Does IPL reduce the need for Botox?

Question

A few years ago I had the IPL/pixel combo laser treatment on my face-worked wonderfully! I found I did not need Botox for about 6-8 months after-not sure if that was just a coincidence or does that really help so you don’t have to have the Botox as often? I hope that makes sense!

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi FF.  If you were able to avoid using Botox in favor of the IPL/Pixel route, you would be either very young or very much in the minority.  Botox (Dysport, Xeomin) are designed to treat dynamic wrinkles, those wrinkles you get when smiling or frowning.  Pixel, although it is a resurfacing lasers is typically better at treating acne scars, fine lines or other minor imperfections in the texture of the skin.  It would not help much if at all for the wrinkles in the crow's feet or between the eyes that are present when contracting the muscle in those areas.  IPL would have no effect on the wrinkles, but may be great for pigment associated with sun damage.  If you feel great about your appearance after IPL/Pixel, then there's no need to do anything else.  But if you start getting lines or wrinkles around the eyes when smiling or frowning, then it's probably time to turn to Botox.  Good luck with all your treatments.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, this combination can give improvement to the texture of the skin, also improving fine lines and wrinkles. I usually recommend lasers with microneedling and prp to get the most robust results. Best, Dr. Emer

Jean Keamy, MD · Answer

The combination of laser treatments you had can help with reduce  fine lines and brown spots.  It also can stimulate collagen and improve skin texture. The laser does not freeze muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles like frown lines or crows feet.  However, it's great that it has made you feel great about your skin and looks. Laser is a wonderful way to revitalize your skin.  You can always have botox if and when your eleven lines or lines on your forehead bother you.

Does IPL reduce the need for Botox?

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Does IPL reduce the need for Botox?

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Everything you need to know about IPL

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