BOTOX has been dominating the cosmetic industry for years, but just ten years ago the name was still synonymous with an overdone and frozen look. However, in a new decade where aesthetic procedures are more popular than ever before and injectables like BOTOX, Juvederm, and other minimally invasive procedures are household names, can the injectable giant keep up?
Everything from statistics to anecdotal patient evidence prove that BOTOX still reigns and has room to continue to grow in the expanding space of aesthetics. Injectors of all kinds also remain loyal to the product and continue to use it for basic wrinkle reduction procedures to more experimental off-label treatments that continue to be on the rise.
BOTOX is here to stay and for good reason. In this article we will explore 26 reasons why BOTOX remains supreme in aesthetics
BOTOX is the right injectable to lead a new era of aesthetics
Let’s review the basics of BOTOX – what it is, how it was discovered, and existing arguments against BOTOX. Afterwards, we’ll dive into each of the 26 reasons why BOTOX is still a top choice in aesthetics.
BOTOX injections are used to treat diverse cosmetic and medical conditions. The toxin in BOTOX, called onobotulinumtoxinA, can temporarily paralyze muscle movement.
The substance in BOTOX is the same toxin that causes botulism. BOTOX Cosmetic has achieved a purified and safe form of the toxin. When injected, BOTOX temporarily freezes the facial muscles, therefore preventing them from creating or deepening wrinkles, crow’s feet, or furrows in the skin.
BOTOX was the first drug to utilize botulinum toxin, but other drugs including Dysport and Xeomin have now taken advantage of the paralytic properties of the toxin.
Normally, nerve signals alert facial muscles to form expressions, causing them to contract. Over time, muscle contractions form wrinkles.
BOTOX works by temporarily blocking those nerve signals, thereby limiting muscle contractions and wrinkle development. BOTOX softens the appearance of wrinkles and slows the formation of new lines.
BOTOX is a minimally invasive aesthetic treatment – there are no incisions or anesthesia injections necessary.
This is what you can expect during a BOTOX procedure:
Ask your doctor which activities you should avoid right after your treatment, but you should be able to get back to your normal routine immediately. The smoothing effects of BOTOX will continue to develop over days or even weeks, and will wear off after about 4-6 months.
Healthy individuals who are at least 18 years of age can receive BOTOX injections. Be sure to tell your doctor about all of your medications and supplements prior to treatment.
Groups who cannot safely get BOTOX injections include those who are pregnant or nursing, as well as individuals that have:
BOTOX has reigned supreme. It is the most popular cosmetic procedure on the market, surgical or non-surgical, by far.
7.44 million BOTOX procedures were administered in 2018 alone, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Clearly, this is a procedure that produces some fantastic results, and treats a wide variety of cosmetic and medical needs.
Researchers at Northwestern University wanted to find out why BOTOX has maintained such popularity over the years, so they conducted a survey.
Out of the members of the study, 86% were women, and almost 56% of them were nearly 45 years old. ¾ of the individuals were white, and almost all respondents were college-educated.
Here’s what the researchers discovered about the common motivating factors behind getting BOTOX injections. Keep in mind that the surveyed individuals chose all of the answers that applied to them.
It appears that a growing number of young individuals are using BOTOX. Many women in their twenties and thirties are using BOTOX for “preventive” or early maintenance. Almost 20% of BOTOX users are in the 30-39 age demographic, indicating that the BOTOX trend is starting younger and will continue to grow in the coming years.
To learn more about Millennials and preventive BOTOX, check out the video below.
As with any innovation, there are plenty of arguments against BOTOX. Let’s address the most common arguments against BOTOX.
BOTOX is the same toxin that causes botulism, a life-threatening form of food poisoning, so how can it possibly be safe for human use, especially long-term use?
Counterargument: Controlled substances are harmless.
Even botulism, when contracted naturally, has various levels of severity based on the amount and location of the toxin. Not everyone who contracts botulism dies or even experiences side effects.
That is exactly what BOTOX professionals have learned – how to harness the power of the toxin without administering it in harmful quantities.
A small handful of BOTOX cases has been investigated. Millions receive BOTOX each year, and only 36 cases of adverse effects have been reported to the US FDA between 1989 and 2003.
There have been some potential reactions to BOTOX and possible deaths from other uses of BOTOX (for example, in the legs of children with cerebral palsy). Even in these cases, the reactions may have had more to do with the patient’s underlying health conditions than the BOTOX itself.
No deaths from BOTOX Cosmetic have ever been documented. In fact, no severe reactions from BOTOX have ever been proven.
If you are healthy, it is fair to say that BOTOX is a very safe drug. To increase your safety even further, it’s always best to go to a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon for BOTOX injections. You can reach out to your local cosmetic specialists via telehealth or HIPAA compliant texting, depending on what the practices offer.
Some argue that people who receive BOTOX overcompensate with other muscles when they try to make facial expressions. This can create new wrinkles.
In a news story from Cornell, Dr. David S. Becker says, “After receiving BOTOX, a patient may unconsciously attempt to recreate the facial expressions in the area where the treatment has paralyzed their facial muscles.” Because of that, “other, nearby muscles compensate—this can have the effect of actually creating new wrinkles.”
