The Dos and Don’ts Of BOTOX®: A Beginner’s Guide

So, you’re thinking about getting Botox. You’ve heard the famous treatment from your mom, aunts, doctors, and even celebrities, but you’re not exactly sure of what it is or if it’s right for you. You’ve come to the right place.

What Is BOTOX®? The Original FDA Approved Wrinkle Diminisher

Botox is a neurotoxin that is injected into the dermis to treat fine lines and wrinkles. “It’s the first and only treatment FDA-approved to temporarily make moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines look better in adults.”

Botox works by weakening or paralyzing certain muscles or by blocking certain nerves. Once it relaxes the overlying skin, wrinkles are less likely to form when smiling, laughing, or even expressing with your eyebrows.

Who Is Eligible?

Generally speaking, anyone can get Botox, as long as they are above the age of 18. Most experts agree that patients in their mid to late 20s and early 30s are at a good age for preventative Botox treatment.

The Dos

Factors and considerations patients of Botox should be aware of and need to follow to have a successful and safe treatment.

1. Choose An Established and Reliable Practice

It is extremely important to thoroughly research the medical spa or practice that you will receive your Botox treatment from. Here at Garcia Aesthetics, we have highly trained aestheticians and certified Nurse Practitioners to administer your treatment. Our Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner has performed more than 14,000 BOTOX injections.

2. Be Honest and Thorough with Your Injector

When getting your consultation, it is essential to be honest with your injector and tell them all of your medical history. This will help them determine if it is safe for you to receive a Botox treatment. Provide them with information on any allergies, medicines, supplements, and medical surgeries or treatments.

3. Come Prepared and Stay Still During Treatment

Botox is not an extremely painful treatment but can cause discomfort for some. The treatment entails a very small needle that is injected into the skin and may cause mild to medium pain. This is temporary but can be alarming to some people. Make sure to stay extremely still when your injector is performing the treatment to ensure the Botox reaches the desired areas and no mistakes are made. This is why going to a professional injector matters.

4. Avoid Blood Thinners Two Weeks Before Treatment

Want to avoid bruising? It is recommended to stay away from blood thinners before getting Botox. Listed are common blood thinners:

• Alcohol
• Any aspirin-containing over-the-counter product
• NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen, naproxen, and ranitidine
• Herbal supplements like garlic, ginseng, fish oil, and turmeric
• High potency vitamin E

5. Follow Aftercare

After receiving Botox, there are various things patients can do to guarantee the best results. An easy and often overlooked one is to stay upright for at least two hours after the treatment. This helps ensure that no additional pressure is exerted in the area which can help avoid increased blood flow. It is also recommended to move the injected areas during the first hour following the treatment. You can do this by making facial expressions, ranging from raising eyebrows to frowning. Finally, it is highly advised that you avoid extensive and rigorous exercise that causes sweating for at least 48 hours after the procedure. This is because heat also increases the blood flow to the face, which reduces the longevity of the procedure.

The Don’ts

1. Don’t Get Botox If Pregnant or Breastfeeding

Although there is no direct evidence linking any harm or danger when Botox is administered to pregnant or breastfeeding women, there haven’t been any clinical tests that show this treatment to completely harmless to these patients. There is no current way to determine whether the process is safe in these patients and situations, so it is best to avoid this kind of treatment when pregnant or breastfeeding.

2. Don’t Sunbathe

Botox patients should not expose their skin to extreme heat. While you might be eager to enjoy those sun rays, your skin is not. Right after a Botox procedure, the skin becomes very sensitive and can bruise easily. By exposing it to the sun, the risk of dilating the blood vessels, and hence causing redness, increases. It is recommended to avoid the sun while your skin is still healing.

3. Don’t Get Any Facial Procedures or Facials After Treatment

Even mildly invasive procedures such as facials, chemical peels, microneedling, and dermaplaning can negatively affect your Botox treatment. It is recommended to wait at least one week after receiving treatment.

4. Don’t Rush Back to Get More

Botox takes time to settle in and show desired results. Results develop over time and change depending on each individual. Many patients think that one session will give them their desired look, but this may not happen. It is best to be patient and see how your Botox settles in. Keep in mind, it’s easier to add than it is to take away, which is why it is generally recommended that a conservative approach be taken. Start small and then you and your injector can discuss a second treatment.

Botox is a well-known and highly established treatment that is safe and effective for diminishing lines and wrinkles. If you’re interested in learning more or scheduling a consultation, visit our website or call one of our Florida locations. We look forward to seeing you soon!