Can I Exercise After Botox? Insights from Annie Chiu, MD

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Staying fit and fabulous seems to be the mantra of the modern age. But when it comes to combining fitness routines with cosmetic treatments like Botox, questions abound. “Can I hit the gym after my Botox session?” is a common query circling the wellness and beauty forums. To shed light on this intriguing subject, Annie Chiu, MD, one of the nation’s foremost experts in Botox and neuromodulators, provides her opinion.

The Exercise Effect on Botox: Myth or Fact?

Dr. Annie Chiu, a distinguished dermatologist at The Derm Institute, clarifies the relationship between physical activity and the longevity of Botox effects. A recent study from July 2023 hinted that those with an active lifestyle might see a swifter decline in Botox’s muscle-relaxing magic. Dr. Chiu elaborates that an increased activity load on muscles from intense workouts could theoretically lead to a quicker metabolic clearance of Botox. This increased activity level may even shorten how long fillers last. So, for fitness enthusiasts, it might be a balancing act between maintaining peak physical condition and optimizing treatment outcomes.

Personalization is Key

According to Dr. Chiu, Botox is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The intricate interplay of dosage, individual metabolism, genetic factors, and yes—activity levels—contributes to the varied duration of Botox’s wrinkle-reducing prowess. It’s a symphony of elements where even the intensity of facial expressions during say, weightlifting, plays a role. A runner’s high might just translate to a quicker return of that furrowed brow.

In the Afterglow of Botox: Post-Treatment Tips

Immediately after Botox injections, taking a very brief hiatus from the gym could be beneficial. Dr. Chiu states theoretically, the spike in circulation and muscle contractions post-workout may dilute Botox’s effectiveness. Thus, not scheduling intense workouts immediately after Botox treatment could improve the duration of results and minimize side effects like bruising.

The Verdict: Does Exercise Affect Botox?

Exercise might fast-track Botox metabolism, but it’s not the sole factor at play. The same results could be observed in non-exercisers with a naturally high metabolic rate or those prone to expressive facial antics.

Botox and Beyond: Dr. Annie Chiu’s Legacy of Excellence

Recognized by Elle Magazine as a “Skin Genius,” Dr. Chiu’s credentials are as impressive as her commitment to patient care. Dr. Chiu isn’t just a scholar of Botox; she is a virtuoso with over a million units to her name. Ranking in the top echelons of U.S. injectors for neuromodulators like Botox, Daxxify, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin, she has honed the art and science of these treatments to achieve natural-looking, satisfaction-rich results.

Envision a you that’s refreshed, with softened lines and improved skin quality—Botox could be your ticket there. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Chiu and embark on an anti-aging rejuvenation journey tailored to your skin’s unique qualities. Contact The Derm Institute to begin this transformative adventure.

 

Daxxify: 5 Things to Know About the New Botox Alternative

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In late 2022, the FDA approved Daxxify, a Botox-like injectable for facial wrinkle and line reduction in adult women and men. It is in a family of aesthetic injectables known as neuromodulators, which include Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin. However, the impact these established injectables typically have are similar but slightly different due to unique formulations. With the very recent FDA approval, Daxxify or “Daxi”, is only currently available in limited select markets and offices. The Derm Institute and Dr. Annie Chiu is proud to be one of the exclusive offices with early access for patients who are looking to be treated with Daxxify.

What is Daxxify?

Daxxify, also referred to as “Daxi,” is a similar neuromodulator to those brands on the market that we are already familiar with, like Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin. The critical difference is that a peptide is attached to the neurotoxin, which allows muscles to absorb and uptake more of the active ingredient.

Daxxify is used to treat frown lines (the “11s”), forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet, neck bands, and any other dynamic wrinkle  just like the established neurotoxins we’ve used for years. It can also decrease sweating in your palms and armpits and help reduce grinding or TMJ symptoms, just like its predecessors.

