You may not keep track of how many times you have smiled or laughed in your lifetime, but your facial skin holds a record of it. The muscles that create our facial expressions also create some of our stubbornest lines and wrinkles. Botox® smooths these lines to restore a more youthful appearance.
What is Botox®?
Botox® is an injectable wrinkle-smoothing treatment that targets lines around the forehead, brows, and eyes. Botox® also has numerous medical uses, treating muscle spasms, excessive sweating, and migraines. It erases wrinkles by relaxing facial muscles, achieving a more youthful appearance. Botox® has become one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in the world, with millions of treatments administered each year.
How Does Botox® (Botulinum Toxin) Work?
Botox® works using a compound called botulinum toxin. When injected in tiny amounts, botulinum toxin binds to the targeted facial nerves. It stops the nerves from releasing a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine that causes facial muscles to contract. When these muscles relax, lines and wrinkles disappear. Botox® has a well-established safety record and a very low risk of serious side effects.
How Many Units of Botox® Do I Need?
Botox® is usually administered in units. The number of units used depends on the severity of your lines and wrinkles, the size of the area, and other factors. Men may need more Botox® than women due to their more robust facial muscles. Glabellar lines between the brows, also called the 11s, usually respond to 20 to 25 units of Botox®. You may need 15 to 20 units on each side to treat crow’s feet and 30 units to treat the forehead. Actual numbers will vary widely and will depend on how subtle or noticeable you want your results to be.
How Long Does Botox® Last?
You may start to notice Botox® results within a few days. Full results can take seven to ten days to develop. Botox® lasts three to four months for most people. Each person responds differently, so it may fade faster for one person and last longer for another. Many people schedule appointments every few months to maintain their youthful-looking results and prevent future lines and wrinkles.
Botox Consultations Available
Is There Any Downtime With Botox®?
Botox® requires no downtime. You can return to work or other activities immediately after your injections. You will need to avoid strenuous activities for up to 24 hours. Some people experience minor redness, swelling, or bruising in the injection area, but these effects usually fade within a day or two.
Am I a Good Candidate for Botox®?
Most healthy adults make good candidates for Botox®. Good candidates for Botox® want to treat expression lines and wrinkles. You should not have Botox® if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain medical conditions.
