shutterstock 1224470146 (1)

When it comes to skincare, the general rule is that it’s easier to prevent than it is to correct, and the same remains for the delicate skin around your eyes. Whether you just began noticing fine lines or have deeper-set crow’s feet, the way you choose to address the issue will make all the difference in your anti-aging intervention.  

## **Why You Need an Eye Cream**
It’s not an illusion. The skin around your eyes is, in fact, different than the skin on the rest of your face. For starters, it’s super thin. It also lacks oil glands, which makes it drier and more prone to irritation than other parts of the body. Therefore, caring for it with a product and regimen of its own is essential.  

“The eye area is very sensitive, and great care needs to be taken when formulating an eye product so that you don’t irritate it,” explains NYC-based cosmetic chemist and founder of [BeautyStat Cosmetics](https://beautystat.com/), Ron Robinson. “From a texture perspective, the formula has to be spreadable, but without too much slip so you can control it as you apply.”

## **How to Apply Skincare Around the Eyes**
When it comes to application, dermatologists agree that the best way to apply an eye cream is to pat it around your eye with your ring finger.  “This way, you’re not tugging on the skin and creating any irritation,” says board certified dermatologist [Adriana Lombardi, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/adriana-lombardi-md-12670), of Skin Cancer and Cosmetic Surgery Center of New Jersey.  

Besides the patting technique, it is also important to note that the skin above the eye is just as important as the skin below it. Some (but not all!) eye creams are specifically formulated to be used in this way, so be sure to follow the directions.

## **How to Treat Common Eye Concerns**
Because the skin around the eye is so delicate, it is more likely to show signs of aging like crepiness, fine lines, and wrinkles. But the orbital area is also prone to dark circles, puffiness, and a general appearance of tiredness that may be the result of genetics, lifestyle, or other environmental factors. Regardless of the source of your concern, these tips will have you well on your way to perkier peepers.

### **For Fine Lines & Wrinkles**
Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydration is essential in order to decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Many eye creams contain [hyaluronic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler), which is a powerhouse ingredient that quenches the skin by absorbing 1,000 times its weight in water. [Retinol](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare) and creams with retinol-like growth factors (ingredients that behave like retinol), meanwhile, stimulate collagen and improve the appearance of fine lines overtime. Try [Neocutis Lumiére](https://www.dermstore.com/product_LUMIRE_11062.htm), which has growth factors, caffeine, hyaluronate and chamomile to decrease fine lines and puffiness. A good drugstore option is [Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Eye Cream](https://www.ulta.com/regenerist-retinol24-night-eye-cream?productId=pimprod2007288) for under-eye use. It contains vitamin B3, which counteracts the otherwise irritating effects of retinol.

**Best Skincare Ingredients for Fine Lines & Wrinkles:**
- Hyaluronic Acid (HA) 
- Retinol 
 
Besides using eye creams, there are non-surgical procedures that can soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well. As consequences of facial expressions, crow’s feet form over time *on the sides* of the eyes thanks to your muscles contracting, which makes a [neurotoxin injection like Botox®](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin) a good option.  

“Botox® relaxes the muscles so they can’t create lines any longer, which acts as a fix and preventative measure,” says Dr. Lombardi. Without muscle contraction, your lines can’t deepen.  If you take this route, you’ll want to keep up with your injections about every three to four months.

If you’re finding the lines *under* the eyes aren’t improving with skincare, lasers may be able to help. The goal is to stimulate collagen production and smooth out wrinkles. Dr. Lombardi recommends a series of three [non-ablative laser treatments](https://aedit.com/procedure/nonablative-fractional-lasers) spaced one month apart from each other.   

**Best Minimally Invasive Procedures for Fine Lines & Wrinkles:**
- Neurotoxin Injections (think: Botox®) 
- Non-Ablative Laser Treatments 

### **For Dark Circles**
While there are many causes for under eye dark circles (and Dr. Lombardi recommends speaking with your dermatologist to understand how to best target your unique case), the most common reason is having a hollow under your eye. The light reflects in the hollow orbital bone and casts shadows that form due to increased puffiness on the lids caused by lack of sleep, allergies, and eating salty foods.  

In this case, the best fix would be to decrease the hollow using a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler like Restalyne® (getting more sleep and cutting out salt doesn’t hurt either!). [Under-eye Restalyne® injections](https://aedit.com/procedure/under-eye-filler) last anywhere from six months to one year.  

