We can’t turn back the hands of time, but Botox is a safe and effective way to prevent and even reverse wrinkles. It’s a leading anti-aging treatment for good reason. It really works! But just like with any other elective procedure, you shouldn’t make any decisions without doing your own research.
Let’s dive into six things you should know before getting Botox to help you decide if it’s a viable option for you.
1. What Exactly is Botox and How Does it Work?
Botox serum is a diluted solution of the neurotoxin Botulinum. It’s derived from a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum, which contains a toxin that causes paralysis. All of that probably sounds pretty scary, but don’t worry. Botox injections are actually perfectly safe! Here’s why.
While the toxin can cause extreme paralysis in large amounts, the toxin used in a Botox treatment for wrinkles is extremely diluted. In such a small amount, it simply relaxes the muscles without causing any permanent effects.
When you make facial expressions, such as squinting or frowning, it causes your skin to crease. Over time, these creases can become permanent… leading to static wrinkles that are visible even when your face is relaxed.
Botox works by relaxing the muscles used to make facial expressions. This makes Botox extremely effective for preventing the creasing that leads to static wrinkles, as well as relaxing away existing fine lines and deep wrinkles.
2. You Can Start Botox Anytime
Botox isn’t just for one specific age group. In fact, people are choosing to get Botox in their 20s and 30s because it prevents wrinkles before they start. There really is no right or wrong time to start Botox.
That said, the less pronounced your wrinkles are, the less product you’ll need to achieve results. Patients who already have visible fine lines and wrinkles will require more units of Botox, while someone looking for preventative effects may need less.
Botox specialists, Peachy in NYC, advise their clients to consider their goals, genetics, and general skin health when considering when to have their first Botox treatment. The right time to start Botox will be different for everyone.
3. Your Face Won’t Look Frozen
There’s a common misconception that Botox leaves the face looking frozen and expressionless, but that’s not the case at all. Your face will still have a full range of motion. You’ll be able to make facial expressions when you cry, smile, laugh, or frown.
The effects of Botox are moderate and temporary. They’re nothing like the permanently frozen face you sometimes see when someone has plastic surgery. With Botox, you can’t raise your brows high or smile big enough to cause creases, but you’ll still be able to make normal facial expressions.
It’s also important to know that Botox is only injected into areas of the face that are prone to wrinkles, not the entire face. The effects are very targeted. They’re more intense in the first weeks after treatment, and they gradually fade over time.
4. The Effects of Botox Aren’t Immediate
Most people will begin to feel the effects of Botox two to seven days after treatment. Your facial movements will feel restricted, almost like there’s duct tape on your face. This is when the effects of Botox are the most intense.
5. Botox Isn’t a one-and-Done Solution
Botox injections typically last between three to six months. As the effects gradually wear off, your facial movements will begin to feel normal again. The good news is, over time and with repeated treatment your existing wrinkles may be less noticeable, even after the Botox wears off.
Being consistent with an anti aging skincare routine and sun protection can help your Botox injections last longer and improve your results. Smoking can also accelerate the aging process and negatively impact your results.
Most patients can need maintenance injections two to six times a year, depending on the severity of their wrinkles. Your first appointment will probably take about an hour due to new-client paperwork and consulting with your provider. Future sessions can take as little as 10 or 15 minutes.
6. Pricing is Typically Based on Units
If you haven’t ever had a Botox treatment before, you’re probably wondering what units are. “Units” is simply the term that’s used to describe the amount of Botox being injected. The higher the number of units, the more pronounced the results.
Most providers base the price of Botox according to the number of units required to receive the desired results. However, some providers like Peachy offer transparent, flat-rate pricing, no matter how many units you need. This can be a great option for those who don’t want any surprises when it comes to billing.
Wrapping Up: Make Time for an Initial Consultation
Most providers offer free first-time consultations, so be sure to take advantage of them. Scheduling an initial consultation will help you ensure that you’re comfortable with the provider and that their goals for your treatment are in line with your own.
During the consultation, the provider will assess your facial structure and go-to facial expressions to help them understand where to inject the Botox. They’ll also explain how their pricing works, what to do before, during, and after the procedure, and answer any questions you may have.
It’s entirely normal to be nervous about having any procedure done, especially when it comes to your face. But Botox is FDA approved and it’s considered perfectly safe for most people. Choosing an experienced, qualified provider will go a long way toward ensuring that you’re happy with the results.