When someone hits around the age of 30, they may notice that the texture and firmness of their skin begin to change.
This is no coincidence. After the age of about 30, the body produces less collagen, which is responsible for plumping up the skin, keeping it smooth, wrinkle-free, and elastic. So, it’s a bit disheartening when that stops.
Luckily, far from needing to have a facelift to correct this, there are many options available for those who are looking for non-surgical treatments. One of the most well-known of these, by far, is botulinum toxin injections.
However, if this is a route you are going down, what do you need to know beforehand? Read on to find out.
How the Injections Work
Botox is also known as botulinum toxin, and it is a neurotoxin that temporarily paralyzes muscles.
Well, technically, that is a bit of a simplistic explanation. What it does is paralyze nerve endings in the muscle, preventing them from being able to cause the muscle to contract.
As you can guess, if this is not done correctly or is overdone, someone can end up with the dreaded ‘frozen face,’ so it is important to ensure that the person who provides this treatment to you has extensive experience with it. If you aren’t sure, ask to see their portfolio of previous work relating to botulinum toxin injections.
What It Is Used For
It is most used for cosmetic purposes to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. The application of the toxin also temporarily boosts the presence of collagen under the skin, causing the skin to look plump.
However, it can also be used for purely medical purposes. For instance, as it paralyzes nerves, it can also be used to reduce migraines by being injected into the back of the neck. Plus, it can also be used to treat incidents of excessive sweating.
How It Is Applied
Botulinum toxin is administered via injections, usually in the forehead, around the eyes, and in the area between the eyebrows. Usually, the injections that are administered will have a precise amount of the toxin based on the severity of the wrinkles and the age of the person who is having them.
These injections can also be applied to the neck, and even the hands, as these, are also areas that can show signs of sagging skin, especially around the jowls of the jaw.
How Long Do the Effects Last?
The effects of Botox typically last 3-6 months, after which the procedure must be repeated to maintain the results.
It’s worth noting that lifestyle can play a huge part in how long the effects of the injection last. For instance, if you smoke, drink alcohol, and do not exercise, then you may notice that the anti-wrinkle element of the treatment does not last as long as it does in other people.
Who Should Administer the Injections?
It is important that you consult with a qualified and licensed healthcare professional before receiving botulinum injections, as the procedure carries certain risks and potential side effects. Indeed, there are many spas and even dental surgeries that can offer this treatment, so be sure that you are happy with the level of expertise that the professional has before proceeding.