So, what’s different about Daxi? In clinical trials submitted to the FDA for approval, eighty percent of participants using Daxxify had benefits for up to 6 months, which is almost double the duration of current neuromodulators on the market, such as Botox and Dysport, which on average last 3-4 months. Daxxify allows patients to have more flexibility in choosing the best wrinkle treatment specifically to their lifestyle its increased duration of results. This is ideal for patients who have busy lifestyles and easier maintenance. Here is more information we think you should know about Daxi.

1: Botox Comparison

All neurotoxins need proteins to help penetrate targeted muscles and wrinkles, and Botox and Dysport use certain accessory proteins for that job. However, Daxxify is the first neuromodulator to use a unique peptide to make Daxxify longer-lasting. Formulated without albumin, Daxxify is also the first and only vegan neurotoxin on the market today.

Daxi or Daxxify was originally developed as a topical alternative medication to offer Botox benefits–scientists attached a peptide to the neurotoxin to help increase the product absorption into the skin and muscle. While this topical variant did not achieve enough penetration through the skin, scientists discovered that their new formulation offered superior wrinkle-reducing benefits when injected into the targeted muscle.

2: Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Daxi?

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Annie Chiu says almost anyone who has used  Botox or Dysport or is looking for dynamic wrinkle reduction (most commonly in areas like the glabella, crow’s feet, or forehead, will be suitable candidates for Daxxify. In addition, she points to patients who have short-term Botox duration of benefits because of a higher metabolism as being particularly good candidates. Also, some patients have particularly longstanding or stubborn etched lines, especially in the glabella or “11s” of frown lines between the brows, Daxxify can be used for not only better results, but the longer duration will lead to a retraining of these muscles and produce a more softened relaxed effect at baseline. But, of course, this is a conversation longtime Botox users would need to have with Dr. Chiu during a consultation to see what neuromodulators are best for them. At The Derm Institute, Dr. Annie Chiu uniquely customizes different brands of neuromodulators in different areas of the face, offering a bespoke treatment with the best combination of results and duration that is best for your unique features and lifestyle. 

3: Daxxify Treatment Sites

Dr. Chiu recommends Daxi to her patients who are looking for longer-lasting with outcome duration compared to their current Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, or Xeomin regimen. Daxxify can be used for any area with dynamic wrinkles, most commonly it is the glabella aka frown lines, forehead horizontal lines, and crow’s feet, but like all neuromodulators, Daxi can be artfully used to balance the entire face, including treatment of masseters or TMJ, neck bands, neck tightening, downturned mouth, gummy smiles, to induce a lip flip or brow lift, decrease bunny lines, and chin peppling. Dr. Chiu’s unique style is full face and neck evaluation and treatment for true harmony and optimization, not just the basic areas that most injectors are limited to treating.

Daxxify’s potential is specifically promising for women and men looking to sustain a relaxed forehead with fewer visits to the office. Daxxify is currently only being offered in a select group of offices in the United States, and as a key opinion leader in aesthetics, Dr. Chiu is pioneering the use of longer-lasting Daxxify. With multiple neuromodulators now on the market, treating wrinkles in a natural way has become a complex treatment to perfect, and it takes a well-trained and artistic injector who understands skin structure and facial anatomy.

4: Alternative Uses For Daxi

Like Botox, Daxxify has alternative uses that help our patients deal with medical issues and aesthetics. These treatments are designed to help adults with their quality of life. They include:

Grinding or Clenching of the Jaw (TMJ) 

Treatment of the jaw muscles can help with aching, soreness, or headaches associated with teeth grinding. Daxxify treatment in masseters can be used both symptomatically and to create a more slender, heart-shaped lower face. 

Eyelid Spasms

With its benefits for blocking nerve endings, it also stops muscle spasms that may cause eyelid twitching. So patients with uncontrolled blinking and narrowed eyelids were the first to see benefits from neuromodulator injections.

Excess Sweating

Neuromodulators are excellent treatments to help patients who experience excessive sweating. If antiperspirant products don’t help much, then Daxxify can reduce this issue of excessive underarm sweating.

