What is Botox?
Botox® Cosmetic is an injectable neurotoxin derived from bacteria called botulinum toxin type A. In the field of aesthetics it is injected in small amounts into the muscles of the face which lead to a relaxation of the muscles which cause forehead lines, glabellar lines and crows feet. Clinically it is used in the treatment of a variety of other disorders as well including lip lines, gummy smiles, wide jaw muscles, chronic migraine, underarm sweating, anal fistulas and more.
Very small amounts of the neurotoxin are used to prevent signal conduction along nerves that cause muscles to contract. Therefore, the toxin causes the muscles to relax. The toxin is sold under various trade names like Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® and Jeuveau®
7 Simple Steps to prepare for your botox appointment
Botulinum toxin injections are relatively safe but there are a few things to keep in mind before your appointment. Below are the 7 simple steps to prepare for your Botox appointment. You want to be sure to mention certain medications and herbal supplements you are taking with your practitioner. Avoid consuming alcohol the night/day of your appointment, clean your skin and do not wear make up to your appointment, creams to apply to decrease chance of bruising.
#1 One week prior to your treatment date
Stop taking any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, etc. as wells as herbal supplements like ginko biloba, Vitamin E, fish oil, Omega 3, ginsing, tumeric, EPO, garlic, St. Johns Wart, and milk thistle.
#2 Increase consumption of leafy green vegetables
Foods high in vitamin K will decrease the chance of bruising and swelling.
#3 Clean your skin
Before injection your practitioner will disinfect your skin with an alcohol pad but you want to make sure your skin is free of dirt and cosmetic make up prior to your appointment. Wash your face with a mild soap and rinse with warm water, then pat your face dry with a clean towel. Do not apply make-up to your face at the time of your appointment.
#4 Do not smoke or drink alcohol prior to your botox appointment
Stop smoking cigarettes 48hrs before your appointment. Tobacco compromises blood flow to the skin and interferes with healing and increases your chance of bruising.
Do not consume alcohol for at least 24hrs before your botox appointment.
#5 Plan your botox appointment around social events
Along with injections there comes a chance of bruising. You should not plan on attending any special social events or work function within a week of your appointment in case you do develop bruising.
Do not lay down for 6hrs after your botox injection.
No intense physical activity for at least 24hrs after your botox injection.
Do not take NSAIDS within 24hrs of your injection. Take acetaminophen for pain if needed.
#6 Consider starting Arnica supplements and creams
Arnica has been shown to decrease the incidence of bruising, pain and swelling after injections. Arnica supplements can be started the day prior to your procedure or the day of and continued afterwards if you develop bruising. These may be stopped once the bruising resolves. Various creams are also available which may be applied before your procedure.
#7 Know what to expect in terms of cost
Botox pricing varies widely average cost can range between $10-$20 per unit (don’t forget to check out our unbeatable prices). Recommended units of injection depend on the area to be injected and if its your first time being injected or its a follow up appointment. Manufacturer recommended dosages is a total of; 20Units for the forehead; 20Units for glabellar lines (frown lines); and 24Units for both lateral canthal lines (crows feet).
How long will it take to see results from Botox?
You should start seeing effects of Botox after the first few days after injection ~3-5days. Peak effect does not occur until about 2weeks. This fact is important to keep in mind because unlike fillers, the effect of Botox is not immediate and you should wait at least 2weeks before considering potential re-injection.
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