For example, when scowl lines are treated, muscles in the upper nose, middle eyebrow and eyelid may attempt to recreate the expression of the scowl. With repetitions of this new action, new wrinkles are formed.
Here are the reasons why BOTOX is still worth it, even with the risk of developing new lines:
Others say BOTOX is no longer necessary because of Dysport. Dysport, Xeomin and other botulinum toxin treatments are more affordable than BOTOX, and do essentially the same thing.
Counterargument: BOTOX has far more cosmetic and medical uses than Dysport or other competitors.
Dysport is also more diluted than BOTOX, so you’ll need more treatments to get the same effect. To get a better idea of the differences between BOTOX and Dysport, read on below (reason 2: BOTOX is Better than Dysport).
Actually, no one is arguing that BOTOX is a passing fad. Even with the various arguments against BOTOX out there, everyone recognizes that BOTOX is here to stay. The truth is, BOTOX is one of the best and most effective cosmetic procedures on the market, and the most widely applicable as well.
Despite the rise in “, a look that is distinguished by sharp contouring (often accomplished by dermal fillers), many patients simply want something that will enhance their natural features. In fact, the trend of Skinimalism and focusing on skincare and natural beauty has been on the rise as a result of staying in during 2020 and 2021, a trend which BOTOX fits in nicely with.
When done by a skilled injector, BOTOX creates smooth and wrinkle free skin while still allowing the patient to create expressions. For many, this allows them to wear less makeup, take a step or two out of their skincare routine, and enjoy more makeup free looks.
As the world as aesthetics and skincare continue to grow, a well-studied and trusted treatment like BOTOX can act as a cornerstone for those looking to begin their journey into injectables and other procedures. BOTOX can also change the way women and men look at the way they approach their skincare routine.
In a world where face masks and video-calls have become the norm, some have started to wonder if it is even worth the hassle to get aesthetic procedures till the pandemic passes.
However, many have found that looking their best helps them to feel better during many of the other challenges that have come with COVID-19 and social-distancing.
BOTOX has particular advantages to other aesthetic treatments such as lip fillers as the benefits of treatment are still noticeable even with a facemask on. The main areas BOTOX treats, such as the forehead and between the eyebrows are highly noticeable with a mask on and even over video calls. Having these areas smooth and wrinkle free can help you feel your best even with the limitations of the pandemic. You can also receive the treatment from your provider without having to remove your mask or other protective wear.
If you’re looking for a pick-me-up in the midst of quarantine, BOTOX is the perfect treatment to lift your look.
The cosmetic success of BOTOX has led many other companies to create their own neurotoxin injectables in an attempt to reach the growing marketing of patients looking for such treatments. While the main concept of these injectables is similar(to relax to muscles at the site of injection to minimize wrinkles), not all injectables are created the same. There are some differences when it comes to neurotoxin injectables that both providers and patients should consider.
There are several neurotoxin injectables designed to treat many of the same concerns of BOTOX, including:
Before you decide whether Dysport or BOTOX is right for you, you’ll need to talk with your physician. Reach out and schedule a telehealth or in-person treatment. Your doctor might even provide HIPAA texting options for your convenience.
There’s no need for anesthesia during BOTOX, because you’re only going to feel a small pinch. The painlessness of the procedure is what makes BOTOX so fast, simple and noninvasive.
Of course, your doctor may recommend a topical anesthesia to numb you completely – it’s really up to you. However, patients get to avoid any anesthesia injections with BOTOX, including the risks that coe with it.
Many cosmetic procedures require extensive anesthesia measures, which come with significant drawbacks.
General anesthesia is used with most plastic surgeries, including facelifts, tummy tucks, breast augmentations and more.
Potential side effects of general anesthesia include:
For many people, general anesthesia is downright dangerous, including patients who have:
Overweight patients, elderly patients and patients who smoke are also not good candidates for general anesthesia. Those who take blood thinning medications like aspirin may also be endangered by general anesthesia.
Serious adverse reactions to general anesthesia include heart attack, pneumonia and stroke.
Besides the risk, patients also can reap the benefits of the convenience of being able to drive themselves to and from their appointment and not having any post-treatment safety concerns related to anesthesia.
There are small dangers that come with BOTOX as well, but serious risks are virtually nonexistent. It would be unfortunate to add the risk of anesthesia onto such a low-risk procedure.
You don’t have to use any anesthesia before BOTOX.
However, topical anesthesia is the least harmful of all of your numbing options. Many patients prefer to use a topical anesthetic before BOTOX because it makes them feel more comfortable during the injections. Possible side effects are minor and never permanent, including:
Research shows that local anesthetics do not diminish the efficacy of botulinum toxin. Ask your doctor if they recommend topical anesthetic before your procedure – they may supply it for you.
One of the biggest costs of plastic surgery is the time cost. Many procedures require significant planning and healing time. For most cosmetic surgeries, patients must sacrifice weeks of vacation time from work.
You shouldn’t have to clear your calendar for weeks just to feel more confident about yourself.
BOTOX is a non-surgical treatment. That means that you won’t have to factor in the lengthy recovery time that you would with a traditional cosmetic procedure.
