It would be extremely surprising if a person had never heard of Botox before. The treatment has been around for over 3 decades and has helped millions of clients achieve a more youthful, wrinkle-free appearance.
But what exactly is Botox? Is it safe? How long will it last?
Let’s take a look at each of these questions and see if Botox is the right treatment for you!
What is Botox?
Botox is comprised of a protein that is isolated from the botulinum toxin. This protein is then injected into an area of muscles and nerves by a skilled dermatologist. Once injected, the compound relaxes the muscles in the area, leading to a smoother appearance of the skin overlying said muscles.
Is Botox Safe?
While it may sound scary to have something that was once a part of a toxin injected into your skin, you can have peace of mind in knowing that Botox is extremely safe. In fact, the side effects from the treatment are ones you would probably assume just from the nature of the procedure:
- Soreness around the area of the injection.
- Bruising of the skin near the treatment area.
- Drooping of the eyelids.
The soreness and bruising that often present after Botox treatment generally resolve quickly and are usually very well-tolerated by all clients. Eyelid drooping rarely occurs after Botox treatment, but it is due to the substance affecting the nerves of the eyelid. While irritating, this side effect generally resolves on its own a few weeks after treatment.
How Long Will the Effects of Botox Last?
The effects of Botox become evident within a week to 2 weeks of the treatment. These results will often last up to 3 months, but may last as long as 6 months. At this point, the client should consider a touch-up treatment, which may not require as much Botox to be injected as was used during the first treatment. This is due to the body recognizing the substance and becoming more efficient with it. Therefore, you’ll likely get the same results with less Botox during your subsequent treatments!
Is There Anything Else I Need to Know Before Getting Botox?
The most important thing to ensure is that you select a skilled dermatologist who has experience with Botox. While a novice dermatologist is sure to achieve the desired outcome, while still maintaining your safety, experienced Botox dermatologists can often minimize bruising and achieve excellent results for their clients.
Because you’ll likely have some mild discomfort for the rest of the day following your procedure, it’s a good idea to refrain from scheduling any important meetings or things that would require a lot of lifting and movement on the same day as your injection. Your dermatologist may also have additional instructions, so you’ll want to make sure you receive follow up and discharge paperwork from the doctor or the front desk before you leave the office.
Are you ready to get your Botox treatment? Call your dermatologist today to set up your first appointment!
