What Is Botox?
Botox is a type of medication called a “neuromodulator” – it is a medication that temporarily relaxes muscles to reduce signs of aging. By doing so gives the skin a smoother, more youthful appearance.
What Should You Do the Day before Botox?
About 24 hours before botox treatments, it is advised to withhold from alcohol, and anti-inflammatory medications such as advil, ibuprofen, naproxen, etc. It is also best to arrive to your appointment with clean, makeup-free skin.
What Is the Difference between Botox and Dysport?
Botox and dysport work similarly in that they are both neuromodulators that temporarily relax muscles to reduce signs of aging. They are both brand name medications from different pharmaceutical companies. Botox tends to have a dime size area of spread with each injection, whereas dysport has a nickel size spread. Dysport tends to kick in a little quicker, spread more naturally and most clients tend to notice their treatments last a little longer.
Preventative Care with Botox/Dysport
Botox and dysport not only help treat existing wrinkles, but also help prevent future ones from forming. It is important to note that after the first treatment, smoothing out of dynamic wrinkles (wrinkles created with facial expression) will be most noticeable. After about 8-12 months of consistent treatment, you can start to see significant improvement in your static wrinkles (wrinkles present at rest). This is because static wrinkles are created over time with repetitive facial movements. Results for static wrinkles will vary from person to person considering age, genetics, etc. Any time you are able to create deep lines with facial expression, you will be contributing to these wrinkles becoming more permanent! Therefore, for the best results, it is best to schedule follow up appointments BEFORE full movement of facial muscles return.
Top Reasons to Get Botox:
- Smoother appearance and more youthful look of skin
- Prevents future facial wrinkles
- Treats existing facial wrinkles
- Makeup sits more flawlessly on skin
- Reduces facial muscle tension and occurrence of headaches
Treatment Areas
The most commonly treated areas are the wrinkles found in the forehead, 11’s/frown lines (between the eyebrows) and crowsfeet (around the eyes).
Other Uses Include:
- Bunny lines (nose)
- Upper lip wrinkles
- Lip flip
- Downward turned smile
- Neck bands
- TMJ pain
- Migraines
Common Side Effects
Most people tolerate botox and dysport injections well without any kind of side effects, however these are the most common:
- Headache
- Feeling of “heaviness” to forehead
- Pinpoint bruising
Complications
Most people do not ever run into complications from receiving botox and dysport treatments, however there is always a small chance one may occur.
- Peaked brows
- Eyelid droop
Chances of complications can be reduced by following post-procedure care instructions, and by seeing a provider who is experienced in this area.