Skin conditions such as [eczema](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-skincare-products-to-treat-eczema-flare-ups-in-the-winter) or allergies can cause the skin to thicken and lead to the appearance of darkening the under-eye area as well. If this is the case, then a topical steroid can help clear it up. Increased pigment under the eyes can also be genetic, which is common for people with darker skin tones. Laser treatments would be the best solution. 

**Best Minimally Invasive Procedures to Treat Dark Circles:**
- Hyaluronic Acid-Based Fillers like Restalyne®
- Non-Ablative Laser Treatments 
- Topical Steroids (in cases of allergies) 

Eye cream can, of course, help as well. We like the [Jafra Revitalize Longevity Eye Créme](https://www.jafra.com/skincare/brands/jafra-royal-revitalize/Longevity-Eye-Creme) because it addresses anti-aging concerns *and* also contains optical diffusers that help to immediately blur imperfections and temporarily brighten the area. Another editor-approved pick? [IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Brightening Cream](https://www.sephora.com/product/bye-bye-under-eye-eye-cream-smooths-brightens-depuffs-P411401), which has a blue tint to help brighten the appearance of dark circles.

### **For Puffiness**
According to Dr. Lombardi, under-eye puffiness occurs for two main reasons:

1. The fat pad that typically sits under the eye protrudes outward due to genetics
2. Fluid pools because of the delicate nature of the skin and muscles in the area

Using ingredients that work to constrict the blood vessels and improve circulation will help to decrease puffiness under the eyes. Vitamin K and caffeine are two of the most popular. Vitamin K helps to promote proper blood flow, which, in turn, decreases puffiness. Caffeine, meanwhile, is a vasoconstrictor that reduces inflammation by restricting blood flow to the area. 

**Best Skincare Ingredients to Decrease Puffiness:**
- Vitamin K
- Caffeine 

Try [Isdin KOX](https://www.isdin.com/us/under-eye-cream-isdinceutics_k_ox_eyes.html) or [Alchimie Forever Rejuvenating Eye Balm](https://www.alchimie-forever.com/collections/anti-aging/products/rejuvenating-eye-balm), which contain Vitamin K and antioxidants to decrease puffiness and improve the elasticity of the skin. For a caffeine boost that doesn’t involve coffee, the [Fountain of Truth Magic Wand: Sculpting Eye Roller](https://www.ulta.com/magic-wand-sculpting-eye-roller?productId=pimprod2004334) instantly awakens tired eyes.

## **The Takeaway**
If you’ve already mastered the art of applying eye cream, eye serums are the buzziest new addition to the skincare game. Brands like [Fresh](https://www.sephora.com/product/black-tea-firming-eye-serum-P439626), [Clinique](https://www.sephora.com/product/all-about-eyes-serum-de-puffing-eye-massage-P257537), and [La Prairie](https://www.laprairie.com/default/skin-caviar-collection/eye-lift/95790-01297-44.html) recently released eye serums meant to complement cream-based formulas in their collections. While some industry professionals say an eye serum is simply a marketing ploy, dermatologists agree that, with the right ingredients, they work just as well as creams — albeit with a much finer texture.

If you find an eye product that works for you, it doesn’t matter if the formulation is a serum or cream. If you choose to layer, a serum should be applied *under* a cream (just like the rest of your face routine). At the end of the day, what matters is that you’re consistent in using it.

Since most eye creams don’t have sun protection in them, Dr. Lombardi highly recommends applying a [physical SPF](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-you-need-to-know-about-sunscreen), like zinc, each morning on top of your eye cream of choice to help prevent fine lines and wrinkles caused by sun damage.

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Beauty Collection | The AEDITION

Beauty

When it comes to skincare, the eyes have it. But why does the area need special treatment? A board certified dermatologist and cosmetic chemist break it all down.

How To Treat The Skin Around The Eyes With Skincare And Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures

How To Properly Care For The Skin Around Your Eyes

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When it comes to navigating the world of skincare, the list of questions feels endless. When to start using a [retinoid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare)? Does [Botox®](https://aedit.com/procedure/botox-facial) hurt? Do you really need to wear sunscreen in the winter? The short answers are: Integrate retinol slowly and allow your skin to adjust; [Botox® doesn’t hurt](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-before-getting-botox-for-the-first-time); and, yes, [wear sunscreen all day, every day](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-you-need-to-know-about-sunscreen), no matter what. But the list of questions goes on and on. 

