What Do Botox and Fillers Do to the Skin?

When you hear about Botox and dermal fillers, you might immediately think of wrinkle-smoothing injections or celebrities who always seem to look youthful. But these treatments aren’t just about vanity—they’re medical procedures designed to enhance the health and appearance of your skin.



At Northshore Dermatology, we know that understanding how Botox and fillers actually work can help patients feel confident, informed, and excited about their results. Here’s what these treatments really do beneath the surface—and how they can help restore and rejuvenate your skin.

What Is Botox and How Does It Work?

Botox® (botulinum toxin type A) is a purified protein used in very small, safe doses to temporarily relax targeted facial muscles. These muscles are responsible for the “dynamic wrinkles” that form when you smile, frown, squint, or raise your eyebrows. Over time, repeated facial expressions cause fine lines and deeper wrinkles to appear on the skin’s surface.

Here’s what Botox does:

• Prevents muscle contractions: Botox works by blocking nerve signals that tell specific facial muscles to contract. When those muscles relax, the overlying skin smooths out.
• Softens existing wrinkles: Because the muscles can’t pull on the skin as forcefully, lines and wrinkles gradually become less noticeable.
• Prevents new wrinkles: By minimizing repetitive movement, Botox also helps slow the formation of new wrinkles over time.
• Creates smoother, younger-looking skin: The skin appears refreshed and relaxed—not “frozen”—when administered correctly by a trained professional.
  
  

What to expect:
A Botox treatment takes just a few minutes, with minimal discomfort and no downtime. Results typically appear within 3–7 days and last about 3–4 months. Over time, many patients notice that their wrinkles don’t return as deeply as before, even after the effects fade.

What Are Dermal Fillers and How Do They Work?

While Botox works on the muscles that cause wrinkles, dermal fillers address a different concern—loss of volume and structure in the face. As we age, our skin loses collagen, elastin, and fat, leading to sagging, hollow areas, and deeper folds.

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to restore that lost volume and improve facial contours. Most modern fillers are made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance naturally found in your skin that helps maintain hydration and plumpness.

Here’s what fillers can do for your skin:

• Add volume: Fillers “plump up” areas that have thinned over time, such as the cheeks, lips, or under the eyes.
• Smooth wrinkles and folds: They fill in static wrinkles—those that are visible even when your face is at rest—like smile lines and marionette lines.
• Enhance facial contours: Fillers can define your jawline, chin, or cheekbones for a more balanced look.
• Improve skin texture and hydration: Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture, leaving the skin more supple and hydrated.
  
  

What to expect:
Filler treatments are quick—usually 30 to 60 minutes—and results are visible immediately. Some mild swelling or bruising may occur, but it typically resolves within a few days. The effects can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the type of filler and the area treated.

Choosing the Right Treatment

If you’re unsure whether Botox or fillers are right for you, here are some general guidelines:

• Botox is ideal for wrinkles caused by facial movements, such as frown lines, forehead lines, or crow’s feet around the eyes.
• Fillers are better for restoring lost volume, smoothing deeper wrinkles, or enhancing facial features like lips and cheeks.
• Combination treatments often work best. Many patients benefit from a mix of Botox and fillers to address multiple signs of aging—relaxing muscles that cause wrinkles and replenishing volume where it’s been lost.
  
  

Your dermatologist will evaluate your skin, facial structure, and goals during a consultation to create a customized treatment plan that provides the most natural, balanced results.

What Happens to the Skin After Treatment?

Botox and fillers don’t just make your skin look smoother—they can actually help improve its overall health and appearance.

• With Botox: When muscle contractions are reduced, the skin has time to “rest.” Over time, this can improve elasticity and prevent permanent creasing.
• With Fillers: The hyaluronic acid in most fillers helps boost hydration, which improves the skin’s glow and texture. Some fillers also stimulate collagen production, enhancing your skin’s firmness and resilience over the long term.
  
  

Patients often report that their skin looks not only smoother, but also healthier, fresher, and more radiant after treatment.

Are Botox and Fillers Safe?

When performed by a qualified, experienced medical professional—such as a dermatologist—Botox and fillers are considered very safe. Both treatments have been FDA-approved for cosmetic use for many years.

However, choosing a skilled injector is crucial. At Northshore Dermatology, our dermatologists are experts in facial anatomy and advanced injection techniques. This ensures precise, natural results while minimizing the risk of side effects.

Mild bruising, swelling, or redness can occur but usually resolves quickly. Serious complications are rare when treatments are done correctly and in a medical setting.

How to Maintain Your Results

While Botox and filler results aren’t permanent, there are ways to help them last as long as possible:

• Follow post-treatment instructions: Avoid strenuous exercise, excessive sun exposure, or massaging the treated area for 24–48 hours.
• Protect your skin: Wear sunscreen daily to prevent sun damage, which can shorten your results.
• Stay hydrated: Good hydration helps maintain the effects of hyaluronic acid fillers.
• Schedule regular maintenance appointments: Botox typically lasts 3–4 months, while filler touch-ups depend on the product used. Your dermatologist will create a personalized schedule to keep your skin looking its best.

Why Choose Northshore Dermatology?

At Northshore Dermatology, we take a comprehensive approach to aesthetic care—combining medical expertise with an artistic touch. Our team uses the latest techniques and technology to ensure natural-looking, balanced results that enhance your features rather than change them.

We believe that cosmetic dermatology isn’t just about looking younger—it’s about feeling confident, refreshed, and like the best version of yourself.

Whether you’re curious about Botox, fillers, or other skin rejuvenation treatments, we’ll guide you through every step with transparency, care, and precision.

Final Thoughts

Botox and fillers are two of the most effective, non-surgical ways to rejuvenate your skin. Botox works by relaxing muscles to smooth wrinkles caused by expression, while fillers restore lost volume, plump the skin, and enhance your natural contours. Together, they can create a refreshed, youthful appearance that looks completely natural.

If you’re ready to learn more about how these treatments can help you achieve your skincare goals, contact Northshore Dermatology today to schedule your consultation. Our experienced team is here to help you look and feel your absolute best—with results that are as beautiful as they are natural.