Botox is made from botulinum toxin, a potent neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum. Botox is used to reduce wrinkles, lift the brow area, and improve the appearance of lips. It is administered through injections.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox blocks certain nerve signals, preventing the muscles in the targeted area from contracting to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Some Lesser-Known Benefits of Botox
Botox is widely used to treat both cosmetic and medical issues. It can help reduce migraine symptoms. In the healthcare industry, Botox is commonly used to treat hyperhidrosis, muscle stiffness, muscle spasms, eye conditions, neurological disorders, depression, and premature ejaculation.
A Botox treatment usually takes only 10-15 minutes (depending on the targeted area) and you can return to your normal life immediately after a session. It is a cost-effective alternative to several popular cosmetic treatments. Botox does not just treat wrinkles, it can also prevent them from forming by relaxing the targeted muscles. Some studies show that Botox may improve mood and reduce depression symptoms.
How Many Units of Botox Do I Need?
The number of Botox units needed depends on various factors such as the targeted area, the specific problem you’re trying to address, your muscle mass, and desired results. Here are some common cosmetic concerns that Botox is used to address and the number of units required.
- Forehead lines- Usually 10-30 units of Botox are used to improve the appearance of horizontal forehead wrinkles
- Crow’s feet- 10-15 units of Botox can help improve the appearance of fine lines that form on the outer corners of the eyes
- Bunny lines- If you have wrinkles on the side of your nose, a Botox clinic may use 5-10 units of Botox to treat them
- Glabellar lines- These are vertical lines that form between your eyebrows. Typically 10-25 units are used to address the cosmetic problem
How Often Should I Get Botox Injections?
Botox results in the last 3-4 months depending on the area treated, your metabolism, and dosage. Many experts recommend getting Botox injections every 3-6 months to reap long-term benefits. A skincare specialist will analyze your skin and then create a custom treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
Is Botox Safe?
Botox is usually safe when administered by a qualified professional. An amateur is likely to inject Botox in the wrong area or muscle. When administered improperly, Botox can cause pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. It is therefore important that you choose a reliable injectables clinic. Check the qualification of the skin care specialist who will be administering Botox injections to you and make sure they have relevant experience.
Best Practices for Botox Aftercare
After a Botox treatment-
- Do not touch the treated area for at least 24 hours after the session as Botox can spread to muscles in other areas
- Try to stay upright for at least four hours after the session. Do not bend over or lie down
- Avoid strenuous activities at least 24 hours after the session
- Limit heat exposure for the first 24-48 hours after the treatment
- Avoid fish oil, vitamin E, and ginkgo biloba supplements. If possible, steer clear of ibuprofen, aspirin, and other medications that can increase the risk of bruising
- Clean the treated area regularly to reduce the risk of infection
- Do not consume alcohol at least 24 hours after the treatment
- In case bruising occurs, apply a cold pack to the treated area
Selecting a Botox Clinic
Here are some factors to consider when choosing a filler clinic
- Providers’ reputation
- Before and after photos of previous clients
- Qualifications and experience of professionals who administer Botox
- Hygiene levels (look for a clinic that follows all safety protocols and guidelines established by the FDA and other regulatory bodies)
- Products used (steer clear of clinics that use cheap imitations of genuine and approved Botox products)
- Cost (be wary of clinics that offer unrealistically low prices)
Moksha Rejuvenation MD is a leading filler clinic in North York, ON. Whether you’re trying to cope with a facial or an intimate condition, we can help. To learn more, call (437) 961-5234.