BOTOX means:
Along with the usual recovery time of a cosmetic procedure comes another risk – becoming addicted to pain killers. After most plastic surgeries, individuals need medication to cope with severe recovery pains. The link between opioid addiction and cosmetic surgery is far too strong.
Researchers examined data on 466,677 people who had plastic and reconstructive procedures on the nose, breast, abdomen and soft tissue between 2007 and 2015. Nearly 55% of patients received painkiller prescriptions afterwards, and 92% were filled.
Patients who filled an opioid prescription before or after surgery were three times as likely as those who didn’t to still be using opioids up to six months or even a year later.
With BOTOX, you avoid this potential negative aspect of recovery as well.
Many doctors refer to BOTOX as a “lunch time procedure,” because patients can come in and get BOTOX done during their lunch hour, and return immediately to work. The injection feels similar to a mosquito bite, and side effects are minimal.
Even other noninvasive procedures like fillers induce swelling, redness, bruising and tenderness. The effects will resolve in a few days to a week, but most individuals will set aside a full week of recovery before attending any special events.
However, BOTOX is a neurotoxin, and the main side effect is minimal and temporary swelling. Most patients return immediately to their lives right away.
Even minor swelling can be reduced further if your doctor uses proper injection techniques, and you follow your post-injection instructions.
To reduce your side effects as much as possible:
There might be fewer side effects to BOTOX than any other aesthetic procedure. The most commonly reported side effects are minimal swelling and bruising near the injection site.
Bruising around the eyes is common, but still only occurs in 6-25% of people.
Headaches can occur, but only in 1% of people. These headaches last 24-48 hours post-procedure.
Eyelid drooping occurs in 5.4% of people, but resolves itself within 2-4 weeks.
Other common side effects include:
The side effects of BOTOX are more annoying than scary, and all of the side effects are temporary. In fact, many side effects resolve themselves within hours.
What about other side effects of BOTOX? Potential serious side effects include flu-like symptoms, eye pain, vision trouble, difficulty swallowing, and seizure. Contact your physician immediately if this occurs.
You should know that any side effects besides swelling and bruising are extremely rare. Very few side effects have ever been reported to the FDA or CDC – and millions upon millions of people have undergone BOTOX.
It is completely possible to have very little swelling or no side effects from your BOTOX treatment. The secret?
Pick the right provider. Choose a highly qualified and experienced provider, and your risk of side effects is almost zero. Ask your provider what they recommend you do to eliminate side effects.
Remember – BOTOX has been used for 20 years and is one of the most extensively studied medical aesthetic treatments in the world.
BOTOX can fully develop between 3-5 days. For others, results develop for up to 14 days. To see a real before-and-after BOTOX experience, watch the short video below.
Results are usually not visible the same day, which is normal in plastic surgery – whether you’re in recovery or waiting for your results, no one will get to see them right away.
BOTOX binds at a connection point between muscles and nerves called the motor endplate. Injections must be absorbed by the nerve cells, and then slowly work their way into the muscles.
Once BOTOX sinks into the muscle groups and the muscles stop contracting, the appearance of lines and wrinkles on the skin begin to lessen. It takes only days or weeks to see the final and fantastic results.
BOTOX is not like working out, eating healthy, taking supplements, drinking more water, doing facial exercises, or applying expensive skin creams.
There are so many things we do diligently for weeks, months, or even years on end. We see results, but they may not be totally transformative.
BOTOX is a breath of fresh air. After a quick procedure, you will see evident results within days.
The most important of all 25 reasons why BOTOX is the king: BOTOX delivers superior results.
Facial exercises and skin creams are only moderately effective. Many individuals will find they aren’t very effective at all.
The reason that BOTOX is so popular is that it works. Study after study proves that it is a safe and effective way to look younger.
BOTOX can take 5-7 years of aging off your face. BOTOX effectively treats:
Keep in mind that wrinkles caused by sun damage or gravity will not respond to BOTOX.
Not only does BOTOX deliver immediate results, but it also becomes more effective over time.
After repetitive treatments, muscles become trained not to make wrinkle-forming expressions as often. It’s a combination of muscle memory and self-awareness. As the BOTOX wears off, the patient is fully aware when they make wrinkle-forming expressions, and try not to make them.
BOTOX is highly effective for both erasing wrinkles and treating many medical conditions, including stubborn depression, excessive sweating, and movement disorders.
When BOTOX first made its debut, most people feared that their faces would look frozen or fake with BOTOX.
In today’s world, many people are beginning to understand that BOTOX can be very natural-looking.
Although your expressions may not be as exaggerated, BOTOX Cosmetic will allow you to maintain natural facial expressions.
Another perk of BOTOX is that your provider can focus on one or two areas only. You don’t have to change your whole face with BOTOX.
You may have seen a certain BOTOX look that you don’t like. However, your BOTOX treatment is completely customizable to your preferences.
For every individual you have seen with bad BOTOX, you have probably seen dozens more attractive individuals that you didn’t even know had BOTOX done!
It’s a fair concern. No one wants to look fake. There is such a thing as “bad BOTOX.”
However, there are steps you can take to pave the way to an ideal BOTOX experience.
