Talking About Spas and Salons

4 Tips For A Successful Botox Appointment

by Colleen Sanders

Botox is a type of cosmetic injection used to relax harsh expressions and smooth wrinkles. Botox injections can be administered in a dermatologist's office or in a spa setting by a trained practitioner. Botox is a safe and effective way to get the fresh-faced appearance you desire. Here are some tips that will help patients have a successful Botox injection appointment:

1. Arrive with a clean face.

Botox is injected directly into facial muscles in order to partially paralyze them. This paralysis is temporary, and it is responsible for the desirable effects of Botox. Whenever something punctures your skin, cleanliness is vital in order to prevent infections. The person who administers your Botox injections will first sterilize your skin using an alcohol swab. For best results, you should arrive at your Botox appointment with a clean face that is devoid of makeup.

2. Avoid blood-thinners before your procedure.

Certain substances can thin a person's blood and make bruising more likely. Blood-thinning medication is made for this purpose, but some common foods and medicines can also have the same effect. NSAIDs like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can both thin your blood, as can alcohol. To avoid bruising as a result of your Botox injections, avoid NSAIDs and alcohol for at least a week before your Botox procedure. If you do experience minor bruising, you can treat it by applying ice to your face when you get home.

3. Relax during the procedure.

Botox injections don't take very long. In most cases, the person administering your Botox injections will be finished in just a few minutes. Botox injections are not very painful, but you will likely experience less pain if you relax during the procedure. If you tend to be nervous around needles, bringing a distraction might help. Some people find that listening to soothing music during their appointment allows them to relax while the doctor does their job. Some doctors will offer patients a topical anesthetic before the procedure begins, which can make the injections even easier and more painless. 

4. Wait at least two weeks before seeking touch-ups.

Most people will not see the results of their Botox injections for at least a week. However, it can take up to two weeks for the full results to be apparent. Remember to be patient while you wait. You can always return to your dermatologist for more Botox if you're unsatisfied with your results, but you should wait until at least two weeks before seeking touch-ups.

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