Getting a new procedure can be daunting! To make this process more accessible to everyone, I have put together a few things you should know before your first Botox appointment.
1. Trust the process!!
The first time you get injected with Botox can be scary and confusing. There is so much misinformation out there, so I always like to put my patients at ease when discussing Botox by answering some of the frequently asked questions. Yes, Botox is derived from Botulinum Toxin, and is a purified protein complex called onabotulinumtoxinA. Botox Cosmetic is a relatively safe prescription when in the right hands, when injected into the FDA approved areas, and when given in the correct dosages. Very few adverse effects are reported when Botox is used as intended.
Consultation is the most important piece when discussing Botox with your health care provider. Be sure you choose someone who is willing to take the time to understand your goals and answer any of your questions beforehand.
2. Pick your provider carefully.
Make sure the provider has been trained to do Botox injections, is a medical provider, and has other patients recommending them. You can also ask to see if you are actually being injected with Botox, I hate to say it but there is counterfeit Botox on the market, so please don’t be shy and ask to see the label.
3. Understand your timeline.
Botox takes 2 full weeks to work and lasts 2-4 months, but it is at its strongest until around week 4. If you have special events coming up, please get your injections a month before. This allows for the peak Botox to wear off, but also allows for any touch ups that may be needed. I’d like to report that I nail everyone’s Botox the first time I inject them, but I don’t always know how your body will tolerate and react this medication, so sometimes it takes multiple treatments before we find the perfect “recipe” for you 😊
4. Protect your investment!
Don’t spend a ton of money on Botox treatments but neglect your sunscreen and other anti-aging skin care products. It all works together to contribute to your overall results.
At Wellness for Life, we have a skin care expert on staff and professional grade skin care products to get you off on the right foot for your post-Botox skin care routine.