5: No Downtime

Daxi involves no downtime or significant recovery. You can return to your usual routine once we complete the treatment. Bruising is very uncommon. 

The Bottom Line

So the question is simple: Is Daxxify the new Botox?

Daxi is not a Botox replacement, but it will be another neuromodulator option to offer our patients a more customized approach to wrinkle and fine-line reduction. Now that Daxxify has FDA approval and works so well, it will allow our patients to have an additional option regarding dynamic wrinkles and fine lines. If you are looking for a longer-lasting alternative to botox with perhaps only twice-a-year treatments for maintenance, or you have found your current Botox duration to be unsatisfactory, Daxxify may be an option for you.

Taking the Next Step With Dr. Chiu

Neuromodulator treatments are an easy yet effective way for men and women to maintain their youthful complexion well into their 30s, 40s, and beyond. For more information, contact Dr. Annie Chiu at The Derm Institute in Redondo Beach, California, by calling (310) 939-9800 or contacting us online to schedule a consultation.

What Is Brotox, and Why Is It Becoming So Popular?

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Often referred to as “Brotox,” more men are seeking regular Botox treatments than ever. In fact, the number of men seeking Botox has risen by a surprising 355% percent over the past 15 years. Despite its appealing name, Brotox is precisely the same procedure as the Botox injections received by women to smooth away fine lines and wrinkles and create a more youthful appearance that will help boost the patient’s self-confidence. Those men who have undergone this treatment will attest to how much misperception is around this procedure.

No, men do not need to look frozen. No men do not need to look lineless. Subtle treatment differences between genders needs an expertise like Dr. Annie Chiu to guide. The goal is a rested refreshed appearance, and a preventative plan towards slowing down looking tired or aged. The goal is impactful improvement that is so natural no one will notice. It almost just appears like healthier skin.

Since this treatment is generally quick and easy to administer, it’s often referred to as a “lunchtime procedure,” since it can be scheduled during one’s lunch break. It typically requires only 15- to 20-minutes with no discomfort and no downtime afterward.

Men and women of all ages choose Botox treatment to help treat dynamic movement lines like the expression lines on the forehead, the “11 lines” between the eyes, and fine lines or crow’s feet at the corner of the eyes when they smile. And the best part is that the results are readily apparent within 2-7 days following treatment and last anywhere from 3-6 months.

As an expert injector, board-certified Dr. Annie Chiu of The Derm Institute in Manhattan Beach, CA, has mastered the art of Botox injections. She can help patients achieve natural-looking facial rejuvenation that turns back time without ever looking “frozen” or “done.” Having participated in numerous studies on Botox and as an Allergan Black Diamond level and Galderma Presidential injector, she has the knowledge and skill to produce results that will have you radiating confidence in no time.

How Does Botox Work?

Botox is a neuromodulator capable of binding the receptors in the muscles. It is administered via tiny injections that soften the appearance of movement-related facial wrinkles.

By blocking neurotransmitters that trigger the muscle’s ability to contract, Botox reduces the activity of the muscles in the area targeted, which stops wrinkles from being able to form. Usually requiring less than 15 minutes to perform, Botox injections make it the perfect treatment for even the busiest schedules.

Why Is Brotox Becoming So Popular?

While men choose Botox treatment for similar reasons to women, there are three common reasons among men considering or who have already had this injectable treatment.

Men aren’t immune to the aging process

With changing social norms and a shifting focus on our online presence, men increasingly want to undo the effects of time and look a little younger, more rested, and energized. This trend explains the increasing emphasis on physical appearance for both men and women and why cosmetic procedures like Botox or “Brotox” are becoming highly sought after.

Growing need to remain competitive in today’s job market.

The job market is constantly becoming more competitive, with a perceived direct link between one’s physical appearance and career success. Many men who want to stay competitive in their careers decide to take advantage of Botox to maintain that virile, energized look displayed by younger colleagues.

