Botox injections may sound intimidating but they are a commonly-used and safe intervention. Botox leverages a substance called onobotulinumtoxinA, which is actually a toxin, to induce a temporary paralysis in muscles when injected under the skin. While produced by the microbe that causes botulism, Botox is safe for cosmetic use, especially in the upper parts of the face. By immobilizing certain muscles, Botox creates a smoother appearance in the overlying skin. The benefits of Botox treatments can take a few days to appear but typically last for months. Patients can also receive multiple treatments.
Botox can cause some side effects, including but not limited to:
In rare cases, more serious side effects can include unusual weakness in the muscles, incontinence, and difficulty talking or swallowing.
While some injectables show results immediately, the results from Botox typically start appearing a few days after you have had your injection. Your full results may not appear until 7 to 14 days after your injection.
For this reason, it is important to hold off on any follow-up treatment for at least two weeks, so that you and your dermatologist can assess the full results of your Botox treatment.
Generally speaking, Botox injections continue to show results for about three to four months. This can vary from patient to patient. In some first-time patients, the shot can last for just two months, while repeat patients can see results that last for as long as six months. While it varies from patient to patient, the average Botox patient receives injections every four months.
