Botox is perhaps the most popular and available anti-aging cosmetic drug around. This wrinkle smoother has been around since 2002, and I will be honest – I have been using it for almost as long! Although techniques have changed over the years, one thing remains the same, this anti-wrinkle agent works and works well. If you’ve never tried Botox, I’m going to give you the run-down on what it is, how to use it and the do’s and don’ts, particularly when it comes to exercise!
What is Botox?
Botox is an injectable form of the botulinum toxin type A. That’s right it’s a toxin. This toxin has a strong action – it works by binding to neurotransmitters that cause nerve impulses in the muscle, therefore blocking muscle contraction from happening and paralyzing the muscle. When a muscle can’t contract, a wrinkle can’t form. So a once harden wrinkly face can begin to look softer, younger and less bitchy!
Where Do You Put Botox?
Let’s get one thing straight; Botox is only used in the muscles. Botox is not filler. It can be used to soften wrinkles in the forehead, the crows feet around the eyes, that angry line that can happen between your eyebrows. It can be used to lift the eyebrows and even the tip of your nose! Botox can also be used for the lines around the nose – you know those cute bunny lines. Some people also use it in the frown lines, but a better fix for that is filler, but that’s for another day.
How Long Before You See Results?
Injections take no time at all, 15 to 20 minutes and you’ll be done. Since Botox is injected into the muscle, it doesn’t cause much pain. However, for those of you that don’t like any pain, a numbing cream applied 15 minutes prior to the injections, will take care of that. Once you’re done, you’ll need to wait 10 to 12 days before you see the full results. At that time, you might want to head back for a touch-up depending on how happy you are with the results.
Now for the Important Stuff…
Will Exercising After Botox Affect Results?
The answer is yes, exercise immediately after getting Botox can reduce the effectiveness of the Botox for a few reasons. First, exercise increases blood flow, which can diffuse the Botox away from the injection site, into other muscles you might not want affected. Additionally, increased blood pressure, can lead to bruising and swelling at the injection site. It’s also important to maintain your head position, up right for at least 4 hours post injection to avoid migration. For best results avoid exercise for 24 to 48 hours post injection!
What Else Can You Not Do After Botox?
- Lying or bending down for at least 4 hours
- Touching your face too much – don’t apply pressure on the skin for at least 4 hours
- Layoff the drinking – no alcohol for 24 hours, so don’t get your Botox close to a weekend!
- Avoid getting a facial or facial procedure for at least 10 to 12 days
- Avoid anything that thins the blood or increases blood pressure including caffeine or aspirin for at least 24 hours
- Don’t get your eyebrows done – like micro-blading until after those brows have lifted, at least 10 to 12 days
- Avoid excessive heat – hot shower, bath, sun lamps, tanning beds or saunas for at least 24 hours, or if you live in the heat, try to avoid overexposure to the sun
- Don’t, and I can’t stress this enough, don’t sleep on your face!
Signs of Things Gone Wrong!
Although not common, there are side effects that can happen. Minor ones include swelling of the area and bruising, feeling faint after injection. The minor side effects will go away in one to two days. If you experience eye dropping, this can be fixed with more Botox. Go back and see your practitioner for this simple fix. Major side effects can include the following:
- Swollen eyes
- Trouble breathing
- Increased pain and swelling
- Rash or hives
- Blistering
- Dizziness
- Muscle weakness, especially in an area that wasn’t injected
- Double vision
How Long Does Botox Last?
That all depends on your chemistry and how strong your muscles are. Some people metabolize it quicker than others. This might happen if you exercise frequently and have a good metabolism. If your muscles are super strong, it will also cause it to wear off faster. Most people need a top-up every 3 to 4 months, but some people can wait as long as 6-months before those pesky muscles start to experience movement again. Personally every 4 to 6-months and I need a top up.
When Should I Start Taking Botox?
The earlier you start, the better you can get those muscles under control. The more times a muscle contracts the deeper the wrinkle and the less results you’ll see. I started in my late 20’s and haven’t for once regretted the results. I also don’t over Botox. Less is more! Remember, we can’t get rid of the muscles in our face only neutralize them, so if you’re constantly knocking out the function of some muscles, it will cause other muscles in your face to overcompensate. Resulting in the use of more Botox later on!
Until Next Time,
Be Fierce & Rule The World!
Lauren Jacobsen
