The holidays are just about here and that means holiday events and family gatherings. While we can’t help with meal planning or shopping, we can help you look your best this holiday season. One of the most popular treatments people receive as the holidays approach is Botox. 

Botox is a powerful way to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It’s affordable, quick and offers spectacular results without appearing overdone or obvious. This makes it the ultimate secret weapon for turning back the clock without looking unnatural. 

Let’s talk a little about how to get the most out of your Botox treatment this holiday season.

Timing your Botox treatment 

Some people start to see results within 72 hours, but it can take a couple of weeks to really kick in. At this point, you may be completely happy with your results or need a few extra units to achieve your desired look. This means you should get your Botox treatment at least two weeks prior to your holiday event. 

If you haven’t had Botox before and aren’t sure how you’ll respond, you may want to give yourself three to four weeks. This gives you enough time to get additional units in problem areas. This isn’t always necessary, but it’s good to give yourself a window to re-treat if needed.

Avoiding looking unnatural

Are you concerned about looking overdone after your Botox treatment? This is a common concern we hear from first-time patients, and it makes sense. Many people have read about or known someone that has been over-treated and ended up with heavy brows or an unnatural, unmoving face. This can be especially concerning if you’re approaching holiday events.

Fortunately, Botox is one of the most natural-looking treatments you can receive, but it’s important to go to an experienced professional. Technique and treatment patterns are absolutely key in obtaining optimal, natural results. By choosing a highly experienced Botox injector, you greatly reduce the chances that you will end up looking unnatural.

It is important, however, to talk with your provider about your goals and follow the suggested treatment plan. They may suggest you start with a lower number of units and then reevaluate once the Botox has fully set in. This lets you get the best look without risking overtreatment. 

Pay special attention to Botox aftercare

Aftercare refers to the steps you take after receiving treatment, including things you should and should not do. Aftercare is always important to achieve optimal results and avoid irritation. When you’re trying to time results with holiday events, it’s especially important to do everything you can to help the treatment take effect and maximize the benefits you see. 

The following are general Botox aftercare tips to help you get the most out of your treatment. 

• Avoid extra hot showers or environments for the first 24 hours. You can take a comfortably warm shower but should avoid excess heat, hot tubs and saunas.
• Do not lie down for 4 to 6 hours after the treatment. 
• Do not put makeup on for around 4 hours after your treatment. 
• Avoid massaging or manually rubbing the treatment area with your hands, face roller or similar device. 
• Do not engage in strenuous activity for around 24 hours after treatment.
• Do not use retinol, glycolic acid, and exfoliating agents for around 24 hours after treatment. 

You may also be advised to not lay on your face for the first 24 hours. Be sure to ask your provider for specific aftercare instructions as they may have additional recommendations. 

Have questions about how to use Botox to look your best this holiday season? Send us your questions or give us a call at (928)277-7414 and we’ll be happy to help.