Botox is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require anesthesia. It typically takes 20 minutes or less to get your injections.

Your provider will clean the area to be injected. They may ask you to make facial expressions to identify dynamic wrinkle areas and determine the appropriate dosage.

Be sure to tell your Botox injectors about any health conditions, allergies and medications you take (including natural supplements). Bruising is possible when the needle hits a blood vessel.

Preparing for Your Appointment

Your first Botox appointment will start by reviewing your goals of treatment, the areas you would like to address and a full health history. Then the injector will use a small needle to inject small amounts of Botox directly into the muscles responsible for dynamic lines and wrinkles. The injections should not feel painful. Ice may be used to numb the area if you are concerned about pain. The treatment typically lasts 20 minutes or less.

Cleanse your skin thoroughly with a non-abrasive, gentle cleanser prior to your appointment. Avoid rubbing the area as this can cause swelling. You can also take bruise-prevention supplements like arnica and bromelain 2-4 days before your session if you are prone to bruising.

Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol prior to your appointment as these can reduce blood flow and increase the chance of bruising. You should also avoid exercise and rubbing the area in the days before your appointment as this can spread the toxin and weaken the effects of your injections.

During Your Appointment

You’ll start with a consultation to determine if Botox is the right treatment for you. Your professional will ask you to smile, frown and raise your eyebrows to get a better understanding of how your face moves and to help pinpoint the areas where the injections should go. They may also take a full medical history and a list of any medications you’re taking, including herbal supplements.

Once they’ve determined that you are a good candidate for this non-invasive procedure, they will clean your skin and, if needed, numb the area with ice or a topical cream. Then, using a fine needle, they’ll inject small amounts of the neurotoxin in the targeted areas.

You’ll probably notice that the injection sites have little red or pink dots that look like mosquito bites, but these should fade in 20 minutes or less. You shouldn’t rub the area afterward or use any skincare products with alcohol or other strong ingredients.

Post-Appointment Care

Depending on your needs, Botox may be used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles around your nose or mouth. It can also help with migraines and teeth grinding, among other conditions. The neurotoxin, derived from bacteria Clostridium botulinum, works by paralyzing the muscles that cause these expression lines. Once the muscle is paralyzed, it cannot contract. The lines and creases will fade away, giving your face a smoother, refreshed appearance.

At your appointment, a professional will cleanse the area that will receive the injections. You will then recline in a comfortable position and the injector will begin the procedure. The injections will feel like a small pinch.

During your consultation, it is important to tell the specialist what your expectations are. The specialist will listen to your concerns and come up with a plan that meets your goals. You will also need to share your health history with the specialist to ensure the treatment is safe for you. For example, you may need to stop taking certain medications or supplements that can increase your risk of bleeding or bruising.

Results

Since gaining FDA-approval in 2002, Botox has become one of the most well-known cosmetic injectables available. While many people only use it to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, it can be used for other conditions, including migraines and clenching of the teeth.

The results from your injections will begin to develop over the course of several days. Once they are fully absorbed by your muscles, you will notice that the wrinkles have been smoothed away. These results typically last three to six months and can be maintained with routine touch-ups.

To extend the life of your results, try to avoid rubbing or massaging the areas that were treated. This also includes professional massages, as this can cause the toxin to disperse and lessen their effectiveness. Also, you should avoid taking medications like Aspirin or other blood thinners as these can increase the likelihood of bruising. You should also avoid herbal supplements such as fish oil, St. John’s wort and high doses of vitamin E for several days prior to your appointment.