Introduction to Botox 101

Botox, short for botulinum toxin, is a popular neurotoxin most commonly associated with its ability to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles. It is typically used on the forehead between the eyebrows to reduce frown lines and eye wrinkles.

Botox is also used to treat many other conditions such as chronic migraines, neck spasms, overactive bladders and excessive sweating.

Although many people have heard of it, not everyone knows what Botox is. Botox is a brand name for a protein made by the bacterium known as clostridium botulinum. Although Botox is the most well-known, Dysport and Xeomin are other injectable brands of this protein and offer the same results.

In this article, we’ll look at how long Botox lasts, explain how the treatment works, whether it hurts and what you can expect after a Botox injection.

How Does Botox Work?

Neurotoxins like Botox disrupt signals from the nerves that stimulate muscle contraction. Essentially this temporarily paralyzes the muscles so that they cannot contract, causing wrinkles to soften and relax. The treatment works best on forehead lines, crow’s feet, skin folds and frown lines.

An experienced technician uses a small needle to inject Botox into specific muscles. The procedure only takes minutes, and no anesthesia is required.

Does Botox Hurt?

There is no excessive pain associated with a Botox injection. You may feel some stinging at the injection site, but an anesthetic cream or ice pack can numb the area.

If you’re uncomfortable around needles and receiving injections, let the technician know your reservations beforehand. They will help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during the treatment.

After a Botox injection, some people have some tenderness, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Some people experience slight bruising. These side effects typically last only a few hours. Most side effects are mild and go away within seven to 14 days.

How Long Does Botox Last?

Results vary, but the benefits of a Botox injection typically last from three to six months. Once the neurotoxin wears off, the nerves start sending signals to the muscles to begin working again, and wrinkles and lines become more noticeable.

The first procedure may not last as long as subsequent treatments. It’s not uncommon for lines and wrinkles to appear less severe over time because the muscles are shrinking.

What Can I Expect After My Appointment?

Results are not immediate. It typically takes three to five days for neurotoxins to cut off the nerve impulses to the muscles. And it could be two weeks before you see the final results.

After your Botox injection, you should avoid exercising and excessive sweating to eliminate the risk of the neurotoxin spreading to other areas for at least 24 hours. Relax for the rest of the day and avoid touching or rubbing the treated area.

What’s the Ideal Age to Start Using Botox?

There is no perfect age to start getting Botox injections. Everyone ages differently. Some wrinkles are genetic, while others are caused by lifestyle choices such as smoking and alcohol. Most women start noticing fine lines and wrinkles in their mid to late 30s, so this may be the best time to start Botox treatments.

Natural aging makes lines and wrinkles more noticeable by the time we’re in our 40s, and this is when many women choose to start Botox injections.

However, some women are in their 50s or 60s when they start treatment. There is no upper age limit for people wanting to look fresh and rejuvenated.

Contact Us

NuMe Aesthetics is a luxury medical spa in Seattle specializing in non-surgical cosmetic procedures for the face, body and skin.

We’re happy to answer any questions and concerns you may have. Contact us today or book an appointment online.