Aging and fine wrinkles is one of the most common problems that all of us face. While there are various options available to control the same, there are not many options available when you are looking for quick results.
Botox treatment is one such option which can provide you visible results but one needs to be careful as it does have side effects.
Our botox guide resolves all your queries around the botox process so that you can make a better judjement. We specifically cover:-
- What is botox – the process and how it works
- Benefits of botox
- Botox side effects
- How does botox work
- How long does botox last
- Precautions and our final take
What Is Botox ?
Botox is a drug made from Botulinum toxin and is used to treat wrinkles, reduce fine lines along with a host of other issues.
The bacteria Clostridium botulinumis is responsible for producing Botulinum toxin which is the main ingredient of the botox drug.
Doctors use botox to treat problems like:
- Reducing facial wrinkles
- Unmanageable blinking
- Excessive sweating
- Migrane
Botox usually comes in a powder form and the dermatologist dilutes it with saline before injecting it in the specific area.
Also check out our article on celebrities with botox as we list top 25 celebs who have admitted to botox usage.
How Does Botox Work ?
Botox works by weakening certain muscles or by blocking the communication between nerves and the muscles in the specific area where the botox injections are given.
In short, botox reduces or blocks the communication signals between nerves and muscles. As the muscles can not contract, the wrinkles tend to disappear.
Botox can treat face wrinkles, migranes and variety of other issues. Normally, its effect is localized to the area where the botox injections are taken.
How Long Does It Take For Botox Injections To Show Results
Botox works directly on the decreasing the communication between the nerves and the muscles.
Once botox injections are taken, one can expect to see the results in 4-6 days. The exact time taken by a person to show the result can vary as it is dependent on multiple factors.
One needs to be careful not to rub the area where botox injections are given so that chances of it spreading to nearby areas is minimized.
Where Is Botox Most Commonly Used
Botox is found to be effective in reducing face wrinkles and fine lines. It is most commonly used on the face to reduce the wrinkles. Specifically, it is used to control forehead wrinkles and fine lines in the periphery of the eyes.
But apart from reducing the appearance of fine lines on the face, it is also found to be effective in treating migranes, excessive blinking and bladder problems.
How Long Does Botox Last ?
The effect can last from 3-4 months upto 10-12 months depending upon a variety of factors.
Botox is not a permanent solution to face wrinkles or other issues. Over a period of time, the effect of botox reduces and muscles start communicating freely with the nerves. This means that the muscles start contracting again as they follow the nerves instructions and fine lines start reappearing. To get the results consistently, one has to get botox injections again.
The effect of botox for the first timers can be usually for lesser time. Do note that botox does not impact sensation and one can feel all the reactions even after taking botox injections.
Benefits Of Botox
There are numerous botox benefits and a few of these might even surprise you.
- It is a non surgical cosmetic treatment which can reduce wrinkles on the face in a few days.
- It is effective against multiple other issues like migranes, excessive sweating, neck spasms etc.
- It works to treat a drooping brow which makes one look tired. With botox, one can avoid this issue to get a fresh look all the time.
Botox Side Effects
When taken in minute quantities, botox is considered relatively safe. However, there are a few side effects of botox and the key ones include
- Pain or swelling in the injected area
- Stomach upset or flu
- Headache
- Allergic reactions or itching
Botox side effects can vary as per individual but it is important to pick the right dermatologist who can handle the overall process better.
In specific cases like eyes, botox side effects can also include dry eyes and tearing.
One needs to be careful about the symptoms after taking botox injections. There can be common side effects like swelling which usually goes away after a few hours, but in a few cases, there can be severe botox side effects as well.
In case one experiences difficulty to breathe, speak or see, one should immediately visit the doctor. There are other rare side effects of botox like general weakness or loss of control over bladder but the presence of experienced professional minimizes the risk.
Does The Body Gets Used To Botox ?
No, The body does not get used to botox neither it becomes dependent on the same.
Botox works by blocking the communication channel between nerves and the muscles, and its impact lasts for a few months once it is taken.
After a few months, one can expect the effect of botox injections to decrease.
Depending upon the muscle size and the area, the reappearance of fine lines or the issue for which botox treatment was used can vary.
Botox effect will last longer in smaller muscles as compared to bigger muscles.
Also Read: Microdermabrasion Treatment: Pros, Cons and Side Effects
Precautions To Be Taken With Botox
- Always go for a certified professional dermatologist or a plastic surgeon if you plan to go for botox injections
- If you are pregnant or are breastfeeding, you should postpone the plan to get botox.
- Avoid rubbing the area where you have taken botox injections
Final Take
While deciding to go for botox is an individuals decision, always explore the tradeoff between the pros and cons of botox. As the effect of botox is temporary, one is expected to repeat the procedure after every few months.
If you decide to go for it, always make sure to choose a certified dermatologist or the plastic surgeon even if the price goes high.
Botox along with its impact as well as side effects are dependent on the skill of the doctor. The dosage along with minute control over the injections all play an important role in getting the desired results.
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