We get it. Wrapping your head around the nuances of skin health and various skin conditions can be daunting. We also know that no one understands this better than your dermatologist. Sure, you may come to your appointment or consultation with a stack of inquiries, but, since you can’t be expected to think of everything, we’ve decided to give the dermatologists the mic. Here, board certified dermatologists share the questions they always hear and the ones they wish you’d ask.

## **The Most Commonly Asked Cosmetic Dermatology Questions**
Of course, in today’s [prejuvenation era](https://aedit.com/aedition/i-was-practicing-prejuvenation-before-it-was-a-trend), the most commonly asked skincare questions revolve around preventative care. Aesthetic medicine is not at the point of preserving everlasting youth, but dermatologists know that they are often thought of as the gatekeepers to the fountain of youth. 

“How to best take care of my skin to prevent premature aging is probably my number one question,” says board certified dermatologist [Morgan Rabach, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/morgan-rabach-md-17913), of LM Medical NYC. Call them [tweakments](https://aedit.com/aedition/why-im-all-about-tweakments), precautionary treatments, or advanced anti-aging action, Hollywood-based board certified dermatologist [Jason Emer, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/jason-emer-md-722), wants to help. He sees the skincare landscape changing to cater to problems before they arrive. “More and more, my patients begin skincare treatments such as radiofrequency lasers and [chemical peels](https://aedit.com/procedure/superficial-chemical-peels) in their late [twenties](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-maintain-youthful-skin-in-your-20s). In their early [thirties](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-cosmetic-procedures-plastic-surgery-to-consider-in-your-30s) they’re hoping to prevent common signs of aging before they become evident,” he shares. “Patients ask me what they can do now to avoid skin degeneration later.”

For board certified dermatologist [Samer Jaber, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/samer-jaber-md-3882), founder of Washington Square Dermatology in Manhattan, patients often wonder about their skin conditions and to optimize their skincare regimen for optimal skin health. Among the most common questions Dr. Jaber hears from patients: 

- What kind of moisturizer/cleanser should I be using? 
- How do I know if a mole is worrisome? 
- How can I prevent aging without breaking the bank? 
- What kind of sunscreen should I use?

## **What Your Dermatologist Wishes You Would Ask**
Whether it’s during an annual skin exam or their [first cosmetic consultation](https://aedit.com/aedition/questions-to-ask-your-doctor-during-plastic-surgery-consultation), questions naturally arise. But that doesn’t mean patients are checking all the boxes. Here are three questions patients aren’t asking that their dermatologists wish they would: 

### **1. Should I Really Get This Done?**
For Dr. Emer, pre-preventative care questions are vital. “When patients come to me after having had a bad prior experience or even a botched procedure, I definitely wish they would’ve asked more questions before jumping the gun,” he explains. “It’s so important to ask about all options so you can weigh out the risks and benefits. For example, ‘Would I benefit from [threads](https://aedit.com/procedure/pdo-thread-lift) or [filler](https://aedit.com/aedition/facelifts-vs-injectable-dermal-fillers-which-one-is-right-for-me)?’ The answer is easily ‘both’ but it is up to the patient to ask the deeper questions like, ‘Which product would complement my best features for a natural result and why?’ No two faces are the same, so it’s crucial to make a very clear blueprint of what you envision for your most desired outcome.” 

### **2. What Is in My Skincare Products?** 
“I wish people would ask more about ingredients in skincare and really be open to thinking about what they are using and how it affects their skin,” Dr. Rabach says. Whether you simply wash your face with soap and water or enjoy a multi-step routine, your regimen should, above all, be a well-researched one. 

To start, you must figure out what is best for your skin — not what is most buzzed about or what the current ‘problem-solving’ miracle product is. “Many cosmetic products claim certain things that aren’t necessarily scientifically proven or tested. Sometimes people ‘like’ a cream and aren’t open to using something that has more science behind it for the health and look of their skin,” Dr. Rabach explains. “If people enjoy or ‘relax’ by using certain products, that’s also important for self care. But certain active ingredients most definitely work better than others.”

Dr. Emer shares a similar sentiment, noting the importance of sourcing your products from reputable providers. “If you are in search of products that will be effective in treating the four main components of aging skin – texture/tone, laxity, movement lines, and loss of volume – you must choose top-of-the-line brands,” he says.  

