Everything You Want to Know About Botox – National Botox Day
Unless you’ve been hiding under the world’s most soundproof rock for the last 40+ years, you’ve heard the name Botox® before. This reigning king of cosmetic injectables easily achieved household recognition for its age-defying effects and easy use.
But popularity breeds parody, and haters have a tendency to go on hating regardless of the facts. Simply put, what the average American doesn’t know about Botox can and does fill books.
In honor of the upcoming National Botox Day (November 15, 2023), we’re reviewing the storied rise of this fabled injectable while answering some of your frequently asked questions. Here’s everything you need to know about the world’s #1 neuromodulator.
National Botox Day 2023 – A Regeneris Medspa Guide for Boston, MA
At Regeneris Medspa & Cosmetic Surgery, we’ve lost count of the Botox injections we’ve performed on Bostonians of every stripe. Men and women at numerous stages of life enjoy lasting benefits, boosted confidence, and age-defying grace.
Dr. Ryan Welter understands that the general public has questions. We’ll answer a few of those questions here today. In the meantime, if you’re ready for your first or fiftieth Botox appointment, give us a call at (781) 412-1309 or contact us online.
Botox History & Frequently Asked Questions
Initially used to treat crossed eyes, Botox received initial FDA approval for that purpose back in 1989. But providers quickly noticed that Botox had other, more promising benefits.
After its cosmetic applications were uncovered, Botox received another FDA-approved use for treating fine lines and wrinkles in 2002. The rest is, well, history.
For more information about the beginnings, benefits, and uses of Botox, check out our Regeneris Medspa blog.
What is Botox?
Botox is a popular, FDA-approved neuromodulator derived from botulinum—a single-celled microorganism capable of producing toxin. In small enough doses, this toxin has numerous cosmetic and healthcare applications. By blocking certain signals to local muscle groups (among other uses), Botox can:
- Prevent fine lines & wrinkles
- Reduce chronic migraines
- Treat overactive bladders
- Treat eyelid spasms
- Reduce excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
- More
How Does Botox Work?
To understand how Botox works, we need to understand why fine lines and wrinkles happen.
As we age, our bodies produce less elastin and collagen—two structural proteins responsible for skin health, tightness, and tone. Photoaging (sun damage) and lifestyle choices (tobacco use, poor diet) can also sabotage our skin’s natural healing response.
Skin creases tend to form along our facial musculature—that is, wherever facial contractions occur most frequently. Botox lightly stuns these facial muscles, limiting the range of intense expressions that cause fine lines and wrinkles.
Patients are still expressive after Botox injections—they can smile, frown, glare, and grin just as they normally would. Botox only prevents the uppermost range of contractions that contribute to premature aging.
How Much is Botox?
The ultimate cost of a Botox injection depends on numerous factors. Provider expertise, provider location (city, state, county), dosage, application, and even the injection site can change the cost considerably.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Botox injections cost anywhere between $233 and $700 for an average of $466. Again, that’s an average, meaning that you may pay more or less depending on your circumstances and the provider’s expertise.
How Long Does Botox Take to Work?
Botox injections are famous for their speed and simplicity. Taking a mere 10 to 15 minutes, Botox appointments are equally swift at delivering results. Patients typically notice a softening of fine lines and wrinkles in the treatment area within three to seven days.
How Long Does Botox Last?
On average, Botox patients can expect to maintain results for three to four months. But ongoing research has demonstrated a link between regular Botox injections and improved outcomes.
Patients who receive Botox regularly experience a lasting effect in the facial muscles responsible for fine line and wrinkle development. Over time, these facial muscles start to under-respond on their own, further limiting the development of facial creases above and beyond what a single Botox injection can achieve.
In other words, the effects become more pronounced and last longer when patients stick to a Botox routine.
Is Botox Safe?
Yes, Botox injections are safe—especially when performed by a trained, responsible, and expert provider. Swelling and bruising are the most common side effects, but they resolve quickly after injection. So long as you follow the aftercare routine set for you by your provider, you can limit side effects and ensure the greatest results after each injection.
Can You Get Botox While Pregnant?
Although Botox is considered safe for otherwise healthy adult patients, it is not advised for pregnant women. Little research has been conducted on the effects of Botox during pregnancy. With an absence of data and so much at stake for expectant mothers, Botox is generally avoided during pregnancy.
How Can I Decide Between Botox and Dermal Fillers?
Botox is easily confused with another popular classification of cosmetic injectables—dermal fillers. While both treat fine lines and wrinkles, they do so in different ways.
Botox lightly stuns the facial muscles responsible for the development or worsening of facial creases. Dermal fillers, on the other hand, replace volume loss with synthetic hyaluronic acid fillers.
If you’re unhappy with your appearance when your face is at rest, dermal fillers are the way to go. They plump skin from underneath to naturally flatten and soften fine lines. If you’re unhappy with your appearance when you’re expressive—smiling, frowning, furrowing your brow—then Botox is more appropriate.
Schedule Your First or Fiftieth Botox Appointment in Boston, MA
The chemical formula for the world’s leading neuromodulator is mostly the same regardless of where you get it. But the skill level and safety of providers is not always equal. For the best and longest-lasting results, choose a trusted local provider with a history of safety and success.
Regeneris Medspa founder and CEO, Dr. Ryan Welter, obtained his doctorate in biochemistry and molecular biology from Oklahoma State University and his M.D. from the University of Oklahoma. He completed his residency at Brown University Medical School, where he previously served as a clinical associate professor.
For the best outcomes, choose Regeneris Medspa for your Botox appointment today. Join us in celebrating National Botox Day this November by calling us at (781) 412-1309 or contacting us online.
Why is Botox a Household Name? Find Out For Yourself at Regeneris!
In the ever-evolving landscape of aesthetics, some treatments just can’t keep up. Botox has withstood the test of time for three simple reasons: it works, it’s quick, and its results last for 4 months or longer. Find out for yourself why Botox is the reigning king of skin care and self-care by scheduling your appointment today. Call Regeneris Medspa at (781) 412-1309 or contact us online. Don’t forget to browse our latest special offers, too!