Posted on August 10th, 2022

Out of over 15 million minimally invasive cosmetic procedures performed in 2017, Botox was performed more than any other.

Botox is a quick and relatively pain-free procedure that minimizes the visible signs of aging. If you don’t like the idea of going under the knife to take years off your face, Botox is the perfect alternative.

Considering that Botox is a neurotoxin that affects the muscles in your face, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. With some research and preparation, you can make an informed decision about whether this procedure is right for you.

We’ve gathered 10 items that you should know before getting Botox injections. Keep reading to find out more

Consultation Is Important

Before getting Botox, a Botox clinic should offer a consultation.

A professional will ask you to smile, frown and raise your eyebrows. These expressions show them how your face naturally moves so they can place injections correctly.

A consult should also include a comprehensive health assessment. The person performing the injections will need to know whether you’re taking any medications that can interact with the Botox.

The Different Costs

Botox is either charged by the unit or by the treatment area.

The cost may also vary depending on the quality of the Botox used, whether it’s being administered by a dermatologist as well as where the practice is located. Big cities tend to be more expensive and board-certified injectors charge more for their services.

Possible Side Effects

Price shouldn’t be your number one concern while looking for Botox treatment. Finding a reputable practitioner is more important.

That’s because there are complications that can arise from Botox if it’s not injected correctly. Swelling and headaches are considered normal side effects, but there are others that have a longer lasting impact.

If Botox isn’t injected correctly, it can unintentionally spread to muscles in your face and cause sagging or drooping in your eyelid.

Bruising Is Normal

Botox is injected just below the skin’s surface with a fine needle. Meaning it usually doesn’t result in bruising in the same way as fillers.

Sometimes, the needle hits a blood vessel and causes bruising. These usually fade on their own in a matter of days. Some providers offer next-day treatment for bruises. They’ll break down the bruise with a laser treatment and your bruise will be gone within 24 hours.

You’re more likely to experience mild redness and swelling than a bruise. Typically this is gone within a few hours of your injection and you can go right back to your daily activities (with a few exceptions).

After-Care Is Key

What are the exceptions to returning to your daily routine?

The neurotoxin injected into your muscles needs time to settle. That requires that you don’t put makeup on the area and avoid touching your face, lying down and exercise.

Any of these activities could cause the toxin to spread to unintended areas and weaken its effects.

Don’t even fly for a few days after your Botox. The pressure can negatively affect the toxins and how they move under the surface of your skin.

Botox Doesn’t Last Forever

Unlike surgical procedures, Botox injections are not permanent.

You’ll notice the results within 3 days but it can take up to 2 weeks for the full effect to kick in.

How long it lasts is different for everyone. Most injections last between 3 and 6 months, with the average being 4.

It also depends on what areas were injected and how many units were used. The quality of the Botox is also important.

If you had any complications, Botox isn’t reversible. You have to wait until the neurotoxin wears off before those adverse reactions go away.

Botox Is a Preventative Treatment

By the time you reach you early 20’s or late 30’s, you might already be noticing expression lines. Some of these are only visible when you move your face and others might be starting to look more permanent.

Botox relaxes your muscles. The more relaxed those muscles are, the less they are moving around creating expression lines and wrinkles.

That’s how Botox injections can prevent lines and wrinkles from getting worse. But that also means that you’ll have to keep using it for the desired result.

More Than Just Wrinkles

As more research is conducted, more uses for Botox are being found. Besides making your face look more youthful, Botox has been shown to have a positive impact on muscle spasm, migraines, depression and even sweating.

Some of these treatments are still in early research stages, so you should talk to your professional about whether you’re a candidate.

Decide If You Want Filler

Filler can be used to contour and volume to your face and lips. These injections are placed beneath the skin’s surface to literally ‘fill in’ lines and wrinkles and revitalize your skin.

Filler is often used in combination with Botox injections because it covers areas that Botox doesn’t. Tear trough filler, cheek fillers, nose fillers, under eye fillers and chin filler can make your Botox look even better.

Other than collagen, filler lasts between 6 and 18 months, so you get longer wear than you do with Botox

Consider Getting Botox with a Fillers

Along with fillers, Botox are also commonly combined to achieve great results.

They are known as non-surgical facelifts. Without any incisions, are injected beneath the skin to give a lifting effect.

This minimally invasive procedure works with Botox to smooth wrinkles, raise sagging skin and tighten your browline.

More on Facial Rejuvenation

The visible signs of aging can affect your self-confidence. With minimally invasive procedures like Botox, you can restore your youthful glow and take that power back. But Botox isn’t the only method for minimizing wrinkles, contouring your face and bringing volume back to skin that’s sagging.

Other facial aesthetics like fillers and thread lifts can take years off your face. Use them on their own or combine them with Botox injections to achieve amazing, restorative results that will last anywhere from 3 to 18 months.

Original article: 10 things you should know before getting botox treatment