Botox® is a purified protein, authorized for sale by Heath Canada and the FDA to treat moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet, and horizontal lines on the forehead.
Botox® Cosmetic contains onabotulinum toxin A. When this substance is injected, how it works is by simply relaxing the facial muscle underneath the skin to create a smooth and refreshed appearance. While this only targets the wrinkles that appear when you make facial expressions, you can consider getting an injectable filler treatment with hyaluronic acid at the same time for any wrinkles and creases that are permanently visible.
Botox® lasts for about 3-4 months after you’ve been treated. After that, the effect gradually decreases until muscles return to normal; this is about six months after the treatment. If you follow the direction of booking your first 3 appointments promptly every 3 months, you can eventually increase the duration results of each treatment. There are no long-term effects. No – BOTOX Cosmetic is not permanent.
Botox® and fillers are two types of injectables, which are both injected with a needle. The biggest difference between Botox® and fillers is that Botox® is used to reduce fine lines and wrinkles by freezing the underlying muscle movement, fillers on the other hand will fill in wrinkles.
Even without a numbing agent, pain is minimal, and you may only feel a little pinch. Injections are very quick and with a trained medical professional, you may not even notice when they happen.
In general, you will be able to see the effects of Botox® as early as 3 to 4 days after an injection. Most patients will see full results within 10 to 14 days, but you should wait the full 14 days to see the maximum results of your treatment.
Depending on your desired results, Botox® may prevent you from making some facial expressions. It’s crucial to find an experienced medical injector to listen to your concerns and talk you through the process, so you know exactly what to expect. Some patients opt for less Botox® to start, and then gradually increase for the desired look.
There is no downtime or recovery time for Botox® injections. You may resume normal activities immediately. One note of caution: your medical injector will instruct you against laying down or any exercise for the 4 hours immediately after your treatment.
