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Our Expert Answers with Emma Coleman – Dermatology and Aesthetic RGN

Can Botox injections help to reduce teeth grinding?

Yes – the Masseter muscle located at the rear jaw angle can become hyperactive in around 5 to 8% of the population, leading to nighttime teeth grinding, also known as Bruxism. Most are unaware that they are doing this as they are sound asleep, but they will be aware of the side effects of teeth grinding which include severe jaw pain, headaches and tooth health issues.

Botox is a muscle relaxant and injecting this directly into the masseter muscles at the rear jaw angle helps to reduce nighttime grinding temporarily and effectively. Cosmetically, this can also slim the jawline is some clients, giving them a more heart-shaped face. The toxin takes around 4 weeks to fully work post-injection and results last for up to 6 months.

What skincare should I be using right now?

Autumn is a great time to deal with patches of sunspots or hyperpigmentation on the face. These may fade during the cooler months but will arise again when summer comes around so it’s important to use the correct skincare all year round.

Hyperpigmentation patches are best remedied with products containing Alpha and Beta-hydroxy Acids (AHA’s and BHA’s), and Retinoids, which gently exfoliate our skin to lighten it and also encourage collagen production to tighten and rejuvenate. AHA’s and BHA’s can be found in cleansers and face washes for daytime and evening use, whilst I always recommend Retinoids for bedtime use only as they make the skin more sun reactive.

Applying a daily sunscreen product to the face, neck and backs of the hands, even in cooler months, will also protect your skin from the formation of any new freckles and brown patches.

What is the best treatment for puffy under eyes?

As we age, the tissues and muscles under the eyes become thin and weakened, making fat underneath the eyes more prominent, where fluid may also accumulate. Cosmetic surgery is an option, but here are some DIY tips:

  • Apply a moistened peppermint tea bag to closed eyelids for 15 minutes – this helps to tighten the under-eye skin
  • Use a Rose Quartz Gua Sha Massage tool three times weekly to cool the under eyes and help to remove excessive fluid
  • Avoid heavy eye creams and opt for gel-based options containing antioxidant ingredients such as Aloe Vera and vitamins A and C.
  • Keep your eye gel in the fridge between uses for added cooling and de-puffing benefit.
  • Reducing salt and alcohol in the diet will help to reduce fluid collection under the eyes

Can what we eat and drink really affect our skin?

There are many studies with evidence to suggest that staying hydrated, eating lots of brightly coloured fruit and veg and avoiding too much sugar and saturated fat all help to maintain healthy, well-conditioned skin. I recommend starting each day with juice to boost antioxidant intake. Drinking on an empty stomach improves the absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream. Here is one of my favourite juice recipes, designed to protect from inflammation and boost levels of Vitamin C and Beta carotene, (if you don’t possess a juicer, this works just as well with a bullet or blender):

  • 2 celery sticks
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 100ml coconut or tap water
  • Ice cubes
  • Follow @EmmaColemanSkin for more skin and beauty tips
Tried & Tested |