When choosing your BOTOX provider, opt for a plastic surgeon or med spa with a long track record of outstanding results and happy patients. Read all of their reviews and check out their before and after photos. Each provider may have their own style, so it’s important you choose a provider whose BOTOX style lines up with your own.
Once you have an idea of who you would like to see, schedule a consult appointment. During the consultation, you will get a better feel of the clinic and provider before scheduling your official BOTOX treatment.
You won’t be alone – your provider will be asking you a lot of questions, too, to ensure you are a good candidate for treatment.
If you’re with an experienced provider, you have absolutely nothing to worry about with BOTOX. It is the first and only FDA-approved treatment proven to reduce wrinkles and forehead, crow’s feet and frown lines. Countless studies have proven the effectiveness and safety of BOTOX.
The worst part of BOTOX is that facial injections sound a little scary. However, all doctors will tell you that the health risks associated with BOTOX are minimal.
Dr. Arthur Perry, M.D. commented, “It’s an extraordinarily safe drug. The downsides are related to the artistic abilities of the doctor.”
Most likely, the worst thing that would happen would be that you don’t love your results. However, as long as you do your homework on your provider, you have nothing to worry about.
While there is also a sliver of a chance of an allergic reaction, Dr. Perry noted after administering BOTOX injections for years, the worst thing he has ever seen is bruising.
As mentioned above, small doses of botulinum toxin are considered very safe. Only 36 cases of adverse effects associated with the cosmetic use of BOTOX were reported to the FDA between 1989 and 2003.
If you want BOTOX but still have reservations, reach out to a doctor who provides BOTOX and express your concerns. Some practitioners will even allow you to reach out to them through HIPAA compliant texting or telemedicine, so you won’t have to go into the office to address some of your initial fears.
Don’t let fear be a factor keeping you away from the smooth skin you crave.
Some argue that BOTOX is expensive, but here are the facts:
People pay hundreds for various skin creams and supplements, amongst dozens of other ways to look and feel young. BOTOX is the most effective, and therefore the best investment.
BOTOX isn’t just for wrinkles. Since it’s FDA-approval for cosmetic uses, it’s continually been studied for medical uses and doctors continue to push for alternative FDA-approvals for non-cosmetic treatments. It can improve the following medical problems:
BOTOX can weaken troublesome muscles, block the release of pain transmission chemicals, and block overactive nerve signals.
Jenna Mullins, an editor of E! News, suffered from migraines from her early 20s. Jenna tried everything: boosting her exercise program, revolutionizing her eating habits, and trying various prescription pills.
Jenna tried medical marijuana, natural remedies, physical therapy, and massage. No matter what she did, migraines continued to rule her life.
Finally, one of her doctors recommended BOTOX. Jenna jumped at the potential solution to her constant pain. She got 31 injections in her forehead, head, back, shoulders and neck.
Jenna reported that she did not experience any aesthetic changes or limitations to her expressions at all. In the two weeks after her BOTOX, she had only a single migraine, which was a huge improvement. Many patients find that BOTOX alleviates migraine pain better than any other treatment on the market.
Patients living with chronic pain need more safe and non-addictive pain management options. BOTOX is an excellent alternative therapy method.
BOTOX can decrease pain associated with migraine, fibromyalgia, strokes, and multiple sclerosis. BOTOX injections can also be used to improve pain-inducing conditions like:
The toxin in BOTOX blocks certain nerve singles that control muscle activity. BOTOX limits muscle contractions that are otherwise out of control. By relaxing muscles that are frequently contracted, pain decreases significantly.
Because BOTOX injections are injected directly into the site of pain, patients can avoid a lot of the negative side effects that often come with pain management – for example, fatigue and addiction that may come with oral pain medications.
BOTOX is the go-to injectable cosmetic treatment. You probably know that it reliably keeps wrinkles and expression lines at bay, but did you know BOTOX has more cosmetic uses than just easing facial wrinkles?
BOTOX can slim a square-looking jaw. For many people, jaw clenching strengthens the muscles, and those muscles translate to a jaw that has an angled, square appearance. Patients who would like a softer and more feminine jawline can use BOTOX to relax those muscles.
It can also reduce sagging jowls. BOTOX can pull back the excess sagging skin that forms jowls, therefore tightening the appearance of the chin, jaw and neck and creating a stronger jawline. A BOTOX treatment for a jaw reduction lasts for up to 6 months, and will began to last longer with more treatment sessions.
The neurotoxin can even minimize a cobbled chin. A cobbled chin is a nickname for any bumpiness or uneven skin texture that appears on the chin when it is flexed. Cobbled chins become more apparent with age, but a few drops of BOTOX can soften all of the bumps. It clears up divots and smooths the chin for a flawless look.
BOTOX can treat wrinkles on the neck. BOTOX providers can inject the toxin into the neck in order to freeze the neck muscles and reduce wrinkles and fine lines. If you have a little bit of “tech neck,” try some BOTOX on for size before you resort to an expensive neck lift or relatively painful Ultherapy treatment.
BOTOX has even more cosmetic, medical, and pain management benefits than we’ve listed. A lunchtime BOTOX procedure can result in greater confidence, less pain, and better health.