### **3. How Can I Better Protect My Skin?** 
“We wish our patients asked more questions about skin cancer protection and the risks of sun damage,” Dr. Jaber says. Preventative care with the use of sunblock is paramount for your overall health and appearance. “The number one cause of aging is [sun damage](https://aedit.com/aedition/cosmetic-procedures-treatments-to-correct-sun-damage),” he explains. “It is important to remind our patients that sunscreen, while helpful and necessary, is not equivalent to actually blocking the sun. Even with sunscreen, spending significant time in the sun will still cause sun damage.” And the dangers of prolonged sun exposure go far beyond the cosmetic. “In addition to the negative cosmetic effects of aging, significant sun exposure also significantly increases their risk of skin cancers,” he warns.

### **4. Can You Please Explain This A Bit More?**

“I think the amount of information out there naturally overwhelms people, and by the time they end up at the dermatologist’s office, the degree of confusion is so vast that people aren’t sure how to vocalize their questions,” explains board certified dermatologist [Nikhil Dhingra](https://aedit.com/provider/nikhil-dhingra-md-17376) of Spring Street Dermatology in NYC. Everyone is at a different point in their skincare journey, so confusion is natural. Dr. Dhingra recommends patients focus on what concerns pertain to them and to go from there. “Coming up with a list of your top three skincare concerns based on your own assessment and then asking your dermatologist what’s right for each concern is a good starting point,” he adds. 


## **Addressing Your Preventative Skincare Misconceptions** 
When it comes to cultivating a skincare routine, most people have the best intentions. But that’s not to say patients aren’t getting a few things wrong. From skimping on sunscreen to not scheduling annual skin checks, skin health is about more than the latest lotions and potions or cosmetic procedures. 

Speaking of skincare, Dr. Emer shares that what you see from Hollywood shouldn’t replace the insight of a dermatologist. “It’s bothersome when I read articles about celebrities using drugstore products – indicating that all anti-aging products work the same. They absolutely do not,” he explains. While sticker shock is real, there is usually a reason why the prices surge for certain types of products. “They have a high price tag for a reason. The ingredients are usually proprietary, rare, and sourced from exclusive regions of the world,” Dr. Jaber adds. “A drugstore retinol cannot be compared to a medical-grade product.”

Additionally, sourcing skincare advice online can create a skewed image of what a routine needs to look like for each individual. “Nowadays, with blogs and social media, there is this need to do too much to the skin and if we’re not, it means we’re not taking good care of ourselves,” adds Dr. Dhingra. “If you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling to generate a routine for yourself, rather than diving through the bowels of the internet for information from random resources, seeking help from a dermatologist can be the most productive thing to do for your skin,” he explains.

## **How Often Should You Visit A Dermatologist, Anyway?** 
Generally speaking, all patients should visit the dermatologist at least once a year for a regular skin check. If you are also visiting your provider for cosmetic treatments and procedures, Dr. Rabach recommends scheduling an appointment two to four times a year for “maintenance of complexion, such as routine skin checks, chemical peels, Botox®, and more.”

Dr. Jaber warns that family history needs to be taken into account as well. “If you have a family or personal history of skin cancers, like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, you should come in at least every six months,” he says. It is important to remember that your skin is your body’s largest organ, and you need to pay attention to skin tone, dark spots, blemishes, sun spots, and any other areas of concern that might come up over a period of time. “You should also see a dermatologist if a certain mole worries you,” he shares. “For example, if a new mole appears or if a current mole because darker, develops an irregular border, or has any signs of itching, burning, bleeding, you should have it evaluated by your dermatologist.”

And those who have yet to schedule their first appointment or have skipped their annual check ups because they’ve sought out help online, Dr. Dhingra suggests coming in sooner rather than later. “There are so many arbitrary pseudo-scientific ‘rules' consumers feel they need to follow or they feel they’re doing their routines inadequately,” he warns. “By the time they come to our office, they’ve been through the wringer and they’re frustrated and need someone to guide them through the mess.” 

## **The Takeaway**
From medical dermatology to aesthetic medicine, there are no shortage of things to talk about with your dermatologist. While your provider has a list of questions he or she will ask you during regular visits, it is up to you to come ready with inquiries that pertain to your skin, desires, and concerns. Sure, [reading the label](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler) might leave you with more questions than answers, but a dermatologist will be able to give you the lowdown on creating a skincare routine (both at home and in office) that works for you. From sunscreen to skin conditions, don’t be shy about asking your dermatologist about anything you can do to better take care of your skin — they’ll be happy to answer.

