Botox
Botox is the most widely used cosmetic dermatology treatment in the United States today, and its popularity continues to grow. What is Botox and why do you hear about it so much? Here’s all the essential information on Botox.
What is Botox and What Does it Involve?
Botox is an injectable neuromodulator for the reduction of lines and wrinkles in your face. The active ingredient in Botox is botulinum toxin type A, which is derived from Clostridium botulinum. Although Clostridium botulinum is the same toxin that can cause botulism, the amount of Botox needed to get wrinkle-erasing effects is minuscule in comparison than that which causes botulism.
The FDA approved Botox as safe and effective wrinkle treatment in 2002, and it’s been in continuous use ever since. Today, Botox is the most popular non-invasive cosmetic treatment in the United States, and its popularity grows year by year.
Is Botox Permanent?
No, Botox is a temporary treatment. Most patients enjoy up to four months of reduced wrinkles after Botox treatment, and its effects can last longer in some cases. If you have Botox treatments regularly, your muscles may slightly atrophy over time, and this may allow you to remain wrinkle-free for longer.
Who Needs Botox?
Botox can be a good choice for a temporary line and wrinkle relaxation in certain parts of your face. If you’re unhappy with lines and wrinkles in the following areas, Botox may be right for you.
- The “11” Lines: The 11 lines are the angry-looking vertical lines that show up between your brows when you frown. Sometimes the 11 lines grow ingrained over time, which means they don’t go away when you stop frowning. However, Botox can smooth these lines out even if they’re ingrained between your brows.
- The Crow’s Feet: The crow’s feet are the crinkly lines that appear when you smile. Crow’s feet tend to be very fine and then grow deeper over time. Over the years, untreated crow’s feet can grow quite deep and prominent. Botox injections on the outer corners of your eyes can control the muscles that make crow’s feet to help smooth out those lines, even when you smile.
- The Horizontal Forehead Lines: Most men and women develop horizontal forehead lines as they age. When you’re younger, those lines might only show up when you raise your brows. However, after years of moving those muscles, the lines can start to linger. Botox in the muscles that control your brow movement can help smooth out those lines very effectively.
Botox may also be effective in other areas also. If you have other concerns, for example, tiny smoker’s lines around the mouth, talk to your doctor about whether Botox might be a good fit in that area.
The Botox Process
The Botox process is very short and simple. Usually, your injections take just minutes. If needed, we can apply a numbing cream or ice pack to your forehead and other areas where you’re getting Botox treatment. We use a micro-needle for the Botox injections, which means it’s so fine that it won’t cause any discomfort beyond a small quick sting if you even feel any discomfort at all.
The exact number of injections depends on how many areas need treatment. Generally, Botox requires a short series of injections, for example, five injections spread at key points above your eyebrows. We will clean the treatment area and provide you with an ice pack to ease any post-injection discomfort you may feel.
Botox Aftercare
One of the biggest Botox benefits is that you can return to work or your routine right away. No downtime at all! You’ll need to avoid laying down until the end of the day to prevent the Botox from potentially migrating out of the treatment areas. Additionally, you should stay out of the sun for at least a day. Overall, Botox is an easy and safe treatment, which is why it’s widely regarded as the best non-invasive anti-wrinkle treatment today.