Botox®, a type of neuromodulator, is a very common, very popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment. The cosmetic form of Botox® is a purified version of botulinum that is approved for use by the FDA. It is a liquid treatment that is designed to reduce, and even eliminate, the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving you a younger-looking appearance.
The muscles that cause wrinkles and fine lines are relaxed when Botox® is injected. It blocks the nerve signals that tell them to contract. The muscles and nerves are not damaged with Botox®, they just no longer have the “green light” to contract. This results in more relaxed muscles, which makes wrinkles appear lighter and the skin softer.
A few days after the injection, the affected facial muscles start to relax. The wrinkles will be less visible as a full 7 days pass. It is encouraged to return for quarterly treatments (every 3-4 months) to maintain the preventative benefits of Botox long term. When the facial muscles start to contract again, wrinkles and fine lines will begin to come back. It is normal for the muscles to gain movement again but getting regular treatments may make the effects last longer.
At Minnie Street Aesthetics, we suggest that our clients avoid any blood-thinning medications and supplements for 48 hours prior to their treatment in order to decrease the likelihood of bruising UNLESS they are prescribed by your doctor. Please continue to take all medications as prescribed. Avoiding any alcoholic beverages for 48 hours prior to your appointment may also help to decrease bruising.
Avoid the following 48 hours before treatment:
• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
• Naproxen (Aleve)
• Garlic
• Alcohol
• Ginko Biloba
• St John’s Wort
• Omega Fish Oil Supplements
• Chinese Medicine
• Vitamin E
• Tretinoin (Retin-A) Treatments
• Glycolic Acid Treatments
• Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) Treatments
We ask that our patients actively contract and use the muscles treated for an hour post-injection and stay in an upright position for 6 hours post-injection. Avoid applying makeup for 12 hours after treatment and minimize strenuous exercise and exposure to extensive sun or heat within the first 24 hours following treatment
Results can be seen as early as 3 days post-treatment, but full results can take up to 2 full weeks. A typical neuromodulator treatment will last up to 4 months. Results for hyperhidrosis last longer, from 6 – 14 months.
The number of units of Botox® used during treatments will not be the same for everyone. How much you need will be customized based on several factors including gender, the strength of your facial muscles, your metabolism, aesthetic goals, wrinkle severity, and history of neuromodulator use.
