Let’s face it: the signs of aging can be disappointing. Lines and wrinkles, graying hair and other effects of the aging process can make even the most confident among us long for a younger, more vital appearance. Thankfully, advancements in technology and a deeper understanding of health and wellness provide us with several options for looking younger, feeling better and living more healthfully. And while a balanced diet and regular physical activity can do their part in enhancing appearance, cosmetic procedures like botox injections can be even more effective.
Chances are, you’ve heard of botox. One of the most common cosmetic procedures, botox injections are wildly popular for good reason: they work. By causing temporary paralysis in targeted muscles of the face and neck, botox can make you look younger, fresher and, overall, better. What’s more, contrary to what many people believe, botox is safe, minimally-invasive and virtually painless. However, for many, the mere thought of botox injections can be frightening or overwhelming. To put those fears to rest, let’s take a closer look at this type of procedure, as well as all the benefits it can offer. Keep reading to discover more about botox injections, including why they’re performed, how they’re done and what you can expect.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox, also known as botulism toxin, a naturally-occurring toxin that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of wrinkles, works by relaxing the muscles so that they’re unable to contract and expand. This process significantly reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, including those found in the forehead, between the eyes and around the mouth. The effects of botox injections are temporary; typically, results last around six months, at which time the process can be repeated.
Why Botox?
So, why should you choose botox? The answer is simple: botox injections are a fast, easy way to reduce wrinkles and enhance appearance. If you’re still not convinced, check out all the benefits botox injections can offer:
- Botox injections are minimally invasive. Unlike facelifts and other invasive procedures, botox injections require no cutting, no stitches and no recovery time. Following botox procedures, patients can immediately resume their normal activities.
- Botox injections take very little time to administer. Depending on the number of injections being administered, as well as the size of the targeted areas, the actual procedure typically takes only minutes to perform.
- Botox is affordable. Unlike costly surgical procedures, botox injections can be worked into virtually any budget.
The results look natural. In addition to giving you a younger, stress-free appearance, botox treatments look completely natural; you’ll look like yourself, only an improved version.
Botox Treatment: What You can Expect
Before treatment begins, a professional will assess your needs and determine where and how many botox injections will be administered. For some patients, especially those sensitive to pain, one of the following pre-treatment methods may be used:
- Injections. Numbing agents can be injected into the skin just before botox treatment. Typically, these injections numb the skin completely, with patients experiencing no pain whatsoever.
- Topical creams. Prescription-strength creams, gels or ointments can be applied to the skin an hour or so before botox treatment. These drugs numb the skin so that little or no pain is experienced during treatment.
- Cold spray. Some professionals use cold sprays to numb the skin prior to treatment. This method involves the use of extremely cold blasts of air, which numb the skin for a very short time.
During the procedure, a doctor or professional will inject small amounts of botox into the muscles or skin of your face. Treatment takes very little time to complete, and you can get back to your normal routine directly after receiving injections. It is important to note, however, that care should be taken when it comes to touching the face. In the hours following treatment, touching, rubbing or massaging the face and affected areas may cause botox to migrate, which can cause facial paralysis and other complications. To ensure optimal safety, avoid vigorous facial cleansing and forego the application of moisturizer, cosmetics and other skincare products for about 12 hours after treatment.
Are Botox Injections Right for You?
When administered by a professional, botox injections are considered safe and effective at reducing the signs of aging. The most common side effects associated with botox procedures include bruising, swelling, asymmetry and droopy eyelids, all of which are temporary. If you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications, let a doctor know in advance of receiving botox injections. In order to prevent bleeding or bruising, anti-coagulant medications may need to be discontinued prior to treatment. Safety concerns aside, if you’re dissatisfied with your appearance, and think you could benefit from botox injections, this treatment could be right for you. Designed to enhance appearance by reversing some of the signs of aging, botox injections can significantly reduce wrinkles, boost self-esteem and improve quality of life. So if you’re looking for a quick, easy and affordable way to rejuvenate your skin and take years off your appearance, look no further: botox is right for you.
