How Long Does Botox Treatment Last?
Wrinkles can make you appear older than you feel. Dynamic wrinkles are caused by years of making facial expressions, and they’re a natural part of aging. However, there is a tried and true solution to reduce their appearance. At Eternal Dermatology + Aesthetics in Fulton, MD, we recommend Botox treatment as an effective option for most individuals with moderate signs of aging.
How Long Does Botox Treatment Last?
One of the main benefits of Botox is its longevity. On average, most people can enjoy the effects of the treatment for up to three to four months. This means you’ll only need to schedule a few appointments a year to maintain your youthful appearance.
However, it’s important to note that the duration of the results can vary depending on several factors, such as your age, the severity of your wrinkles, your gender, and your level of physical activity. For instance, very active people may not see the results last as long because their metabolisms quickly break down the neurotoxin.
How Does It Work?
Botox is a non-surgical injectable treatment made from a purified form of botulinum toxin. This toxin works by disrupting the communication between the nerves and muscles in your face.
By blocking these signals, Botox keeps your facial muscles relaxed and prevents them from contracting, which in turn reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. By relaxing the muscles, your skin becomes smoother, and wrinkles appear less visible.
Does This Treatment Make Your Face Look Frozen?
A common misconception about Botox is that it will leave you unable to move your face. But that’s not the case. After treatment, you will still be able to make subtle facial expressions, and your face will not be “frozen” or stiff.
Another important thing to note is that you will still be able to feel your face after treatment. Botox only affects the communication between motor neurons and the brain; it does not affect the sensory neurons. So you will still be able to feel sensations as normal.
How Quickly Will You See Results?
When you receive a Botox treatment, you will likely notice the results in two phases. The first phase is immediately after your appointment. During this time, you may experience slight stiffness as the neurotoxin begins to work on your muscles. But after a few days, as your body adjusts to the treatment, your muscles will relax, and you’ll see your full results develop. Generally, people see the full effects of the treatment within two weeks.
Is This a Safe Treatment?
Yes, Botox is considered a safe treatment option. The FDA has approved the use of this neurotoxin injectable for treating dynamic wrinkles on the face, excessive sweating, migraines, and TMJ. It is also well-tolerated by most people.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
If you have age-related skin concerns, you are likely a good candidate for Botox treatment. It’s approved for anyone over the age of 18, and it works very well on mild to moderate wrinkles in both men and women. More and more men are using Botox these days, too: about 20% of those who seek treatment with this neurotoxin are male, and for men, the treatment even has an affectionate new name: Brotox.
The best way to know if you’re a candidate is to come to talk to us in a consultation so we can look at your skin, consider your goals, and evaluate your medical history. The only people who do not qualify for treatment with this product are those who are allergic to its ingredients, anyone with a history of severe allergic reactions, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How Do You Prepare for Treatment?
There is very little you will need to do to prepare for this treatment. We will give you specific instructions at your consultation, but for the most part, you will just need to avoid taking certain medications and supplements that can thin the blood. This includes over-the-counter products like St. John’s wort and aspirin. You’ll only need to do this for a few days before your appointment.
What Do I Need to Do Afterward?
After treatment, just follow the instructions we give you closely. There are not a lot of them, but they will allow you to get the best results and keep them for as long as possible. You will need, for example, to avoid touching or rubbing your face for the first several hours. Doing so can cause the product to travel to other muscles in your face so that you don’t get the expected results. You will also see the best results if you continue to avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements for a few more days after treatment.
Contact Us to Get Started or Learn More
If you have wrinkles that are bothering you, contact us at Eternal Dermatology + Aesthetics in Fulton, MD, today. We can tell you more about this treatment and help you decide the right way to get your best look! You can also schedule online here.