EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BOTOX

It’s no secret that over the past decade, the popularity of botox has grown exponentially. In 2018, it was estimated by The American Society of Plastic Surgeons, that over seven million people received botox. As we all know, botox is mostly used wrinkles and fine lines on the face. However, botox can be used for other issues on the face and in other areas of the body. On the face, botox can be used on the forehead to help relieve headaches. On the body, it can be used on the underarms to stop sweating. Botox sounds amazing right? So, what exactly is it? What is being injected into our body? Through this article, we will go into all the details and points you need to consider when looking in to botox treatments.

What is Botox?

Botulinum toxin is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Once injected into the muscle, the nerves are suppressed. This paralysis of the muscle is what stops the movement and smooths wrinkles. In addition to paralysis of the nerves, pain and inflammatory mediators are also affected. Because of this, botox is also often used to treat migraines.

What to Consider Before Getting Botox

Having botox done is usually very safe when done by a trained professional. However, it wouldn’t hurt to do some checking before you commit. Here’s a few things to take into consideration before you dive in:

- Check the person doing the dermal fillers is on a register to show they meet the standards of training and skill

- Avoid practitioners who have only completed a short course

- Book a consultation before your procedure

- Ask about the practitioner’s experience and qualifications

- Ask the name of the product which will be used and where it’s made

- Ensure you are made aware of any, and all risks involved

- Ask about any side effect

What to Expect

With any procedure, there are always side-effects you will be made aware of by your practitioner before the treatment. Some of the side-effects include:

- Slight bruising on the area being treated (like the bruise you may have after a jab)

- Swelling

- Headache

- Discomfort

- Muscle weakness

These side-effects do fade over a couple of weeks, once the botox has settled into the treated area. If you have any concerns during this time, contact your practitioner straight away.The effects of the botox do wear off over time, so you will need top up sessions. How quickly they wear off is individual to each person and the area which was targeted. The frequency which you have your top ups should be discussed with your practitioner; during you consultation and after your treatment they will give you a rough idea of what to expect.