Botox is one of the most popular and most effective anti-aging treatments out there, but it is also pretty daunting for first-timers. Trying something new can be intimidating (especially when needles are involved!), so let’s demystify the process and put your mind at ease. If this is your first time getting Botox, we’ll dive into everything you need to know so that you’re completely prepared for your appointment!
What Is Botox?
Let’s start with a bit of Botox 101. As you probably already know, Botox injections are used cosmetically to help smooth fine lines and wrinkles. This helps refresh the face and promote a more youthful complexion. Most commonly, Botox (which is the brand name for onabotulinumtoxinA) is injected around the side of the eyes, between the eyebrows, and/or on the forehead.
While you may already be familiar with the effects of Botox, you might not know exactly how it works. Simply put, the injections block specific chemical signals from the nerves that cause muscles to contract. Since the injected muscles are no longer able to contract (at least temporarily!), fine lines and wrinkles are able to soften.
What to Expect During Your First Botox Session?
Now that we’ve covered the basics, you probably have a few concerns you’d like to address before you get Botox for the first time (and understandably so!). In order to help you feel calm and confident going into your session, let’s answer some of the most common questions of first-time Botox patients.
How Should I Prepare for My First Botox Session?
Preparation for your first Botox session is simple! In the days leading up to your appointment, you’ll want to avoid ibuprofen, aspirin, or other blood-thinning medications. These types of medications can increase your risk of bruising at the site of injection. For the same reason, you should also stay away from alcohol for a few days before your session.
While it’s not essential, feel free to come in with a bare face. Your skin will be cleaned before the injections to minimize any risk of infection, so makeup in the area will be removed.
How Long Does a Botox Session Last?
Have you ever heard of Botox being referred to as the “lunchtime treatment”? There’s a good reason for it! Your Botox session will go by super quickly. Typically, treatment won’t take more than 20 minutes.
Does Botox Hurt?
Unsurprisingly, this is one of the most frequently asked questions! The good news is that the needles used for Botox are much smaller than needles that are used for many other medical purposes, such as for drawing blood. Since these needles are so small, the procedure is relatively painless and causes little discomfort. During the injection, you’ll feel what many describe as a slight sting or prick.
Ultimately, the anticipation can be worse than the actual injection! Take some calming breaths before and during your appointment, and know that you’ll be in and out in no time.
When Will I See Results?
You’re going to need a little bit of patience because you won’t see the final results immediately. Typically, you’ll start to notice a smoother complexion around three to seven days after your session. That said, the effects often don’t fully appear until two weeks post-injection!
Right after your session, you may notice small bumps at the injection sites, and you might feel a small amount of residual tingling. Don’t worry – this should calm down within an hour! You may also experience a bit of tenderness or redness in the area. These side effects are completely normal, and should disappear within a day.
How Long Does Botox Last?
As nice as it would be, the effects of Botox, unfortunately, don’t last forever. This is simply due to the fact that, over time, it is metabolized by the body. Exactly how long Botox lasts will differ from person to person, since it depends on an individual’s metabolism, lifestyle, and how many units were injected during their treatment. On average, treatment should last between three to five months.
What to Do After Your Botox Session?
Post-Botox care is pretty straightforward, and for the most part, you’ll be able to bounce back into your normal routine right after your appointment. In fact, the procedure is simple enough that you’ll be able to drive yourself home immediately after! With that in mind, there are a few things you should do to ensure you heal properly and have the best possible results.
First things first: no rubbing or putting pressure on the area for at least 24 hours! This means avoiding any intensive facial treatments (such as a chemical peel or facial), and taking a gentle approach as you do your skincare routine. Putting too much pressure on the area can increase the risk of bruising, and may also encourage the Botox to spread to a different part of the face. For the same reasons, you’ll also want to avoid lying down for four hours after getting Botox.
For the next 24 hours, you’ll want to lay low and avoid any strenuous activity. Working out (or otherwise increasing your heart rate) boosts your circulation, which can spread Botox to unwanted areas.
Similarly, you’re going to want to do your best to stay out of the sun for at least a few hours after your appointment, as the heat may lead to bruising. With that in mind, it’s best to also avoid hot showers, baths, and saunas.
Dealing with a bit of tenderness? You can (gently!) apply ice or a cold compress to help calm the area. If you’re using ice, make sure to wrap it in a towel to avoid applying it directly to the skin.
Feel Calm & Confident Your First Time Getting Botox!
Now that you’re equipped with this information, you’ll hopefully feel more at ease heading into your first appointment! As a final note, don’t be afraid to ask any additional questions you may have before, during, and after your session. All concerns you may have will be thoughtfully addressed to ensure you have the best and most stress-free experience with your very first Botox session.
Stay Beautiful,
Nurse Sheena