Most patients who receive BOTOX are women. That being said, everybody is using BOTOX.
The effects of aging have an impact on men and women. Hormonal fluctuations and dips in collagen happen to both sexes, and cause changes in the skin over time.
The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) reported that half a million men got injections of neuromodulators for cosmetic reasons in 2016. That is 330% more than the men who received them in 2000.
Dr. Leong of Sistine Facial Plastic Surgery states:
“Male patients were once an anomaly, but we’re now regularly seeing men at each of our locations. Guys today are more worried than ever about aging and their appearance. It’s become more acceptable for them to acknowledge it, and most importantly, DO SOMETHING about it. BOTOX for men has surged these past few years because of this.”
Here are some reasons why men might be becoming more interested in BOTOX injections:
Of course, there is no one-size-fits all BOTOX treatment. Everybody is unique, and even people with similar faces may want to see different results.
Here are a few ways to produce more masculine or feminine looks with BOTOX.
Masculine
Feminine
Straighter eyebrow that sits lower on the brow
Elevated eyebrow with a distinguished arch
Crow’s feet treatment
Glabellar line treatment
In the case of a shaved head or high hairline, BOTOX may need to be extended up the scalp for a more natural result
A lower hairline and less BOTOX produce a more feminine look
Subtler transformation – fewer areas treated or less BOTOX given relative to size
A near-flawless, picture-perfect look
If you want to be certain to get the right degree of masculinity vs. femininity, choose an experienced BOTOX administrator who understands the artistic subtleties of the injection technique.
Many men receive BOTOX to mitigate health conditions like neck spasms, lazy eye, and excessive sweating; that being said, the #1 reason why men are getting BOTOX injections is to enhance their appearance.
Here are the most common places men are getting injected to reduce lines:
Men and women can ask local providers about their cosmetic specialties through an in-person appointment, telehealth, or even HIPAA texting (if your provider offers it).
Minimally invasive surgeries are generally accepted as safer than traditional surgery, AKA open surgery. Why?
In a traditional surgery, a large cut is made. That is not the case with less invasive procedures. According to Healthline, “minimally invasive surgery allows your surgeon to use techniques that limit the size and number of cuts, or incisions, that they need to make.”
When it comes to cosmetic surgery, the definition of an invasive procedure goes a little further. An invasive procedure in cosmetic surgery would be any kind that breaks the skin, even when a small incision is made. This includes many plastic surgeries, including:
What is considered a noninvasive or minimally invasive cosmetic procedure? Any procedure that offers patient benefits like minimal downtime, zero scarring, less healing, lower costs, and low complication risks.
Minimally invasive cosmetic procedures include:
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons states that the number of invasive cosmetic procedures dropped 6% from 2000 to 2016. During the same time period, noninvasive and minimally invasive procedures increased by 180%.
It’s simple enough: If you can get the results you want without the hardships of traditional surgery, why would you ever choose the latter?
When you undergo a procedure like a facelift, a major incision is made on your face or body. Plastic surgeons know what they’re doing, of course – they go above and beyond to try to hide scars as much as possible (for example, along the hairline).
However, no scar is always better than any scar – even a hidden one.
An invasive procedure means a long recovery time during which you’re laden with blood and bandages. Recoveries from traditional surgeries take weeks. In a procedure like a facelift, bruises and swelling on your face can last up to a year.
Minimally invasive procedures like BOTOX, on the other hand, can be accomplished in ten minutes, with NO downtime and negligible recovery afterwards.
Some argue that BOTOX is not completely painless, but it truly is painless compared to traditional surgery. Even though you may not feel pain during surgery if your doctor uses general anesthesia, the pain of recovery will certainly be worse than the discomfort of a quick BOTOX prick.
Some call BOTOX noninvasive since no incisions are made. Others call BOTOX minimally invasive, since multiple injections in the face still sounds a little bit invasive.
All in all, the entire BOTOX procedure takes approximately 10 minutes. It doesn’t involve any cutting, stitching, or general anesthesia, and if you’re worried about discomfort, you can ask your doctor for a topical anesthetic.
Other minimally invasive cosmetic procedures include microneedling, chemical peels, and fillers.
One of the top searches when it comes to BOTOX is: “do BOTOX needles hurt or not?”
Here’s the bad news. Like any needle injection, BOTOX may cause a little bit of discomfort. Every shot or immunization is different based on a wide variety of factors – injection technique, patient pain tolerance, location of injection, etc.
No matter what, rest assured that your discomfort will be very short-lived. If you are concerned, you can numb the area beforehand with a topical anesthetic cream or cold pack.
Now, let’s get into the good news.
The size of the needle has a lot to do with the pain you experience. One of the reasons why BOTOX is not painful is because the needles are very small.
The size of a BOTOX needle is about a 30 gauge, which is roughly the same size as diabetics use for their daily insulin shots.
Many doctors and medical spas offer anesthetic creams and cooling gels. Use the cream or gel to numb the area before BOTOX, or your professional can apply it.
Some patients report a stinging sensation, but the BOTOX toxin is not painful itself. Side effects are minor and practically painless relative to other plastic surgery recoveries.
