Should You Get Botox? The Info You Need Before Jumping In
Great skincare starts at home, but sometimes, we all need some help from professionals. If you’ve started to notice more fine lines and wrinkles on your forehead and around your eyes, you may be considering Botox for the first time. While Botox is a widely popular procedure, it’s essential to meet with trained providers like the Spa in the City Dallas team to determine the best treatment plan for your goals. Head into your consultation armed with this basic information about Botox so that you can make the most of your appointment.
What Is Botox?
Botox is the shortened version of botulinum toxin, a neurotoxic protein produced by bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. This protein is neurotoxic because it temporarily paralyzes muscles by interfering with the nerve signals between a muscle and your brain. Botox injections use a small amount of this neurotoxic protein to target and relax muscles for cosmetic and medical purposes.
How are neurotoxins Used Cosmetically?
One of the most popular uses of Botox is for cosmetic procedures that aim to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Smoothing lines on your forehead, upper lip, and in between (called the glabella) and around your eyes are some of the most common target regions. Over time, repetitive movements like frowning and laughing cause the muscles to tighten and create wrinkles. When Botox is injected into the target muscles, they’re temporarily paralyzed and can begin to relax and soften. Don’t worry — the toxins work only in a tiny area, so your entire face won’t be stiff. The results from treatments are undeniable when you look at Botox before and after images.
Photo: via Shutterstock.com
How Much Does Botox Cost?
Many people wonder how much Botox costs and whether the price is a deterrent for the procedure. Providers charge either by area (forehead, upper lip, glabella) or by unit, and many places offer deals for ongoing treatment. The per-unit cost is anywhere from $12-$30 in most cities. Depending on the desired effects, an area like the forehead could take 20-30 units. Less Botox will give a softer result, while more will provide more apparent smoothing. Any concerns you may have, including cost, are important to bring up during an initial consultation with your provider. The expert team at Spa in the City Dallas can walk you through the entire procedure and give you an exact cost for treatment based on your specific needs.
What Happens During a Cosmetic Botox Procedure?
As with any cosmetic procedure, it’s essential to follow guidelines for care before, during, and after. Preparing for treatment involves your initial consultation, followed by good sleep and no alcohol the night before. During the treatment, you’ll get injections from trained providers using very thin needles. Most patients don’t experience discomfort, but you can ask for ice to help dull the surface sensations if needed. After 10-15 minutes of treatment, you’re free to go!
All of your everyday activities, including exercise, can resume the following day. Side effects are uncommon, but if you notice pain, headaches, or unwanted results, speak with your provider right away.
How Long Does Botox Last?
Botox is not permanent. After a procedure, the neurotoxins continue to help your muscles relax and you should see full results after 10-14 days. The effects usually continue for three to four months, but you may begin to see some lines and wrinkles reappear after 8-10 weeks. Even when lines begin returning, you may notice they’re not as pronounced.
Many factors affect exactly how long Botox lasts, including your age, genetics, and the amount of the product you receive. For most people, Botox treatments three or four times a year can keep the fine lines and wrinkles at bay. Getting Botox injections regularly can keep the results consistent and provide a long-term solution to these skincare concerns.
Choosing a knowledgeable and caring provider is vital for your Botox routine since this relationship lasts many years. The Spa in the City Dallas team has years of experience helping people find the right treatment plan and timing for their goals, so reach out today if you’d like to start your journey to smoother, more youthful-looking skin!