MEDICAL BOTOX – MORE THAN SKIN DEEP

When most people hear “Botox”, they picture smooth foreheads, softened frown lines and less visible scars. But behind the beauty buzz is a powerful therapeutic tool that has been improving patients’ quality of life long before it ever touched a wrinkle.

That’s because Botox is a neuromodulator – a purified form of the toxin botulinum, which temporarily relaxes targeted muscles. While it's best known for cosmetic applications, Botox has proven highly effective for:

Chronic migraines

Injected around the head and neck, Botox helps reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches by calming overactive nerves.

Eye twitching (blepharospasm)

For those with involuntary blinking or eye spasms, Botox can relax the muscles around the eyes and restore comfort.

Bell’s palsy

Botox can help balance facial movement, either by relaxing overactive muscles on the unaffected side or reducing unwanted movement on the affected side.

Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)

Teeth grinding (bruxism)

When injected into the jaw muscles, Botox can reduce clenching along with any associated jaw tension or pain — sometimes even slimming the face as a side effect.

Spasticity 

When it comes to the tightening of muscles that occurs as a result of continuous contraction that interferes with movement, speech, or normal muscle function, Botox is a reliable approach to help loosen contracted muscles and improve range of motion. 

It has been very effective, for instance, with stroke patients, neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis, injuries to the brain or spinal cord, and even paediatric cases of leg length discrepancy or similar conditions. Botox successfully blocks the nerve signals that cause overactive muscles to contract, helping to reduce tightness and improve mobility and comfort.

Gummy smiles 

For those who might be self-conscious about showing a bit too much gum when they smile, a small, precise dose of Botox can soften the upper lip’s retraction without changing your natural expression.

Overactive bladder 

Injecting Botox into the bladder wall calms the muscles that cause urgency, frequency, and incontinence — especially in people who haven’t responded well to medication.

Medical vs. cosmetic Botox 

The product may be the same, but when it comes medical Botox, the intention and injection strategy are very different:

• Site-specific – Injections are placed based on nerve pathways and muscular function, rather than aesthetic zones.

• Dose-adjusted – Depending on the condition, medical cases often require more units.

• Outcome-driven – The goal isn’t looks; it’s comfort, relief, and improved quality of life.

Medical botox also often requires a patient’s complete medical history, symptom tracking, and a treatment plan, especially when being used for chronic conditions.

Natural look, medical benefit

The beauty of Botox lies in its duality — it can just as easily smooth a wrinkle as it can silence a migraine. It has the power to relax a jawline and restore symmetry after nerve injury. For many, it’s not about vanity. It’s about getting back to normal.

If you’re wondering whether medical Botox might be right for you or someone you care about, we’re happy to discuss options that suit your specific needs. It just might make all the difference.

AGEING, REDEFINED

The secret of getting older gracefully is not so much about stopping time as it is about living well within it, by nourishing not only your skin, but also your soul. When it comes to the gift of ageing, though, we still have to contend with a combination of biological, environmental and lifestyle factors – including genetics, hormonal changes, cellular damage, and inflammation.  

Enter SkinCeuticals Advanced RGN-6, a regenerative cream formulated to visibly reverse as many as six telltale signs of ageing! Designed to work either in partnership with in-office laser procedures, or alone as part of your daily skincare routine, it’s the next generation of skin rejuvenation that targets six key dimensions of ageing: 

1. Firmness

2. Laxity

3. Smoothness

4. Brightness

5. Discolouration and

6. Wrinkles

It’s also gentle enough to be used on the most sensitive skin, as it contains no alcohol, parabens, or fragrance. 

Paired with laser treatments, Advanced RGN-6 optimises results while reducing recovery time. Your skin will be visibly smoother and more hydrated. Just apply the cream immediately after your laser treatment, then continue to use twice daily to enhance recovery and rejuvenation.

 
Used alone, the cream is perfect for daily application. After cleaning your skin and applying a SkinCeuticals Vitamin C antioxidant serum, use a couple of pumps of Advanced RGN-6 on your face, targeting the forehead, cheeks, chin and neck. Finish up with sunscreen. 

Patients have reported seeing aspects of age-related skin damage reduce in as little as a week: 

• -69% visible redness

• -36% acne marks 

• -26% dark spots 

• -18% wrinkles

• +35% smoothness and firmness 

The magic ingredients  

Among other key ingredients, Advanced RGN-6 contains SkinCeuticals’ patented Glyco-Repair™, which triggers barrier repair and renews skin texture; Eperuline to soothe the skin; Vitamin B3 to combat hyperpigmentation and strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier; and peptides, amino acids and ceramides, which support skin structure and prevent damage. 

