Much of what I know about Botox is courtesy of Kim Kardashian. Just the idea of injecting my under-eyes and jaw nauseates me. I’m like Rachel from F.R.I.E.N.D.S in that even eye drops are a bit much for me. But if the idea of undergoing that doesn’t daunt you, there’s something else you might want to think about before opting for the procedure; because it can call for a ban on some skin-related products. I’m talking about your crystal-infused Gua Sha. Yeah.
Dr Nishita Ranka, Internationally Acclaimed Dermatologist, Medical Director & Founder of Dr Nishita’s Clinic for Skin, Hair & Aesthetics, explains to me that the process of Botox involves injecting parts of the face to smooth them over, slim them down, and rid the skin of age-related indications like wrinkling. Botox can diminish the appearance of lines on the forehead, crow’s feet around the eyes, and frown-like lines around the mouth.
But it does come with some restrictions, and one of them demands a hiatus from your beloved jade-infused Gua Sha. Because, like, in layman’s terms, the tool can distort your face by displacing the injection. Ouch. If you’re planning on getting Botox, you might want to consult an expert on the dos and don’ts of the procedure. I’ve also roped in a second expert, Dr Manjot Marwah, Award-Winning Celebrity Dermatologist, Hair Transplant Surgeon. Consultant & Director at ‘Dr Manjot’s Clinic”, to share her inputs with me on the subject. Because really – does Gua Sha ruin botox?
Your Crystal-Infused Gua Sha Is Not All That Skin-Loving
It’s said that Gua Sha can affect ‘neuro-modulator injections’. What are these injections, and are they used for Botox?
While the word sounds technical, the experts explain it to me simply. “Neuromodulators are essentially injections that relax your muscles and smooth over lines and wrinkles. One of the most popular brands of these injections is Botox,” says Dr Nishita.
Dr Manjot tells me that these injections excel at eliminating wrinkles, “Wrinkles occur when we frown or smile. The neuromodulator is injected into these muscles to weaken them temporarily in a way that the wrinkle softens or disappears, and is not seen in these expressions. Botox is a type of neuromodulator, but there are many similar neuromodulators in the market. They are mainly used for forehead lines, frown lines, crow’s feet, bunny lines, jawline slimming, and even for migraines and excessive sweating.”
How does something as soothing as a Gua Sha ruin your botox? What’s the result?
Can you use Gua Sha with botox or fillers? “If you do end up using Gua Sha post botox, let’s assume on the forehead, it might lead to ptosis — it occurs when your eyelid droops over your eye. Along the jawline — it can cause an asymmetry in your smile. This effect will last for 2-3 months, and there is nothing that can correct it — or make it go away. Certain studies mention nerve stimulation helps but that can vary,” says Dr Manjot. According to Dr Nishita, “It can displace the product from the site of the injection. This disrupts the process, and can distort the face.”
How long after botox can you Gua Sha?
Dr Manjot explains that results from Botox start showing in about a week — though it is safe after 48 hours of injection, she normally advises her patients to wait till the results start taking shape. Dr Nishita agrees. Though results start showing on the third or fourth day of Botox, you might have to wait for two or three weeks to see the before-after difference. That’s why she doesn’t recommend opting for any (facial) massages — or using any Gua Sha-like devices — for the first two weeks since they apply pressure on the muscles.
Any other face tools or external factors to avoid after getting Botox?
Dr Nishita dissuades clients from using any kind of skincare-related devices on the face for a minimum of 15 to 20 days following Botox. This doesn’t just include your Gua Sha — but your rollers and wands too. Dr Manjot leaves us with a couple of tips, “We do not recommend opting for facials or any other activities on the face — these procedures can displace the injection from its site,” she says. “Any tool that’s intended for massaging — like a jade-infused roller — must be avoided. Even microcurrent devices and facial yoga aren’t Botox-friendly. You must avoid strenuous exercises, and lying down or bending forward too much — make sure you’re sitting upright for a minimum of 4 hours post injections.”
Take notes, gals.
Featured Image: Instagram
