Dr Vivek Eranki, CEO of Cosmetique, an Australian brand of cosmetic, beauty and injectable clinics, has warned of potential risks associated with vaping, especially for those undergoing aesthetic treatments like Botox.
Recent observations from Cosmetique clinics suggest a substantial increase in patients who vape. Some clinics even report that as much as half their clientele are users of vaping products.
Dr Eranki highlights that vaping, initially touted as a safer substitute for cigarettes, is now under scrutiny as new research uncovers associated health risks. These risks also extend to the realm of cosmetic treatments, impacting the results and safety of procedures like Botox and fillers.
“Many individuals have switched to vaping due to the perception of it being less hazardous than traditional smoking. However, new studies have highlighted health concerns like nicotine addiction, respiratory issues, heart disease, and even some types of cancers,” said Dr Eranki.
One major concern raised by Dr Eranki is the adverse effect of vaping on skin health. Vaping has been linked to symptoms like increased skin dryness, a higher propensity for acne, early onset of wrinkles, and pigmentation issues. A vital factor is the deterioration of skin proteins like collagen and elastin, resulting in a loss of skin elasticity.
For those opting for Botox and similar treatments, vaping poses unique challenges. “Botox is a known brand of Botulinum Toxin. The nicotine in vaping products can disturb the absorption of treatments like this, making them less effective. It has the potential to constrict blood vessels, thereby limiting blood supply to areas where treatments are applied. This constriction can be detrimental to the optimal delivery of aesthetic procedures,” Dr Eranki said.
Beyond just nicotine, the chemical makeup of vaping products raises additional concerns. “E-cigarettes often include harmful chemicals. Some of these, like diacetyl, have been implicated in respiratory diseases. Furthermore, the presence of heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in these products introduces additional health concerns.”
For individuals still considering Botox or filler treatments, Dr Eranki offers some advice to counter the negative effects of vaping:
- Cease Vaping Before Treatments: “For best results and safety, it’s recommended to stop vaping two weeks before and after undergoing procedures,” advised Dr Eranki.
- Prioritise Hydration: As vaping can dehydrate the body, Dr Eranki suggests increasing water intake. “Proper hydration is paramount, especially when one is vaping, to ensure the durability of treatments like Botox.”
- Limit Sun Exposure: Dr Eranki emphasizes the importance of protecting skin from excessive sun exposure, especially when combined with vaping.
