Express.co.uk examined whether some of the latest professional-grade skin care products are a substitute for cosmetic surgery procedures and found procedures are more effective and have longer-lasting results.

The website had a tester try several cosmetic surgery skin care products for reducing lines and wrinkles, firming skin and plumping lips. The results were not as good or as long-lasting as cosmetic surgery procedures.

For example, a cream that contained peptides to plump lips did instantly add volume. Dr. Michael Prager, a cosmetic surgeon in London, said that while the cream works as a quick fix and hydrates lips, is unlikely to be a long-term solution.

A dermal filler like Restylane, which was recently approved by the FDA for lip augmentation, is your best bet for fuller lips; results last about six months.

After using an anti-aging neck cream that contains a “tensing agent to give an instant lift to saggy skin” for a week, the tester reported that her skin looked smoother and less wrinkly. However, Dr. Prager said it would only work on minor problems and to remove loose skin from the neck, a neck lift is going to give patients the best results.

They also examined a product that claims to be a Botox cream. The tester reported that fine lines filled in and that while her skin felt dry, “the instant results are amazing.”

Dr. Prager believes the cream is filling lines with an ingredient such as collagen and probably has hydrating qualities. For longer-lasting results, Botox injections are the way to go.

Cosmetic surgery procedures produce better and longer-lasting results, but professional skin care products can help you maintain your look between procedures. Talk to your cosmetic surgeon about what products he or she recommends for you.