Botox, lasers and vampire lifts: Time-saving combo treatments to transform your skin

So it’s little wonder when it comes to skincare and cosmetic treatments that people want them to work as hard as they do. This trend has led to “combo” treatments becoming the new norm at cosmetic clinics around the country.

Instead of having just one treatment, patients are choosing to combine non-invasive cosmetic procedures such as fillers, anti-wrinkle jabs and laser facials into one appointment to maximise the benefits.

For example, Botox can be used to treat forehead wrinkles while volumising injections plump deeper lines or folds in the lower face. When used at the same time the result is a more rejuvenated complexion in just one session.

Skin-resurfacing procedures such as microdermabrasion, peels and laser treatments can also be combined with dermal fillers and the latest thread lifts for a result that is close to a traditional facelift. The success of combo treatments is down to the skill and expertise of your doctor so do your research properly.

Remember, combining treatments may save you multiple trips to the clinic but they are not short cuts. They are used because having different treatments at the same time means improved and longer-lasting results.

We’ve rounded up our pick of the best combo treatments and products that will help streamline your anti-ageing and beauty routine. 

At The Clinic 

– The Botox Combo 

Multi-tasking Botox can erase frown lines, soften crow’s feet and even provide a gentle lift to the face and neck. What it cannot do is brighten or freshen the skin so combining it with a superficial peel can revive a dull complexion and enhance skin quality.

First the skin is cleansed before a very light glycolic peel or microdermabrasion procedure is carried out. A moisturising mask is then used before Botox is injected so skin looks radiant as well as wrinkle free. The Botox Combo takes around 45 minutes and costs from £250. 

– The Do-It-All Facial 

A laser and light facial is an excellent combo treatment that can result in a complete skin makeover.

It tackles signs of ageing, helps balance uneven skin tone, erases fine lines and plumps up the complexion.

The eight-step treatment takes 90 minutes and combines the latest high-tech ingredients including stem cells and peptides with microdermabrasion, a glycolic peel, intense pulsed light, red light therapy, radiofrequency energy and a rejuvenating mask.

Skin will look smoother, radiant and nourished and will improve over the following month as new collagen is formed. Results last up to three months. From £499.

– Skin Brightener Combo

A Dermaroller skin-needling treatment can help improve acne scars, wrinkles, pigmentation and dark circles while Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP injections, also known as the Vampire Lift) can significantly enhance skin radiance and tone.

Combine the two and you have the ultimate skin-brightening and tightening combination.

First a vial of blood is taken and put in a centrifuge to separate the plasma, which is full of platelets and growth factors.

While this is being done the Dermaroller treatment is carried out. A barrel-shaped device covered with hundreds of fine needles is rolled over the face.

This leaves tiny pinpricks that activate a woundhealing response to regenerate the skin and boost collagen levels.

The PRP injections are then injected all over the face to stimulate collagen so skin will be plumper and firmer.

Three combined 60-minute treatments, one every six weeks, will produce dramatic results that last up to 18 months. From £800. 

HIGH-STREET SAVIOURS 

– A multi-tasking cream that can be used to treat a multitude of skin problems is an essential for every handbag or bathroom. Try Filorga Universal Cream, £30 (feelunique.com), which gives instant relief for dry, cracked and irritated skin, soothes acne-prone skin and also repairs shaving cuts. 

– Vitamins C and E are a dynamic duo when used together and can improve the appearance of scars and sunspots. You can find them both in Sunday Riley CEO C+E Protect and Repair Moisturiser, £60 (cultbeauty.co.uk), which can be used as a day cream to protect skin and as a night cream to repair. 

For advice on cosmetic surgery consult your GP. For more of Lesley’s tips see lesleyreynolds.com

Easy ways to slow down in the fast lane

1 Set your alarm 10 minutes earlier than normal as starting out in a big rush is a surefire way to begin your day on the wrong foot. 

2 Little breaks of just five minutes throughout the day can help recharge your brain and improve productivity. 

3 Focus on what you’re doing. Instead of eating while checking email or watching TV, sit at a table and enjoy your food. If you focus on what’s in front of you, you’ll feel calmer and able to handle other tasks. 

4 When you are feeling stressed, deep breathing can reduce your heart rate and pulse. Counting to 20 can also help your mind to focus. 

5 Try not to eat sugary snacks or quick release starchy foods when you’re busy as this will elevate glucose and insulin levels that can lead to the body storing fat. 

6 Cortisol levels rise when you’re tired. During deep sleep blood flow is directed to the skin so quality shut-eye is crucial for cellular repair and regeneration.