Compared to any other cosmetic procedure on the market, BOTOX delivers the best results in exchange for the least discomfort.
Here’s how to take your look to the next level with BOTOX Cosmetic:
It’s almost unfair how easy it is to get that glowing, youthful, confident look.
Why is BOTOX so convenient? Because you can stop wasting so much time and money on experimenting with endless creams! You’ll get real results within days.
You can also prevent the need for more intensive surgeries and treatments in the future, which would be far from convenient.
You won’t have to take weeks or even days off from work to get your BOTOX and fully recover. In fact, there’s no need to take off work to get your injections. Get them before work, during lunch, or after work without missing a beat.
BOTOX is one of the most accessible cosmetic procedures in existence. If you want it, you’re going to be able to find a high-level expert without difficulty. Here’s why.
Along with the surging popularity of BOTOX, there has been a wave of medical practitioners learning how to become a BOTOX injector.
Plastic surgeons, dermatologists, ophthalmologists, and otolaryngologists are a natural fit for BOTOX training. These doctors have a comprehensive understanding of the anatomy of the facial muscles. Not only can they use BOTOX for cosmetic reasons, but they can use it to alleviate various medical conditions as well.
However, it’s not just these specific doctors who are providing BOTOX. Dr. Ngozi Nwankpa-Keshinro, OBGYN in Brooklyn, has recently taken up cosmetic medicine. She is one of the owners of a medical spa, where she administers BOTOX and Restylane injections.
All kinds of doctors find that the cosmetic field can be rewarding due to high patient satisfaction and boosted income levels. Cosmetic medicine is often lower-stress than other disciplines. It is relaxing and satisfying, and its popularity is driving more medical experts to learn how to become a BOTOX injector every year.
Doctors aren’t the only one who can provide BOTOX, so BOTOX is becoming even more accessible. Here are some of the individuals that might be certified to provide BOTOX in your area:
The ability of an individual to administer BOTOX depends on state laws. In some states, only doctors are legally permitted to administer BOTOX. Be sure to do your own research before getting BOTOX. Look for someone who:
Nicci Levy, founder of Alchemy 43 in NYC, dreams that her med spa will become the “Drybar of BOTOX.” She currently has four locations with more to come.
BOTOX was once only done behind closed doors in plastic surgery clinics, but it is now being performed in Instagrammable storefronts, visible to anyone who happens to pass by.
At Alchemy 43, clients can book a last-minute appointment online, or just walk in and browse the menu of micro-treatments. Nicci normalizes aesthetic procedures by making them sound non-medical, with names like “Hello Bright Eyes.” Other similar spas offer services like “Instaready Cheeks” or “Goodbye Gummy Smile.”
The store stands apart from others with pink walls, neon signs, velvet seating and plenty of other alluring touches. There are places to pose and take photos, as well as tea bars serving anti-inflammatory teas.
Although actual doctors and staff care for the patients, they make patients feel that they are at a casual event rather than a medical office.
More than half of Alchemy 43’s client base is under 35, demonstrating that the more accessible BOTOX becomes, the more people will receive treatment – particularly the younger generation.
Dr. John Fezza, a cosmetic facial surgeon at the Center for Sight, says that he sees 30-40 BOTOX patients in a typical work week. He estimates that 15% of his BOTOX patients are under 30.
The reason why more Millennials are using BOTOX is because of their belief in preventive BOTOX.
BOTOX prevents wrinkles from forming. Many physicians recommend using BOTOX preventively instead of down the road. Deeply-set forehead, bunny lines and other wrinkles can be difficult or impossible to remove. The patient is better off preventing line formation in the first place.
One study followed twin sisters over a period of 13 years. One twin received BOTOX 2-3 times each year. The other sister only received BOTOX twice over the course of 13 years.
The regularly treated twin showed less noticeable facial lines and crow’s feet, and had overall smoother and more youthful-looking skin. The study emphasizes that preventive BOTOX does make a difference over the years.
Some dermatologists and other doctors recommend preventive BOTOX, because it’s easier to prevent progression from dynamic wrinkles to static wrinkles than to try to erase static lines.
Why preventive BOTOX?
The clinical effects of BOTOX appear 1-4 days after injection, and maximum results appear after 1-4 weeks. The results will last anywhere between 3-6 months.
The duration of BOTOX varies from person to person based on muscle arrangements and lifestyle habits.
Some patients feel that the lifespan of a BOTOX treatment is ideal. What are the benefits of a 4–6-month treatment life?
You can set up regular BOTOX treatments with your doctor, or you can call when you feel you need another treatment. Even individuals who see their professional regularly for BOTOX will only need to go in 2-3 times each year.
Any cosmetic procedure is life-changing. What if something goes wrong? What if your results aren’t what you imagined?
In the case of a face lift, breast augmentation, or any other traditional plastic surgery, this is a huge problem – and it happens way too often. If you’re unhappy with your results, your options are limited. You can choose to live with the unfavorable result, or go back under the knife. Receiving repeat surgeries is undesirable for plenty of reasons.
With BOTOX, however, the worst-case scenario is that you dislike your treatment and must wait for it to fade. Oftentimes, your professional can touch up your BOTOX with a couple more injections quite easily. If starting over is the best way out, rest assured that you’ll look more like yourself after just 3 months.
