When we think antiaging, Botox always comes up tops. Having been around for decades with a high safety record, many simply see it as a quick fix to erase lines and wrinkles effectively. But is it really that simple? We break it down for you on everything you need to know about Botox, the kind that no one will even know you had had them done.

What does Botox do?

Botox is short for botulinum toxin and is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum which is found in plants, soil, water and animal intestines. This chemical essentially causes muscle paralysis that could last for several months.

While it is true that Botox is a poisonous substance that affects the nervous system, when used in minute doses, ie on your face for wrinkles, it is deemed safe for use. Even in small doses, it still effects muscles paralysis, enough to erase the wrinkles and deep frown lines off your face.

Now, if you’re seriously thinking of getting Botox done, read on to find out what else you need to pay attention to before undergoing this procedure.

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#1 Choose the right clinic

While this is a common procedure, it’s still important for you to do your research to find the right clinic for you. For one, look for a certified aesthetics doctor, preferably with years of experience under his / her belt. Look for online reviews where possible.

Don’t be afraid to seek a consultation and ask for before and after pictures of the same procedure. It’s important that you feel comfortable with your practitioner – this is afterall your face that you’re entrusting him with! You should never be in any way feel pressured by the doctor to do anything you aren’t comfortable with.

#2 Make a plan with your doctor

Once you have decided on your doctor, you should make a Botox plan with him, depending on your aesthetic goals. Not limiting the plan to Botox, your doctor should be able to advise you on all your options to help you achieve your beauty outcome, as Botox isn’t the be all and end all of aesthetic treatments.

Plus your face is unique, so what may work for 1 person may not work in the same way for you.

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#3 Be conscious of your budget

Know your budget and let your wallet guide you when making your Botox plan. You should share your budget with your doctor so that everyone is on the same page when deciding on the treatment plan.

Botox is a temporary treatment with results lasting only four to six months. This too needs to be taken into consideration, especially if you see yourself repeating this treatment several times a year.

Is there a right age to start Botox?

Everyone’s face is different and changes differently with age. One rule of thumb is if the lines are starting to bother you, that’s probably the right time to start Botox.

When we are in our 30s, no doubt our skin looks duller and lacklustre due to the slower skin cell turnover and collagen production. This is also when lines appear more exaggerated compared to our 20s when our skin is chockful of collagen.

Are there any risks to Botox?

While Botox is generally considered a safe injectable, too much of it or when used in the wrong area, could lead to a “frozen” or expressionless face, asymmetry and even dropping. But these side effects will wear off over time as Botox is temporary.

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