EVERYTHING YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT BOTOX (BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK)
Janine Mendes-Franco
Botox has come a long way, and part of the reason is that it has both cosmetic and therapeutic benefits. Not only can it lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, crow’s feet and jowls, it also has a proven track record in everything from pain relief to the reduction of excessive sweating. Here’s everything you wanted to know — and more!
What is it, exactly?
Botox is a brand name for a neurotoxin derived from a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. When injected in small, diluted amounts, it temporarily relaxes specific muscles, leading to a reduction in wrinkles and other signs of ageing.
Botox is also an acetylcholine release inhibitor, which means it can help prevent wrinkles from forming in the first place. This is why more people are starting treatment earlier — before they notice changes in skin’s volume and firmness.
How does it work?
Botox blocks nerve signals from reaching the muscles, preventing them from contracting. The result? Smoother skin, with fewer lines. The treatment, which typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes, is great at targeting dynamic wrinkles — such as forehead lines — caused by repeated facial movements.
Procedure and efficacy
Botox injections are quick and minimally invasive, with very little discomfort, though we can apply a little numbing cream before administering the injections. A week to 10 days before your procedure, you should avoid using alcohol and medications that can thin the blood or raise the likelihood of bruising. Patients typically see results within a few days, and they last as long as three to six months, though regular maintenance is needed.
Post-procedure, it’s best not to touch your face, and to keep upright for at least a few hours afterwards. Avoid placing yourself in high heat situations for at leat 24 hours after the treatment, which means no exercise, hot showers, or extended sun exposure. You should also avoid wearing anything tight on your head — the idea is to let the Botox infiltrate the targeted areas, rather than being diffused into other parts of the face.
Medical applications
If you had any doubt whether or not Botox is safe, rest assured it is used to great effect for treating conditions like chronic migraines, hyperhidrosis, lazy eye, muscle spasms, and even overactive bladder.
Adverse effects
Botox may cause temporary bruising, swelling, and redness at the injection site. In rare cases, there may be muscle weakness, drooping eyelids, or asymmetrical facial expressions. It's therefore crucial to choose a skilled professional when doing the treatment — and to disclose your health history, allergies, and medications to your dermatologist. Pregnant women or those who are breastfeeding should avoid this treatment.
There is no doubt that Botox has revolutionised the field of cosmetic enhancements, offering a non-surgical approach to smoother, youthful-looking skin. Whether you should use it depends entirely on your personal skincare goals and concerns; either way, you should make an informed decision after proper consultation with your doctor. Remember, beauty is a personal journey, and confidence first shines from within.