Botox is one of the safest, easiest, and most effective med spa treatments available today. With just a short session, patients can reduce wrinkles, get relief from chronic headaches, or reduce excessive sweating. But just like with any other cosmetic treatment, there are a few things you should know before you get this treatment. To help you get educated (and get the best results from your treatment), here are the dos and don’ts of Botox.
Botox 101: What to Know Before Scheduling Botox
Make Sure You’re Getting the Real Thing
While many people think that Botox is a blanket name for a certain type of treatment, it’s actually a brand name for a specific brand of neurotoxin. This is important to note because there are many copycat brands out there that claim to do the same thing as Botox, but may not have the same exemplary safety record.
So, when selecting a place to get this treatment, make sure you’re getting the real thing. To check this, ask any doctor you may be considering if they use the authentic, trademarked Botox made by Allergan.
Research Your Doctor in Advance
When considering Botox, know that who you get it from is hugely important. First off, you should make sure that you only go to a licensed, accredited clinic. You should also take a look at some examples of the doctor’s work to see if you like their results. Most experienced doctors will have example photographs that are easy to find (like our before and afters), either on their website or on their social media (like on our Instagram).
If you’re looking into a doctor or spa and you can’t find any record of their licensing or any examples of their work, consider that a red flag. Remember that while it is a simple treatment, it should still be done by a licensed and experienced doctor for the safest and best results.
Botox 101: Preparing For Your Treatment
Don’t Take Painkillers Beforehand
It might seem like a good idea to take a painkiller (like ibuprofen or aspirin) before getting Botox, but this is something you shouldn’t do. Taking over the counter painkillers can actually increase the risk of bruising from a Botox treatment. While Botox is not a particularly painful treatment, if you’re concerned about pain, ask your doctor about other pain relief options. Things like numbing creams and icing can help reduce pain and discomfort during a Botox treatment, without putting you at risk for increased bruising.
Talk to Your Doctor About Any Questions You May Have
Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor as many questions as you may have during your consultation. This might seem obvious, but some people are nervous to ask a lot of questions, when they really don’t need to be. A good doctor will want to make sure you’re completely comfortable getting the treatment done, as well as educated about what the treatment will be like. So, ask away!
Botox 101: Aftercare
Don’t Exercise for 24 Hours After Getting Botox
This tip is an important one: remember that you shouldn’t engage in any strenuous activity in the 24 hours following your treatment, including exercising. While you can resume normal activities immediately after treatment, you don’t want to do anything that would really get your blood pumping. This is because increased blood circulation can actually move Botox from where it was placed. This can end up reducing the effectiveness of the treatment, or it can move Botox to an area you didn’t want treated. So, it’s best to skip the gym for a full 24 hours after your treatment to ensure optimal results.
Remember That Results Aren’t Immediate
While treatments are quick, the results take a little time to show up. Know that it can take up to two weeks to see the full results of a treatment, so don’t be alarmed if you don’t see results immediately.
Know the Maintenance Timeline
Botox is not a permanent treatment; it’s something that requires maintenance. Generally, upkeep treatments may be needed around every 3 to 4 months, but results will vary depending on each person’s unique body chemistry. Talk to your doctor about when you should come back in for touch ups, but know that you likely won’t need to for at least 3 months.
Are you considering trying this treatment? Contact the Z Center for Cosmetic Health today to make an appointment. Check out our before & after gallery of past treatments here. All Botox treatments are done by Dr. Zadeh himself, so you can be confident knowing your treatment will be performed by a licensed, experienced doctor with an expert eye.