Improve self-esteem and quality of life

As for women, men can also benefit from the confidence-boosting younger profile provided by Botox. When you know you look your best on the outside, you tend to also feel better about yourself inside, with a positive effect on your overall sense of happiness, wellness, and quality of life.

Taking the Next Step with a Brotox Treatment With Dr. Chiu

There is no need to feel awkward, Brotox treatments are an easy yet effective way for men to maintain their youthful complexion well into their 30s, 40s, and beyond. For more information on Brotox with Dr. Annie Chiu at her practice in Redondo Beach, California, call us at (310) 939-9800 or contact us online to schedule a personalized consultation.

Botox vs. Fillers, What’s the Difference? | The Derm Institute

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Almost everyone has heard of Botox, but few people understand the differences between Botox and the vast range of injectables known as fillers.

Botox and fillers are two common but very different aesthetic skin treatments. Both are designed primarily to restore youthfulness to your facial features, which is essential in today’s online world.

Here we talk about the similarities, differences, and benefits of Botox vs. fillers so that you are better prepared for when you contact The Derm Institute in North Redondo Beach, California. At her boutique practice, Dr. Annie Chiu will create an individualized plan for you by carefully selecting the best combination of injectables that will help you regain your youthful appearance without surgery.

What Are the Differences Between Botox and Fillers?

The aging process leads us to start looking older than our years, and as it undermines our self-confidence, many of us become determined to find a solution. That solution could well be in the form of either Botox, injectable fillers, or even both.

You may have been lead to believe that Botox and fillers are the same. However, this is far from the truth. So how do you choose between Botox and other aesthetic injectables for your face, especially with all the different brand names on the market?

Both Botox and dermal fillers are delivered via injection and used to treat wrinkles on the face. But this is where the similarities end.

Botox®

Botox (together with Jeuveau, Dysport, and Xeomin) is a botulinum toxin type A neuromodulator that best treats facial expression areas such as crow’s feet, frown lines, and the ‘11s’ between the eyebrows. It is also used to treat neurological disorders that cause muscle weakness and treat migraines and other medical conditions.

As a wrinkle treatment, these neuromodulators are primarily used to treat “dynamic” wrinkles naturally occurring around the eyes and mouth and between the eyebrows, which become more pronounced with age. These injections, which take just a few minutes, relax the muscles near these wrinkles. By preventing the muscles from moving, the appearance of dynamic wrinkles is reduced.

Dermal fillers

Dr. Chiu expertly administers dermal fillers to treat wrinkles on the face and plump up the lips or cheeks that have to begin to sag due to aging. Whereas Botox relaxes the muscles underneath the skin, fillers add subtle volume to restore a more natural look to the face. A variety of fillers having a unique composition are also on offer, including Juvederm, Voluma, Vollure, Volbella, and Restylane, to name just a small selection. Dr. Chiu will help you determine which filler will benefit you the most when you come in for your personalized consultation.

Find Out About Botox Versus Fillers with Dr. Annie Chiu

Explore the differences between Botox and dermal fillers and how they can help restore your youthful appearance by contacting Dr. Annie Chiu at her practice in Redondo Beach, California. She offers you the most advanced age-defying rejuvenation solutions, including injectable neuromodulators such as Botox, Jeuveau, Dysport, and Xeomin, and her expertly administered range of dermal fillers.

Call (310) 939-9800 or contact us online today to schedule your personalized consultation!

Botox & Filler During COVID: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

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You already know that the demand for Botox and dermal fillers has increased considerably over the past few months. Stay-at-home orders have led to delays in continuing our treatments, and our feelings of stress and anxiety are worsened when we see our tense, wrinkled, and furrowed faces reflected back at us during those nonstop Zoom video calls. Now more than ever, we don’t want to look tired or old or angry.

To maintain the results of your earlier visits to The Derm Institute, you may already have enjoyed products with crosslinked hyaluronic acids like SkinMedica’s HA5 rejuvenating hydrator from our Online Skincare Store. Products like these help your skin maintain its plump and hydrated appearance and are great additions to boost your filler treatments as you plan to schedule your next visit.

