Leading Cosmetic Expert: Urgent Warning - Why you shouldn’t vape if you have Botox

Dr Vivek Eranki, founder and CEO of Australia’s leading national brand of cosmetic, beauty and injectable clinics, Cosmetique, has noted an increase in patients who vape frequently. In some clinics, the rates are as high as 50 percent. It is important to understand the impact of vaping, especially on Botox and skin health.  

According to Dr Eranki, as vaping continues to be marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, emerging research highlights significant health risks and unveils its detrimental effects on aesthetic treatments like Botox and fillers.

“Vaping, while often considered a less harmful substitute for cigarettes, is now shown to carry a host of health risks including nicotine addiction, respiratory problems, heart disease, cancer, and other health problems like gum disease and tooth decay,” Dr Eranki said.

“New findings indicate the severe impact of vaping on skin health, including increased skin dryness, acne risk, premature wrinkles, dark spots, and mouth ulcers. Vaping can impair vital skin proteins, collagen, and elastin, leading to structural and elastic deterioration of the skin.”

Most patients who receive Botox and filler treatments wish to maximise the longevity of their treatment. Vaping adversely impacts the longevity and efficacy of popular aesthetic treatments.

“Botox is the most common brand of Botulinum Toxin. Nicotine, a main component in vaping products, interferes with the absorption of these treatments, reducing their effectiveness. It constricts blood vessels, which reduces blood flow to treatment areas and hinders the successful delivery of Botox or fillers to targeted muscles or tissues,” Dr Eranki said.

“Additionally, nicotine's capacity to break down collagen impacts the skin's ability to retain Botox or fillers. It can also increase the risk of side effects from these treatments, such as bruising, swelling, and allergic reactions.

“My concern is that, compared to cigarettes, vaping presents unique health risks that may make it potentially more dangerous.

“Unregulated flavorings in e-cigarettes often contain harmful chemicals, such as diacetyl, which have been linked to lung diseases. They can also contain heavy metals like lead and nickel, which accumulate in the body over time causing health complications. Lastly, vaping releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs), known irritants to the lungs and airways, and potential carcinogens.”

Dr Eranki outlines tips on how to reduce the impact of vaping on Botox and other aesthetic injectable treatments.

Cease vaping prior to Botox and other injectable treatments

“We advise those considering treatments involving Botox or fillers to cease vaping at least two weeks before and after the procedure to ensure maximum treatment safety and efficacy,” Dr Eranki said.

Drink more water

“The skin is the body’s largest organ and it requires hydration to function. Vaping and cigarette smoking dehydrate the body. Ensure that you are hydrating your body as much as possible to counter the impact of nasty habits like vaping,” Dr Eranki added.

“Dehydration impacts the longevity of treatments such as Botox and fillers.”

Stay out of the sun

“Sunburn damages the skin and also dehydrates the skin. This on top of the impact of vaping on the body will accelerate dehydration of the skin,” Dr Eranki said.

“Ensure that you avoid vaping before and after your treatments and that you reduce vaping as much as possible after the treatment to support optimum skin health.”

About Dr Eranki

Dr Vivek Eranki is the Founder and CEO of Cosmetique and a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. With an impressive background amassing extensive experience in the health and wellness industry, Dr Eranki founded and scaled various healthcare ventures, including allied health clinics, occupational health clinics, general and specialist medical clinics, licensed day hospitals, and cosmetic clinics. Holding numerous medical qualifications both in Australia and Overseas, Dr Eranki retired from Medical Practice in 2021. He now exclusively serves in Directorial and Executive roles.

Website: https://vivekeranki.com 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivekeranki 

Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/vivekeranki 

Instagram: @vivekeranki 

About Cosmetique

Cosmetique is Australia’s leading injectables clinic. With locations in Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia, and New South Wales, they are home to some of Australasia’s most skilled and experienced injectors. They are passionate about providing everyday Australians with exceptional cosmetic medical services to enhance their confidence and allow them to feel the way they deserve. Above all, they abide by the principles of professionalism and utmost care to ensure their patients experience the highest quality service and outcomes.  Their most sought-after treatments include lip fillers, dermal fillers and wrinkle relaxers.

https://www.cosmetique.au/ 

Instagram: @cosmetique.au  

TikTok @cosmetique.au