Thinking about trying Botox for the first time? You’re not alone. Whether you’re smoothing out fine lines or looking for a little preventative maintenance, Botox is one of the most popular aesthetic treatments for a reason.
What Is Botox?
Botox is a neurotoxin that temporarily relaxes facial muscles, which helps smooth out dynamic wrinkles caused by movement—like crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead creases. It’s a quick, non-surgical treatment that typically takes less than 30 minutes and delivers results that last 3–4 months.
Step 1: Your Consultation
Before anything happens, your provider will sit down with you for a detailed consultation. You’ll talk through your:
- Areas of concern (forehead lines? between the brows? crow’s feet?)
- Past medical history
- Skin goals and expectations
- Any previous injectable experience
Your injector will also assess your facial structure and muscle movement to determine the right dose and placement for your Botox. This is your time to ask questions, there’s no pressure to commit on the spot.
Step 2: The Treatment Itself
Once you’ve agreed on a plan, you’ll move forward with the injections. Here’s what you can expect:
- The treatment area is cleansed, and your provider may mark the injection points.
- A very fine needle is used to inject small amounts of Botox into specific muscles.
- Most patients describe the sensation as a quick pinch or pressure—not painful, just slightly uncomfortable.
- The entire process usually takes 10–15 minutes.
- There’s no anesthesia required, no downtime, and you can go back to work or errands right after.
Step 3: What Happens After
Botox is known as a “lunchtime treatment” because recovery is so minimal. However, there are a few simple post-care guidelines you’ll want to follow:
- Don’t rub or massage the treated areas for 24 hours.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, lying down, or wearing tight hats/headbands for the rest of the day.
- Skip alcohol and blood-thinning medications (like Advil or aspirin) for a day to minimize the risk of bruising.
When Will I See Results?
Botox doesn’t kick in instantly—it gradually works over a few days. Most people start to see visible softening of lines around 3 to 5 days, with full results in 7 to 10 days. Results typically last 3 to 4 months, depending on how your body metabolizes the product.
Is It Safe?
When performed by a licensed, trained medical provider, Botox is extremely safe. It’s FDA-approved and has been used for cosmetic purposes for over 20 years. Be sure to visit a reputable medspa or medical professional who takes time to understand your anatomy and goals.
Still have questions? Reach out to our team to schedule a consultation and see if Botox is the right fit for you. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.