Retinol, Vitamin A and Tretinoin

What's a Retinol?

Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A. Tretinoin is a synthetic form. Tretinoin is significantly stronger than retinol and requires a prescription. Retinoids work by increasing cell turnover providing new, skin cells. They help boost youthful appearance by reducing fine lines and wrinkles. There is typically a skin shedding when first starting and it can take a few weeks of frequent use to see improvement in your skin.

How to use:

In the evening, after cleaning your face, retinoids should be the first thing applied to the skin. See a pea sized amount, dot it a few places around the face(ie forehead, cheeks, chin) then rub it in. Use a second pea sized amount for neck and declottage. Wait approximately 5 minutes before applying any other skincare products.

Start every 4-5th night gradually working up to every night or every other night.

Tips: If you are struggling adjusting to thee retinoids, you can use a "sandwich method". Apply moisturizer (bread) , retinoid (meat) then moisturizer(bread). While applying the retinoid in this manner slightly decreases the efficacy, it is still beneficial to you skin.

Warning: Retinoids increasing your sensitivity to sun, so be vigilant about your sunscreen when using retinoids. Due to the light sensitivity , you need to stop retinoids for a minimum of a week before any laser treatments. YOU CAN NOT USE RETINOIDS WHEN PREGNANT.

Neurotoxin Aftercare

When can I expect to see results?
Most patients begin to notice the benefits of neuromodulators 3-5 days following treatment. You will not necessarily feel anything different, but you will gradually notice a decrease in movement and wrinkles along the treated areas. For some patients, it may up to 2 weeks to see optimal results.

How long will the results last?
The effect of neuromodulatords is not permanent. After about three to four months, you will begin to see your wrinkles returning. In some cases, the results can last up to six months, and in other cases, the patient may notice some wrinkles returning after only two months following treatment. It has been found that the results and effectiveness of Botox® last longer with successive new treatments.
Is there anything I should avoid following my treatment?
Try to avoid manipulating the treatment area immediately following your appointment.
Avoid laying down for 4 hours post injection.

What if I bruise?
Bruising is rare but is a possibility. Some over the counter medications and natural alternative supplements may increase the likelihood of developing a bruise. If you do happen to develop bruising, the bruise should resolve over the next 7-10 days.
What if I get a headache?
This is uncommon. If you happen to incur a headache following treatment, your usual treatments (over the counter medications, cool compresses, and dimmed lights) should suffice.
We recommend that you avoid aspirin/ anti-inflammatory medications immediately following your treatment.

Is it okay to apply make-up to the treated area?

We recommend you waiting 6-12 hours after treatment to apply makeup to the treated area.
If make-up is necessary immediately following your treatment, cleanse the area with a gentle facial cleanser prior to application.
Mineral make-up designed for sensitive skin is recommended immediately following treatment with neuromodulators. Please consult with one of our staff to further discuss our recommended post-treatment skin care regimen.