Once a taboo subject, cosmetic procedures such as Botox have quickly gained popularity among men and women eager to recapture the look of youth. Despite its popularity, there is still a lot of misunderstanding surrounding Botox and what it can do. If you are considering treatment, here are several facts you should know.
How Does it Work?
Botox is the brand name for botulinum toxin, and can be safe and effective when given by a trained physician. Botox works by inhibiting the contraction of muscles that cause wrinkles – specifically, the lines everyone has when they make a facial expression such as frowning or squinting. This treatment is designed to soften these facial wrinkles, giving you the appearance of a more youthful face. However, Botox will not plump up smile lines or deep wrinkles.
What Are the Risks?
Generally, Botox is considered safe when given as directed. However, there are some side effects that may occur. Nausea, headache, bruising at the injection site, redness, itching, increased sweat production and temporary muscle weakness are side effects that you should speak to your doctor about if they do not go away. In rare cases, the botulinum toxin may spread throughout your body and can cause botulism signs and symptoms. If this occurs, you should immediately seek medical attention.
Is it Permanent?
Botox injections are not permanent. Within three to six months, the effects will begin to fade. To maintain your youthful appearance, you need to get repeat injections every few months.
How Long Does it Take?
When you arrive for your Botox appointment, you can expect to be there for about 10 to 15 minutes. Additionally, Botox injections require very little downtime. The majority of patients can immediately resume their normal activities. However, take care not to rub or massage the area of the injections – this can cause the toxin to migrate to a different part of the body.
Does it Hurt?
The doctor will typically prescribe a medication to numb the area where the injections will be given. However, some patients might feel discomfort or very mild pain when being treated with Botox. Generally, the discomfort is tolerable for the majority of Botox patients.
How Much Does it Cost?
The price for Botox injections varies widely and will depend on a number of factors. Most Botox physicians charge per unit (not per area) with prices ranging from about $10 to $15 per unit. To put it in perspective, this amounts to an average cost of $300 to $600 per treatment. However, it’s always a good idea to research prices in your area before committing to a physician.
Are Their Natural Alternatives to Botox?
For people who are leery of any cosmetic procedures, there is a natural alternative to Botox. Natox works exactly like Botox but doesn’t require needles or invasive procedures. It has been clinically proven to give patients younger looking skin and contains only natural, organic ingredients. Additionally, Natox is painless, has no side effects and is a safe and effective natural alternative to Botox. Finally, Natox is less expensive than Botox injections.
Botox injections are a popular cosmetic treatment, but there’s still a lot of misinformation regarding this procedure. Whether you are considering Botox injections or a natural alternative such as Natox, you should always make sure to research your options and decide on a course of treatment that’s right for you.