing has boomed in recent years, particularly in comparison to more invasive, expensive surgical procedures. This may due in some part to the economy, but is also because of the improvement in the technology which has reduced the recovery time while increasing the effectiveness of the procedure.
Corrugator Excision
Did you know that you can actually get the muscle that pulls your eyebrows down either cut or removed entirely? This makes it impossible to furrow your brow, since you won't have the muscle to do it in the first place.
Forehead/Brow Lift
While not inexpensive, a forehead lift can almost entirely remove forehead wrinkles and give life to sagging eyes. It's done by making an incision in your hairline, and literally lifting the skin up to restore firmness. It's often done in conjunction with a facelift or an eyelift.
REX or GFX
This new, not-widely used treatment uses radiofrequency energy to freeze neurons so they can't connect to your frowning muscles. It hasn't been fully investigated or adopted by many doctors, but it could become more popular in the near future.
Acupuncture
There's also dispute in the medical community about the effectiveness of acupuncture for treating wrinkles, but it's increasingly popular. Advocates claim that by sticking needles in the area, they stimulate the collagen to grow, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Since acupuncture has other benefits and is relatively affordable, this may be a good option to try.
Other Fillers
While BOTOX is indisputably the most popular injection, other fillers and injectibles abound. Dysport (or Reloxin) has recently been approved by the FDA and may be more affordable than BOTOX. Collagen and Hyaluronic acid are both very popular injections, and work by plumping up the skin rather than paralyzing the muscle with bacteria. Dozens of other options are available. Your doctor can help you find the best fit for your face and budget.
Sources
The American Society of Plastic Surgery:
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery:
http://www.surgery.org/public/procedures/cosmetic_procedures_snapshot/
The American Academy of Plastic Surgery
http://www.cosmeticsurgery.org/patients/injectable.cfm
