Neurotoxins—such as Botox, Dysport and Xeomin—are a powerful anti-aging tool, but results are even stronger when paired with a smart at-home skin-care routine. Think of it as protecting your investment, says New York dermatologist Julie Russak, MD. “In my practice, I remind patients that neuromodulators relax the muscle, but the quality of the skin on top is what people actually see,” she explains. “It’s important to build a supportive routine that enhances both the injected result and the underlying skin biology.”
“When patients want to extend and enhance their neurotoxin results at home, I usually recommend a routine that focuses on hydration, skin strengthening and long-term collagen support,” adds Miami dermatologist Dr. Anna Chacon, who notes, “Neurotoxins smooth expression lines, but the skin itself still needs to be in its healthiest state to look its best.” New York dermatologist Jody A. Levine, MD, agrees, adding that post-neurotoxin skin care should prioritize protection and proven anti-aging topicals.
Ahead, we asked the experts to share the products they recommend to help preserve—and enhance—neurotoxin results long after the appointment.
Featured Experts
- Julie Russak, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
- Anna Chacon, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Miami
- Jody A. Levine, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
Peptides
“Peptides work synergistically with neurotoxins by supporting the skin’s natural collagen and elastin. They help reinforce firmness and give a subtle ‘lifted’ appearance over time,” says Dr. Chacon.
“I often pair neurotoxins with targeted signaling peptide serums because they work on a different part of the wrinkle pathway than the injection itself,” says Dr. Russak. “These formulations typically use neuropeptide complexes, such as hexapeptides that influence neuromuscular communication, as well as dermal-signaling peptides that support collagen, elasticity and skin smoothness.” She explains that clinical studies have shown that combining these peptide technologies with neurotoxins can create a measurable synergistic effect.
Peptides may also support skin longevity. “Senotherapeutic peptides, such as those designed to target senescent cells, improve cellular signaling and strengthen the barrier, helping reduce low-grade inflammation and enhance the skin’s ability to repair itself,” says Dr. Levine. “When inflammation is lower and the barrier is resilient, the skin reflects light more evenly and holds moisture better, and the neurotoxin result appears smoother and more refined.”
Retinoids
Dr. Levine recommends incorporating a topical retinoid into your skin-care routine once the skin has healed, whether prescription or over-the-counter. “Retinoids improve texture, boost cell turnover and support collagen. Used consistently, they complement neurotoxins by keeping the skin firm and refined,” explains Dr. Chacon.
Products to try: Alastin Retinal Renewal ($81), Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC Enhanced Retinol Serum 2.5x ($143), Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform ($75)
Hydrating Products
“Hydration is key to keeping skin looking plump, glowing and firm,” says Dr. Levine, who recommends looking for products with propylene glycol and glycerin when selecting a moisturizer or toner. Dr. Chacon adds that lightweight hyaluronic acid is one of the quickest ways to boost radiance post-treatment. “It pulls water into the skin, softens fine lines and helps maintain the smooth, rested look neurotoxins create.”
Products to try: Revision Skincare’s Revox Line Relaxer ($96), iS Clinical Daily Dynamic Hydrator ($135), Epicuren Moisture Surge Hyaluronic Acid Gel ($50)
Barrier-Repairing Products
Dr. Russak says it’s important to support neurotoxin results with a barrier-repairing moisturizer featuring ingredients such as ceramides, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. While this won’t change the pharmacology of the toxin (meaning it won’t alter how the injectable works or how long it remains active), it helps preserve skin quality, which can extend the perceived life of results between visits.
Products to try: Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Cream ($59), Lancer Ultra Rich Barrier Cream ($110), Dieux Instant Angel Lipid-Rich Firming Moisturizer ($45)
Sunscreen
“If patients want longevity from their neurotoxin, sunscreen is non-negotiable,” says Dr. Chacon. “UV exposure is one of the fastest ways to undo the smoothness and clarity they’re trying to preserve.” She recommends a broad-spectrum formula that’s cosmetically pleasing enough that you’ll actually want to use it, and says serums or fluid-textured formulas tend to be more enjoyable. She also suggests choosing a sunscreen with antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules generated by UV exposure, pollution and everyday environmental stressors that can damage skin.
Products to try: La Roche Posay Anthelios AOX Daily Antioxidant Face Serum SPF 50 ($45), EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 ($45), SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair SPF 34 ($70)
Regenerative Products
“For patients combining neurotoxins with in-office procedures like lasers or microneedling, I often add regenerative skin care,” says Dr. Levine, who points to peptide and exosome-based products. “These technologies can support collagen production, improve texture and accelerate post-procedure recovery by enhancing communication between skin cells.” In practice, this helps the skin heal more efficiently after treatment by boosting repair at the cellular level.
Products to try: EXOCEUTICALS EXO FACE Perfection Moisturizer ($149), Dr. Diamond Metacine INSTAFACIAL PLASMA Bioactive Growth Factor Serum ($200), Dermalogica Phyto Nature E² Regenerating Daily Exosome Leave-On Treatment ($152)