The more BOTOX treatments you receive, the longer the results will last. The muscles will not recover fully after repeat treatments. When the muscles begin to experience atrophy, they will contract less frequently and form fewer wrinkles.
If you feel your first BOTOX treatment did not last as long as you would like, don’t worry. Your muscles are strong and they recovered quickly. Even a second treatment (and all treatments thereafter) will yield longer-lasting results.
Here’s how you can make your BOTOX results last as long as possible.
Statistics show that over 95% of American patients are satisfied with the outcome of their BOTOX treatments in recent years. Research also shows that patient satisfaction rate increases over time.
In one study, the Carruthers (the founders of BOTOX) reviewed records from 50 patients with a history of at least 10 treatment sessions with BOTOX cosmetic. More than 9/10 patients were women, and patients were an average of 43 years old.
Overall, long-term treatment with BOTOX facial procedures is perfectly safe and well-tolerated. Just as importantly, patients were happy with their results, and found the treatment more effective with longer-term treatments, ranking themselves as looking younger relative to their true age with more treatments.
An article in December 2008 in the Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, a review of 23 published clinical BOTOX trials were analyzed. The researchers concluded:
Another study showed a comparison of BOTOX vs. face creams that are intended to ease wrinkles and tighten skin.
The result? At 3 months post-injection, 80% of BOTOX patients were satisfied. NONE of the topical cream patients were satisfied with their results after 3 months’ use.
Results of BOTOX compound over time, therefore lasting longer and giving patients better results with more treatments.
Many young patients are now seeking BOTOX to maximize their results. They will never have to deal deep wrinkles, since they are maintaining their youthful visages. The younger generation knows that by starting younger and treating regularly, they are going to get the best results from their BOTOX treatments.
Patients who have repeated BOTOX over time may not require as many treatments, whether it’s a crow’s feet treatment, a jowl treatment, or anything else.
Why?
During the first treatment, patient muscles recover 100% after 3-6 months. However, after multiple BOTOX sessions, the same patient’s muscles only come back 95-96%. Recovery continues to decline over time, so results last longer and longer.
Not everyone needs a tummy tuck. Only a small percentage feel the need for implants. Some people don’t prefer the look of fillers.
Everybody gets wrinkles. Everybody needs BOTOX.
Most cosmetic procedures have a lot to do with the individual’s preference. BOTOX is unlike any other procedure because everybody ages.
You might argue that preference still plays a factor – some people might like the appearance of aging, while others don’t. BOTOX can still be applied to anyone, because everyone gets fine lines and wrinkles over the years.
Do you live somewhere sunny where you squint often? Frequent squinting forces you to use the muscles around your eyes, forming crow’s feet and other fine lines.
Are you an expressive person when you talk? You might notice those horizontal lines on your forehead when you look in the mirror.
Even the way you sleep – for example, on the side of your face – may be creating wrinkles!
BOTOX limits the skin from contracting, therefore minimizing wrinkles and ensuring smooth and youthful skin.
Maybe you know someone who would never get BOTOX Cosmetic, but the fact that BOTOX is for everyone still stands, because there are countless uses for BOTOX – medical, pain management, even depression alleviation. BOTOX is one of the most widely applicable, if not the most widely applicable, cosmetic crossover treatment on the market.
You can tweak your BOTOX treatment until it is perfectly suited to your needs.
One individual who has been getting BOTOX since age 30 shares her story:
“Five years later, I’m still alive and telling the tale. Sadly, I haven’t stuck to my once-a-year plan, but I’m pretty close! I usually get BOTOX every 8 months and stick to minimal units {8-10}. I am very careful, telling the doctors that I want to keep the integrity of my face. I also don’t want to mess with fillers or anything else outside of BOTOX.”
Your doctor will make suggestions based on your desired outcome, but you get the final say. If you prefer to use minimal BOTOX, if you want it to be almost undetectable, you can do that. If you want a bolder look, you got it.
Anything is possible with BOTOX because you can adjust how much and where the BOTOX is administered.
Not only is it perfectly safe to combine BOTOX with other cosmetic treatments, but various combinations can synergize for superior results.
There is a wide range of treatments that work well with BOTOX, but your doctor may recommend avoiding some BOTOX combos.
Here are the most popular combinations that produce the best outcomes.
JUVEDERM: Flawless faces and big lips are two of the biggest aesthetic trends right now. Why not get them both at the same time?
Juvederm is used to give extra volume to the lips. It can also smooth out fine lines and wrinkles in the cheeks and smile lines.
Tackle static and dynamic wrinkles: BOTOX and fillers complement one another because they treat different types of wrinkles. While BOTOX relaxes dynamic wrinkles, dermal fillers help smooth out those static wrinkles, which are visible even when the face is at rest. If you want to take significant time off the clock, a combination of dermal fillers and BOTOX is your best bet.
Prolong the results of your BOTOX treatment: Using BOTOX and fillers together can actually prolong the results of your BOTOX treatment. That is because the hyaluronic acid in fillers breaks down quickly in places where there is a lot of muscle movement. When BOTOX relaxes muscle movement, the fillers last longer.
