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As generations age, they seem to be getting younger. One reason could be that millennials and Gen Zers care more about their overall health — as well as their looks. Millennials and Gen Z are more proactive in terms of their health, rather than reactive like older generations.
Botox, a neurotoxin derived from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, has become increasingly popular as a cosmetic treatment for wrinkles and fine lines. However, what many people do not know is that Botox can also be used as a preventative measure to delay the onset of wrinkles and fine lines.
“Botox can help the anti-aging process and reduce fine lines that normally appear later in life,” shares Justin Boutilier, an aesthetic physician with over 15 years of experience, and manager of LightTouch Med Spa Orlando.
Why Botox is right for you
Botox can be used as a preventative measure for those in their 20s and 30s before wrinkles and fine lines start to become visible. It can also be used for those in their 40s and beyond, as a way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines that have already formed.
However, Botox is not suitable for everyone. Whether Botox is right for someone depends on several factors, including their age, skin type, and severity of their wrinkles. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not receive Botox injections, and people with certain medical conditions or allergies may not be suitable candidates for the treatment.
It is important to consult with a qualified medical professional to determine if Botox is safe and appropriate for your individual needs. During a consultation, a medical aesthetic team will assess your skin and discuss your concerns and goals. They will also go through your medical history to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for Botox. If you have a history of muscle or nerve conditions, you may not be a good fit to receive Botox treatment.
Additionally, it is important to have realistic expectations for the results of Botox treatment. While it can be effective at reducing the appearance of wrinkles, the effects are temporary and eventually wear off, usually within three to four months.
Preventative Botox reduces wrinkles and fine lines
Botox works by temporarily relaxing the muscles that cause wrinkles and fine lines. As we age, our skin loses elasticity, and repetitive muscle contractions from facial expressions cause wrinkles and fine lines to form. Botox helps prevent these contractions, which in turn prevents the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.
Botox is commonly used on the forehead, around the eyes, and between the eyebrows, as these areas are prone to wrinkles and fine lines. However, Botox can also be used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines around the mouth, chin, and neck.
Botox is a minimally invasive procedure that can be done in as little as 10-15 minutes. The effects of Botox typically last three to four months, after which the treatment can be repeated. With regular use, Botox can delay the onset of wrinkles and fine lines, as well as reduce the appearance of existing ones.
Rapid-fire Botox Q&As
Is Botox safe?
Botox is considered safe when administered by a trained medical professional. However, like any medical treatment, there are risks involved. Some potential risks of Botox include bruising, swelling, and infection at the injection site. In rare cases, more serious side effects — such as difficulty swallowing or breathing — may occur.
Will Botox make me look frozen or unnatural?
When administered by a trained medical professional, Botox should not make you look frozen or unnatural. The goal of Botox is to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while still allowing for natural facial expressions.
“Botox has evolved since its early stages,” says Boutilier. “There are different types of injections you can get. The medical provider will take the time to study your skin and determine the best one for you.”
How long does it take for Botox to work?
It typically takes three to five days for Botox to take effect. The full effects of Botox can take up to two weeks to be visible and it lasts three to four months.
How much does Botox cost?
The cost of Botox varies depending on the area being treated and the number of units required. “At LightTouch, it’s $8.75/unit, and depending on how many units you need, it could be as little as $75 or as much as $900,” informs Boutilier. “The good thing is, most places offer group deals which can include ‘Botox Parties.’”
Thanks to social media, the stigma around Botox — and other cosmetic procedures — is lessening, and more and more people are getting them. There have also been studies of Botox helping with migraines, repetitive movements, and sweating. Botox is not something you have to wait until you form deeper lines. It can be preventative and help you in the long term by minimizing wrinkles and fine lines overall.
