Botox is a drug that is extensively used to alleviate the facial appearance of individuals having wrinkles or any ageing marks. Botox injections are commonly used by celebrities and public figures to maintain their appearance to look as young as possible. However, in recent times, many people have come to know about this procedure and have considered going for it. These cosmetic services are now widely offered by renowned salons and spas like Bloom Aesthetics Medspa amongst many others.
It works by weakening or paralyzing the facial muscles- reducing skin wrinkles and also treating certain cosmetics as well as medical conditions. Botox blocks the nerve impulses directed towards the skin muscle so that the injected muscle doesn’t contract. This results in the wrinkles getting relaxed and softened. Botox injections are used on forehead lines, crow’s feet (lines around the eye), frown lines, lines at the corner of the mouth, and ‘cobblestone’ skin on the chin.
How Is the Botox Procedure Done?
Clinicians use Botulinum toxin by diluting the powder in saline solution and then inject it directly into the specified neuromuscular tissue. Getting injected with a Botox shot hardly takes a few minutes. Minor discomfort is experienced due to the needle prick when it is injected into a certain skin muscle. Hence, there is no need for anaesthesia.
A Botox shot usually takes about one to two weeks to start working properly. It is advised not to consume alcohol a week prior to getting the treatment done. Moreover, it’s also better not to take any aspirin or any anti-inflammatory medications two weeks before the Botox treatment to reduce the chances of getting a bruise.
Once the shot has been injected, that muscle area must not be touched or rubbed for the next 24 hours to prevent the Botox from spreading to another area. Doctors usually recommend their clients to sit in an upright position for about 4 hours after the injection and avoid vigorous exercise.
How Long Is One Shot Effective?
A Botox injection is effective for about 3 to 6 months. As muscle contraction starts to resume, the lines and wrinkles start to reappear. Hence, they need to be treated again however, the lines are not as severe or deep as before as the muscles are shrinking.
Potential Side Effects
There are certain expected side effects that people may experience after getting a Botox injection. It is best to avoid using Botox during pregnancy and lactation. This symptom can be a result of an allergic reaction to the drug or any of its ingredients. Common symptoms include light bruising which usually fades away with time. Headaches or migraines are also experienced that last for about 2 to 3 days.
Eyelid drooping. Some people also observe drooping eyelids for a while, but this usually goes away after 3 weeks. It happens when the Botox moves around when you rub it, so avoid touching the area immediately. Other symptoms include eye dryness, severe tearing, and a crooked smile. Some people also feel lethargic, numb and weak in nearby muscles after the injection.