KYBELLA: This filler is used to reduce fat underneath the chin and can be used alongside BOTOX. Double chins and deep wrinkles are common insecurities. Both issues can be improved instantly.
BOTOX is also used to tighten the jowls and improve the jawline. When combined with Kybella, you’re going to achieve the sharpest jawline possible.
RADIESSE, SCULPTRA, or RESTYLANE: These other dermal fillers can be used to remove wrinkles and facial scars. These can be used in the same treatment areas as BOTOX, but the treatments work differently, so they can be used together for an amplified effect.
COOLSCULPTING: This noninvasive cosmetic treatment reduces fat through a “freezing” process called cryolipolysis. It can be used on the stomach, upper arms and neck, and is perfectly safe to use at the same time as BOTOX.
A little CoolSculpting plus a little BOTOX is a first-rate way to feel young and sexy again. BOTOX can also be used to reduce fat in the jaw area, so CoolSculpting and BOTOX in the neck and jowl are often used in tandem.
CHEMICAL PEELS & MICRODERMABRASION: These noninvasive facial procedures are often used with BOTOX for an allover glowing look. Lighter chemical peels can often be used the same day as BOTOX administration, so you can get it all done at once. The chemical peel or microdermabrasion addresses skin pigment and texture, giving you fresh skin, and BOTOX will improve those dynamic lines for a flawless finish.
LASER TREATMENTS: Laser therapy can be carried out in the same area of BOTOX in order to treat redness and pigmentation. There is a small possibility of unwanted side effects when combining laser treatments and BOTOX, but the two treatments are generally safe to use together.
If you have BOTOX first, wait one week for the skin to heal. If you get a laser treatment like Fraxel first, you may be able to do BOTOX injections immediately afterwards. The results will be well-toned, even and lineless skin.
MESOTHERAPY: Mesotherapy be used alongside BOTOX and fillers. Aesthetic mesotherapy involves intra-dermal injections of a moisturizing, nutrient-dense solution that improves the tone and brightness of the skin, and helps smooth out wrinkles.
Filler injections also fill wrinkles and folds, giving the face new volume. Finally, BOTOX comes in and reduces muscle contractions to smooth out dynamic expression lines. The whole therapy is noninvasive but produces exceptional anti-aging results for high patient satisfaction.
Recent studies indicate that BOTOX may help with social anxiety and depression as well.
Facial expressions are directly related to mood. Why?
When you feel various emotions, like fear, anger, or sadness, your brain sends signals throughout the body that cause muscle tension. That tension causes frowning and other facial expressions that create fine lines on the face.
Your brain begins to make associations. When you frown, your body registers a negative emotion.
After a BOTOX procedure, it may be more difficult to feel negative emotions. You are not able to frown or make facial contractions, so your brain doesn’t send those extra signals that register as negative emotions.
People who have had BOTOX injections also like the way they look. Generally, when someone likes what they see in the mirror, they are less socially anxious and depressed. Not only that, but because an individual does not look tired, angry or upset in the mirror, the brain comprehends happiness.
Medical benefits of BOTOX can also improve mood. When a patient doesn’t have to deal with as much headache, jaw or back pain, they have an easier lifestyle. They feel more positive and social.
Patients who are embarrassed about an aged or tired appearance, concerned about a potential migraine, or ashamed of excessive sweating may experience social anxiety and isolation. Countless depression-related problems can be mitigated with BOTOX – giving individuals the opportunity to socialize more and feel better about themselves, therefore elevating moods and eliminating depression and anxiety.
In a study featured on CNN
There is a facial feedback loop.
Other research suggests that a fraction of the BOTOX solution may get into the central nervous center, including those structures that are involved in regulating mood and emotions. It may be physically affecting various locations in the brain that are connected to depression.
Beyond potential structural implications, muscle tension in the body is a common symptom of depression. When someone feels upset, stressed or depressed, they tend to contract muscles in their bodies and faces.
Progressive muscle relaxation is used in psychiatry, meaning teaching a patient to contract and relax each muscle group in order to improve mood. It makes sense that the way BOTOX relaxes muscles may also contribute to better moods.
In another study, Professor Tillman Kruger and colleague M. Axel Wollmer, MD from the Asklepios Clinic North Ochsenzoll in Hamburg, Germany studied BOTOX as a treatment for major depression.
Here were the conclusions:
With rising numbers of treatment-resistant depression in today’s society, finding new and effective depression treatments is vital.
Of course, there are potential side effects to BOTOX, so more knowledge is needed before determining whether or not BOTOX can be safely prescribed for mental wellness. More research will be done on BOTOX and depression going forward to uncover more specific links.
If you had preconceptions about BOTOX, we hope this article was helpful.
BOTOX isn’t just for women. It’s not just for frown lines. It does not have to look unnatural.
BOTOX is overwhelmingly the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedure in the United States, and there are dozens of reasons why it will continue to be so popular.
BOTOX brings more to the table than any other cosmetic treatment. It has something for everyone – medical or cosmetic, young or old, male or female. It is accessible, affordable, and just keeps growing in popularity, rendering it the King of Aesthetics – and securing its title for years to come.
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