Are you looking for a way to make your existing facial lines and wrinkles less noticeable? Perhaps you’re trying to prevent lines from forming in the first place? Regardless of what you’re going for, Botox can make a world of difference in your complexion.
At Arijai Aesthetics, we know there’s plenty of misinformation, rumors, and off-putting accounts about Botox injections that can give the treatment a bit of a bad rap. Don’t let the hearsay mislead you. Below, we’re sharing what you need to know about Botox, so you can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you.
Botox Is Not a Filler
A lot of people confuse Botox and dermal fillers because they’re both cosmetic injectables. Let’s set the record straight: They’re not the same thing.
Botox’s active ingredient is a very diluted neurotoxin that’s derived from a specific strain of the botulinum toxin. Dermal fillers, on the other hand, are gel-like substances that typically feature hyaluronic acid as their active ingredient.
Though they’re different, both injectables are excellent treatments for maintaining a youthful complexion. In fact, combination treatment with Botox and dermal fillers can potentially erase years of aging from your face.
Botox Does Not Freeze Your Muscles
This is another widespread misconception about Botox injections. While it might seem like Botox “freezes” the muscles in each treatment area, that’s not what’s really happening.
Rather, the active ingredient in Botox prevents nerve synapses from releasing the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. Since acetylcholine is responsible for muscle contraction, preventing its release also prevents the muscles in the treatment area from flexing. The muscles aren’t frozen, they’re essentially just resting.
Botox Is Cleared By the FDA as Safe for Cosmetic Use
Yes, botox contains a neurotoxin, but that doesn’t mean it’s unsafe. Botox injections were first cleared by the FDA as safe in 1989, and they’ve been widely used ever since. As one of the safest and most widely studied medications in the world, Botox also enjoys the top spot as the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment around the globe. In 2019, over six million Botox injections were administered worldwide.
Botox Injections Will Not Give You a Frozen Expression
You’ve probably seen a few Botox procedures gone bad, but in the hands of a properly trained cosmetic injector, Botox will not freeze your face. When the appropriate amount of Botox is injected beneath your skin in the proper locations, you’ll still be able to make your normal facial expressions.
Botox & Xeomin Work Best for Dynamic Wrinkles
There are two types of wrinkles: static and dynamic. Static wrinkles develop due to a loss of the skin’s structural proteins while dynamic wrinkles develop as a result of repeated facial expressions.
Over time, the muscles that create those facial expressions can begin to maintain a semi-contracted state, which is what creates the appearance of permanent lines and wrinkles. Both Botox and Xeomin (a purer form of Botox) are designed to work best for dynamic wrinkles since both injectables prevent muscles from contracting. They can improve the appearance of static wrinkles, too, but dermal fillers are better suited to that job.
Botox Is an Excellent Treatment for Preventing Lines and Wrinkles
Botox isn’t just for minimizing the appearance of existing lines and wrinkles; it can also be used as a preventative treatment! Most people who are looking to prevent the appearance of aging start getting Botox in the mid-20s or early 30s.
The Risk of Side Effects From Botox or Xeomin Is Very Low
While the word, neurotoxin might sound somewhat intimidating, the risk of adverse effects from Botox or Xeomin injections is very low. There’s no downtime after the procedure, and the most commonly reported side effect is discomfort or temporary bruising at the injection site. Your provider will discuss potential side effects with you during your consultation, so you know exactly what to expect.
Ready to Find Out If Botox Is Right for You? Get a Free Cosmetic Consultation Today
If you’ve been considering Botox or Xeomin injections, let our team at Arijai Aesthetics help you decide whether the treatment is right for you! We specialize in a wide variety of anti-aging skin care treatments, including Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, dermal fillers, microneedling, PRP, and much more. Whether you’re looking to reverse or prevent aging skin, our cosmetic dermatologists can develop a personalized treatment plan for your unique needs and concerns.
To get started, feel free to request a complimentary virtual consultation or call our Burnsville, MN office at 952-435-0605 today. We look forward to hearing from you!