With smart science and loving self-care, Advanced RGN-6  is the latest tool to help us age more slowly and more beautifully!  This Mother's Day, honour the women your life with the gift of radiant, youthful skin — the cream is perfect for busy Mums who deserve a little self-care. Call us to order yours today!

THE ULTIMATE SKINCARE TIPS FOR CARIBBEAN MOTHERS

Being a mother in the Caribbean comes with its own unique set of skin challenges; sun exposure, humidity, and even the stress of daily life can take a toll. 

Whether you're new at this in your 20s, a seasoned Mum in your 40s, or a glowing grandmother, taking care of your skin is essential. Here’s how to maintain healthy, radiant skin at every stage of motherhood, thanks to some insightful tips from our Serpentine Dermatology family... 

Mikaili Hamel-Smith Aesthetic Nurse

“If you’re a mother in your 20s, I would recommend incorporating azelaic acid into your skincare routine via our SkinCeuticals Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment. 

This oil-free, lightweight moisturiser – formulated with 2% alpha arbutin, 3% azelaic acid, and a 5.75% phyto botanical blend – is safe for use during pregnancy and is extremely effective in treating melasma and hyperpigmentation, two fairly common skin conditions that have the potential to worsen during pregnancy.

Phyto A+’s ingredients work beautifully together to target key factors of surface imperfections and dullness. Talk about regaining that famous pregnancy glow!”

Robyn Stauble, Medical Aesthetician

“As you enter your 30s, little signs of ageing may start to become noticeable. Whether it’s hormonal breakouts, fine lines or pigmentation, these things can be prevented and managed with good skin care. It’s all about prevention and protection to maintain a good foundation of healthy skin.

The use of antioxidants with Vitamin C (CE Ferulic or Serum 10) as part of your morning routine can help prevent environmental ageing and brighten your skin. Sunblock is a must every day and must be reapplied to be effective!”

Dr. Tonya Abraham-Ali, Dermatologist

“Forty is the age around which most people start seeing definite changes in their skin. While youth allows us some degree of flexibility, the truth is the sooner you start looking after your skin, the later in life these changes will become apparent, and the longer you will be thankful for investing in it early on with proper, age-appropriate skin care.

In my 40s, I realised there was no getting away from using retinol for as many nights as my skin would tolerate it. Having sensitive skin, I did have to titrate up in potency, but now but my skin is used to higher concentrations of retinol and it’s so obvious what a wonder drug this is. Nothing compares to Skinceuticals CE Ferulic. I apply it first thing in the morning before my sunblock, and it has been a game changer.  More recently, as peptides have become popular, I have also started to use Skinceuticals PTiox anti-wrinkle serum. I love the results and the glassy appearance it gives me on a daily basis.”

Helen Knowles, Serpentine Dermatology Patient 

“To maintain healthy glowing skin there are several key habits I incorporate into my daily routine. First, it’s essential to keep your face protected from the sun by using sunscreen every day. I personally rely on two SPF 50 sunscreens from the Skinceuticals brand for maximum protection. Additionally, I get professional LED light treatments done weekly at Serpentine. This can deliver better results than typical at home light masks. 

Prioritising a good night’s sleep is another crucial step for me. I aim for restful sleep when I can. Consistency is also key. I have established a solid skincare routine and always stick to it, especially my nighttime regimen. I never skip those crucial evening steps and always remove my makeup before bed. 

Finally, a balanced diet plays a big role in my skin’s health, I try to reduce alcohol, sugar, and soda intake while increasing my water consumption to keep my skin hydrated and nourished.”

No matter your age, beautiful skin starts with healthy habits, so if you need us to help you refresh your skincare routine, we’re just a call away! 

YOUR SKIN IS ALWAYS DOING SOMETHING NEW (AND SO ARE WE!)

When it comes to non-surgical facial rejuvenation, dermal fillers and bio-stimulators have become increasingly popular for achieving natural-looking youthful results. Of course, each treatment comes with its own unique properties and benefits – here’s how to understand the differences so you can make an informed choice. 

The go-to lip filler

Revanesse® Kiss™+ is specifically designed for lip augmentation, enhancing lip volume, defining shape, and even smoothing fine lines around the mouth. Its low to medium viscosity means that there are no lumps or bumps. Rather, it’s a smooth hyaluronic acid (HA) gel that beautifully plumps the area into which it is injected. 

• Benefits Natural-looking fullness, results that last from nine months to a year, and minimal swelling.

