Are you interested in trying Botox, but aren’t sure it’s right for you? This is a common issue we run into, especially among those getting Botox for the first time. It’s understandable, after all it might seem a little intimidating if you’re not sure how it works. Don’t worry though, we have all the answers you need about using Botox to fight wrinkles and turn back the hands of time.
Botox FAQs
What is Botox?
Botox is a popular, non-surgical treatment for wrinkles. It’s beloved by many because it is a safe, effective and affordable way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Botox is a brand name, and not a general word used for any anti-wrinkle injectable. There is also no generic form of Botox, so be careful of discount providers which may not be using the authentic Botox product.
How does Botox work?
Botox uses onobotulinumtoxinA, which is a toxin produced by the same microbe that causes botulism, to temporarily prevent movement in the treatment area. This reduces the appearance of wrinkles and repetitive movements that increase wrinkling. This makes it a good choice to improve how wrinkles look today and help prevent wrinkles associated with repetitive movements.
Toxin? That sounds dangerous!
Don’t let the terms “toxin” or “botulism” scare you! This may be where the ingredient comes from, but it happens to be a safe and effective way to battle wrinkles. It is also the best selling product of its kind and is approved for use in 98 countries. Millions of people use Botox to look their best!
Is Botox FDA approved?
Yes! Botox is the first and only treatment FDA-approved to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines. It is also approved for several medical conditions, including neck spasms, excessive sweating, migraines and overactive bladder.
How is Botox administered?
Botox is administered in a medical setting by a licensed provider. They select treatment sites based on your goals and most affected areas. They may have you look in a mirror and smile, scowl and frown to best place the product. Next, they determine how many units you need to achieve the desired result. After your skin has been cleaned, the product is injected into the treatment areas with a very thin needle. The number of injections will depend on your unique treatment plan.
I’m afraid of needles, can I still get Botox?
Many people are a bit hesitant when it comes to needles, so you’re not alone. While there is no way around the fact that Botox is administered with needles, it’s a different experience than what you may think. First, it’s important to realize that Botox is NOT administered like shots, which is what most people think of when they hear the word “needle”. Botox is injected using a very fine needle that pierces the skin, not a long needle that goes deep into the muscle like for vaccines and other shots.
Next, you may be surprised to find out that many people find the sensation to be between a tingle and a pinch, depending on the treatment area. It is not an intense or long lasting feeling, which shocks many first time Botox patients. Your own anxiety about the treatment, however, may intensify how it feels.
You can combat this by using the following techniques to keep calm before and during the treatment:
- Bring your earbuds and softly listen to music that relaxes you.
- Take deep, calming breaths with your eyes closed.
- Actively relax your face, unfurrow your brow and soften your jaw, just like you do when you’re trying to sleep or meditate.
- Let the treatment provider know you are anxious and have a signal that you can use if you need a break. This can be as simple as raising your hand.
- Do not watch the procedure in the mirror, this can intensify anxiety.
Last but not least, think about the end result and remember how quickly the treatment actually is. It’ll take a few minutes to inject all the units, but your results will last for months.
How many units of Botox will I need?
Botox suggests that people get 64 units, three times a year to effectively deal with wrinkles. They also suggest that these are distributed as follows: 20 Units in your frown lines, 24 Units in your crow’s feet lines, and 20 Units in your forehead lines. They call this the Look of 3 and it refers to both the number of times a year you should get Botox, as well as the fact that there are three treatment areas
In reality though, the number of units you need depends on how severe the wrinkles are and how many areas are being treated. Your practitioner will examine your situation, have you run through some facial expressions and talk with you about your goals before deciding how many units you need.
Units verses injection
Botox considers 64 units to be a fairly standard treatment, but don’t let that worry you! The number of units does not coincide to the number of injections, but rather how much product in total is used. The total amount of units is distributed among the various treatment sites, so you may have 10 units with one injection.
What can I expect after my Botox treatment?
You may have some redness around the injection sites. Some people have slight bruising or little bumps similar to a bug bite, although not everyone experiences this. Even if you get your treatment in the late afternoon, these types of marks are typically completely gone the next day. You shouldn’t really feel discomfort after your treatment.
You will need to follow simple aftercare instructions, so check with your provider to understand what you should avoid immediately following the procedure. This usually includes not laying down for 3-5 hours after, no strenuous exercise, extra hot showers and potential limitations on skin care products for the first night.
How much downtime will I need after Botox?
One of the best things about Botox is that you don’t need to schedule any downtime. Ask your practitioner for their aftercare guidelines, but in general you can return to your day with very little limitations. You may be told to not lay down for up to 5 hours after the treatment and to avoid putting makeup over the injection sites for several hours. You’ll need to avoid exercise, hot showers and saunas for around 24 hours for optimal results.
These precautions help ensure you get the greatest benefit from the product. Your provider should provide you with their own aftercare instructions. Read through them and ask questions before you leave the appointment, especially if you are new to Botox.
How soon will I see results from Botox?
It can take up to 14 or so days for you to see the full effect of your Botox treatment. Everybody is a bit different though, and some people start to notice it kicks in as soon as 48 to 72 hours. Wait at least two weeks after your treatment to determine if the treatment achieved your goals. If you still notice too much movement at this time, consult with your provider.
How long does Botox last?
Botox can last from from three to five months, but this is slightly different for everyone. It doesn’t wear off suddenly, you just start to notice more movement in your face over time. Some people may notice it lasts longer in some areas than it does others. For example, it may last longer in your forehead than it does around your eyes.
Botox is a safe, effective and cost efficient way to reduce and help prevent wrinkles. Millions of people use it to boost their confidence and age gracefully. If you’re in or near Prescott, Arizona and want to use Botox to banish those lines, we’re here to help! Call 928-277-7414 or send us your questions about using Botox.