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Expert Opinion Collection | The AEDITION

Expert Opinion

You go to them with questions about creams, ingredients, and lasers. But when you speak with your dermatologist, is there anything you’re not asking? We asked the experts to share what they wish you would inquire about. 

Skincare And Cosmetic Dermatology Questions Your Dermatologist Wants You To Ask 

Psst! Here’s What You Should Be Asking Your Dermatologist 

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Whether it's monthly facials or quarterly Botox® appointments, minimally invasive and non-invasive cosmetic treatments have become a routine part of many people's beauty regimens thanks to their expediency and lack of downtime. Treating signs of aging, skin tone, sun damage, sagging skin, acne scars, and even a double chin (to name a few!) is all possible without going under the knife, but the results don't last forever.

So, how often do these non-invasive treatments need to be performed in order to maintain your desired results? Here, we break down the ideal frequency for some of the most popular non-surgical procedures.

### **Chemical Peel**
Whether you're looking for a quick radiance boost or a deep resurfacing, chemical peels can treat everything from visible signs of aging (think: fine lines and sun damage) to hyperpigmentation and scarring. The type of result you see and how often you can repeat the treatment depends on the strength of the acid(s) involved. Generally speaking, they are classified as [light](https://aedit.com/procedure/superficial-chemical-peels), [medium](https://aedit.com/procedure/medium-depth-chemical-peels), or [deep](https://aedit.com/procedure/deep-chemical-peels).

- **Light Chemical Peel**: Also known as a superficial chemical peel, an alpha hydroxy acids is used to lightly exfoliate the epidermis (read: outer) layer of the skin. Minor flaking may occur in the days after treatment, and the radiance-boosting benefits often last a couple of weeks. Treatments can be repeated every three to six weeks.
- **Medium Chemical Peel**: Medium depth chemical peels, which typically involve trichloroacetic acid (TCA), reach the papillary dermis layer of the skin (the uppermost layer of the dermis) and can correct uneven skin tone and texture. Patients can expect to deal with peeling skin for up to 10 days post-treatment, and the procedure can be repeated every three to six months for prolonged results.  
- **Deep Chemical Peel**: If ever there were a case for one-and-done, it would be this. The intensely exfoliating treatment reaches the lower layer of the dermis, which allows it to completely resurface the skin. Up to three months of recovery time may be needed to heal, and the procedure is rarely performed more than once on a single patient.

### **CoolSculpting®**
This non-surgical liposuction alternative permanently destroys fat cells by freezing targeted areas. The body contouring treatment is often used to treat stubborn fat deposits on the stomach, hips, thighs, and chin area. After one session, [Coolsculpting®](https://aedit.com/procedure/cool-sculpting) patients can expect to see a 25 to 30 percent fat reduction within about four months. A series of one to three treatments spaced at least 60 days apart are often needed to fully treat each problem area.

### **Dermal Filler** 
Injectable filler has become one of the gold standards of minimally invasive aesthetics thanks to ability to reshape the face sans surgery. From temporarily mimicking the effects of surgery (hi, [liquid rhinoplasty](https://aedit.com/procedure/liquid-rhinoplasty)) to reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, [dermal filler](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-dermal-fillers) comes in a variety of forms that treat different areas and last for different lengths of time.

- **Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Filler**: The most temporary option is found under brand names like Juvederm®, Belotero®, and Restylane® and lasts six to 12 months as the body absorbs the particles.
- **Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Filler**: CaHA injectables like Radiesse® can be expected to last 12 to 18 months thanks to the thicker viscosity that is ideal for treating deeper lines and wrinkles.
- **Polylactic Acid (PLA) Filler**: More than just a filler, PLA products like Sculptra® are classified as 'collagen stimulators' thanks to their ability to help skin naturally rebuild collagen over time, in addition to smoothing lines for 18 to 24 months.
- **Polymethyl-methacrylate Microspheres (PMMA) Filler**:  Bellafill® is the only FDA-approved PMMA injectable treatment on the market. The synthetic, biocompatible substance takes the shape of a microsphere under the skin that provides structure and firmness for about five years.
- **Polyalkylimide Filler**: Semi-permanent injections like Aquamid® have a layer of collagen form around them over time that can boost the filler-like results that already last for five-plus years.

### **Kybella®**
FDA approved to treat moderate to severe submental fat, the deoxycholic acid injection can eliminate a double chin and provide jawline definition. While the results are known to be long lasting, multiple [Kybella®](https://aedit.com/procedure/kybella) treatments may be needed to achieve desired results. A single treatment consists of up to 50 injections spaced one-centimeter apart, and up to six single treatments (staggered at least one month apart) may be administered. 
 