• What to expect A quick, in-office treatment with little to no downtime. Expect some mild swelling and bruising, though these typically subside within a few days.

• Is it for you? If you are looking to achieve plumper, more youthful lips with a soft and natural feel, then yes! It’s so important to pick the correct filler, especially for lips – and this one gives us the ability to smooth out any lines, creating a beautifully hydrated effect. 

The cheek & mid-face lifter

Juvederm Voluma, an ultra-thin HA filler, is perfect for smoothing out fine lines and restoring lost volume in the cheeks and mid-facial region, including “snookers lines” – those fine wrinkles that form around the mouth.

• Benefits Adds structure and lift, restores youthful contours, and lasts anywhere from 18 to 24 months.

• What to expect A quick treatment with immediately visible results. Mild swelling and tenderness may occur, but subsides within a week.

• Is it for you? Yes, if you are experiencing volume loss in the mid-face area or are looking for a subtle but noticeable lift.

The collagen booster 

Unlike traditional fillers, Sculptra is a bio-stimulator, which means it boosts collagen and elastin which providing some volume to the mid-face – great news for anyone 30+, which is when we start to lose collagen. Made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), instead of providing instant volume, it works by stimulating collagen production, gradually improving skin texture and firmness over time.

• Benefits Long-lasting collagen stimulation and natural-looking results that improve over several months, creating firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

• What to expect Multiple treatments may be needed, as results develop gradually over three to six months and lasting up to two years. There is minimal downtime and you can see results after as little as two sessions.

• Is it for you? If you are experiencing significant volume loss and skin laxity, or you have deep wrinkles, this treatment is a great way to achieve gradual, long-lasting rejuvenation.

Remember, each of these treatments serves a different purpose, so consulting with our team can help you determine which option aligns best with your aesthetic goals.

NEW LIFE FOR YOUR SKIN AT EVERY AGE

You know how certain people just have that glow and you wonder how they do it? We’re letting you in on some secrets…  

20s – Build a strong foundation

Now is the time to establish solid skincare habits that will serve you well in the decades to come.

• Use sunscreen Being this close to the equator is no joke! Use an SPF of 30 or higher every day to prevent premature ageing and hyperpigmentation. Hats, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing also help minimise sun damage.

• Hydrate Drink plenty of water and use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser to keep your skin looking plump. Our Oxygeneo facials are also great at keeping hydration locked in!

• Exfoliate A mild exfoliant twice a week – glycolic acid does the job nicely – helps remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. Our VI Peels are also very effective at exfoliation and skin firming.

• Eat well A healthy diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and omega-rich foods will keep your skin glowing.

30s – Guard your glow

As you step wholeheartedly into adulthood, this is the perfect decade in which to refine your routine.

• Introduce antioxidants Serums with Vitamin C help fight environmental damage and brighten your skin. See if our AnteAGE products are right for you, go over the counter, or try any of our SkinCeuticals serums.

• Prioritise eye care If those dreaded dark circles and puffiness start to show up, start using an eye cream with caffeine or peptides.

• Upgrade your moisturiser As collagen production slows, switch to a richer moisturiser to maintain elasticity.

• Get regular facials At this stage, facials become less of a luxury and more of a necessity, so make regular appointments to keep your skin refreshed and balanced.

40s & 50s – Embrace the power of anti-ageing

Your skin may become drier and start to show signs of ageing, so hydration and targeted treatments are crucial.

• Rev up the retinol This powerhouse ingredient boosts collagen and reduces fine lines.

• Select hydrating oils and serums Consider adding hyaluronic acid and facial oils to your regimen.

• Don’t neglect your neck Regularly apply sunscreen and moisturiser to your neck and hands to prevent sun damage and help keep those vulnerable areas supple. 

• Manage stress Exercise and mindfulness practices like yoga help keep stress at bay and make sure your skin stays vibrant.

60s & beyond – Grow and flow 

With the right care, you can still maintain a healthy complexion, even as you age.

• Embrace the extras Hydration is critical for mature skin, so opt for cream-based cleansers, thick moisturisers, and hydrating masks.

• Repair your skin barrier Ingredients like ceramides and peptides help strengthen ageing skin. Our CO2RE laser also yields excellent results. 

• Go gentle Avoid harsh scrubs and strong acids; instead, choose nourishing, soothing ingredients.

• Celebrate your skin Your skin has been with you through all the ups and downs of life — be grateful! A positive mindset and an achievable self-care routine can make all the difference in how you feel and look.

No matter your age, beautiful skin starts with healthy habits, so if you need us to help you refresh your skincare routine, we’re just a call away!