Your next visit to Dr. Annie Chiu will look a lot different from the last time, even before you walk in the door. You have already noticed from our website that we have additional safety precautions to protect you, our staff, and other patients from contracting the coronavirus.

Is It Safe To Get Botox and Fillers Again?

We are all about keeping you and others safe

When scheduling your appointment, please pay special attention to our website’s pop-up checklist with our new COVID office protocol. It highlights our safety precautions: On your arrival, wait to be called to enter the office, wear a mask or face covering, use the hand sanitizer provided, let us take your temperature, and be sure to let us know if you have any worrying health symptoms or if you’ve been in contact with anyone who has tested positive with COVID.

What Happens During the Treatment?

After you have checked in and as you’re escorted to the treatment room, you’ll notice our office may seem emptier than the last time you visited. When your doctor comes into the room to discuss and provide treatment, she’ll be wearing two masks (N95 and face mask) over her nose and mouth, as well as a clear protective shield covering her face.

What’s Your Next Rejuvenation Treatment Going to Be at North Redondo Beach, CA?

Dr. Chiu’s boutique practice offers the most advanced rejuvenation approaches, including injectables such as Botox® and  Dermal Fillers. Be sure to ask about her newer generation of hyaluronic acid fillers known as Resilient Hyaluronic Acid (RHA) Fillers. Manufactured to closely resemble the natural hyaluronic acids found in your own body, they allow your skin to stretch and integrate beautifully even in areas of high movement or expression. You’ll enjoy some of the most natural but transformative results, giving you smooth contours and a youthful, soft, and rested look for up to 15 months. Perfect for those Zoom calls!

You can feel reassured in our safety precautions and the superior care you’ll receive by renowned physician Dr. Annie Chiu and our amazing office staff. Call us today at (310) 939-9800 or contact us online to schedule your personalized consultation!

Help! My Botox and Fillers are Wearing Off!

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We are now deep into California’s Safer at Home order, and our manicures, hair dyes, and omg—botox and fillers maybe starting to wear off. Here’s the good news—if you have getting these procedures regularly, research shows that your results may last longer than you expect. The bad news? Nothing over the counter really replaces the effects of botox and fillers.

So what can you do to maintain the results as long possible?

  • Self-care and trying to control stress (during stressful times) keeps your immune system strong and inflammation down.
  • Up your skincare game! Fillers look much better with hydrated skin, and products with crosslinked hyaluronic acids like SkinMedica’s HA5 help the skin maintain plump and hydrated, and is a great adjunct to boost filler treatments.
  • Smile. Overuse of frown muscles, or squinting at a computer or phone can make your dynamic wrinkles between the brows and crow’s feet stronger.
  • Some small studies have shown zinc supplementation possibly can increase the duration of botox effects. Since zinc also boosts the immune system, this may be the time to incorporate into your supplements.
  • Limit sun exposure and wear sunscreen. Even if you are indoors more, UVA rays penetrate windows, and blue light from increased digital exposure all contribute to breakdown of collagen.
  • Exercise to keep healthy, but prolonged or extreme exercise and diet does lead to an increased metabolic effect on these products and their benefits can wear off faster.

Most importantly, stay safe and socially distance, because that means we can all reunite and do these treatments all the sooner!

3 Unexpected Uses for Botox

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Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures currently on the market. Its non-invasive, long-lasting solution that requires no downtime makes the procedure appeal to men and women alike. Most commonly known for treating dynamic facial wrinkles, Botox can also be used for a variety of concerns. Dr. Annie Chiu created the below infographic on three unexpected uses for Botox:

  1. Nose – Lift a drooping nose tip.
  2. Smile – Treat a smile that shows too much gum.
  3. Sweat – Help reduce excessive sweating.

If you’re interested in seeing how Botox can help you, schedule a consultation with The Derm Institute today!