### **Laser Hair Removal** 
The laser therapy treatment is one of the most common cosmetic procedures in the U.S. and involves heating and killing the hair follicle to prevent future hair growth. Sessions are scheduled every four to six weeks to complement the natural hair growth cycle, with six to eight typically needed for full results. While [electrolysis](https://aedit.com/procedure/electrolysis) is the procedure FDA-approved for permanent hair removal, [laser hair removal](https://aedit.com/procedure/laser-hair-removal) touch ups are usually only needed every six to 12 months (if at all).

### **Laser Skin Resurfacing**
Like chemical peels, lasers can be used to treat a variety of skin concerns ranging from superficial to deeply resurfacing depending on the strength of the product used. Generally speaking, lasers fall into two categories, non-wounding and wounding, and the results can be judged accordingly.

- **Non-Ablative Laser Treatments**: Non-wounding lasers like [pulsed light](https://aedit.com/procedure/ipl), [pulsed dye lasers](https://aedit.com/procedure/pulsed-dye-laser), and [fractional](https://aedit.com/procedure/nonablative-fractional-lasers) lasers do not remove layers of skin, which means an initial series of treatments spaced four to six weeks apart will be for best results. From there, treatment plans can be restarted or touch ups can be administered a couple times a year, as skin tone or texture concerns return.
- **Ablative Laser Treatments**: These wounding treatments include [carbon dioxide](https://aedit.com/procedure/ablative-co2-laser) (CO2) and [erbium](https://aedit.com/procedure/ablative-erbium-laser) lasers that remove the outer layers of skin. Typically used to correct concerns in one treatment (versus the many treatments needed with non-ablative devices), results last several years.

### **Microneedling**
The collagen-inducing therapy is a minimally invasive procedure that stimulates the body's natural healing mechanisms to address skin concerns like laxity, fine lines, wrinkles, scarring, stretch marks, and pigmentation. Microneedles puncture the skin's surface to create micro wounds that activate collagen production. Combining [microneedling](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling) with [platelet-rich plasma](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-prp) or [radiofrequency](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-radiofrequency) can boost the results, but a series of three to six treatments spaced four to six weeks apart is usually needed to see best results.  

### **Neurotoxin Injections** 
Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) injections temporarily paralyze underlying muscles to prevent contraction and smooth the appearance of fines lines and wrinkles (think: crow's feet, horizontal forehead lines, and frown lines). While they are colloquially called 'Botox,' the Allergan-manufactured injectable is actually one of four approved by the FDA. [Botox®, Dysport®, Jeuveau®, and Xeomin®](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin) each come from different pharmaceutical companies and have their own unique formulations, though each can be expected to last about three to four months.

### **Theadlift** 
If a non-surgical facelift is what you're after, [thread lifts](https://aedit.com/procedure/thread-lift) provide lifting and firming effects for six months to one year (i.e. until the threads dissolve). The goal of a thread lift is to reposition underlying skin tissue by weaving a dissolvable polypropylene thread in a cross-hatch or basket weave pattern under the targeted area to provide an immediate lifting effect, in addition to long term collagen stimulation. 

### **Ultherapy®** 
Ultrasonic skin tightening, like [Ultherapy®](https://aedit.com/procedure/ultrasound-skin-tighteningultherapy), utilizes concentrated ultrasound waves to create heat deep within the dermis that triggers the body's natural collagen and elastin production. Most patients only need one treatment to start and maintenance sessions beginning one- to two-years after the first procedure can sustain and improve the results.

## **The Takeaway**
Unlike [cosmetic surgery](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-long-do-cosmetic-surgery-plastic-surgery-results-last), which often requires weeks or months of recovery time, many non-invasive procedures allow patients to enjoy results with little to no downtime. What non-surgical procedures lack in invasiveness, however, they often make up for in maintenance. In addition to needing a series of treatments in order to see results (think: three microneedling appointments spaced four to six weeks apart), routine touch ups (like going in for more Botox® every three to four months) will likely be needed. Consulting with a [board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon](https://aedit.com/aedition/medical-board-certification-in-plastic-surgery-cosmetic-dermatology) will ensure you are on the best treatment plan for your needs.

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From Botox® and filler to microneedling and ultrasonic skin tightening, here’s a guide to how frequently non-invasive treatments need to be performed in order to maintain your desired results.

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