What Age Should I Start Preventative Botox Injections?

Dr. Luke Cusimano, FACS

What Age Should I Start Preventative Botox Injections?

Apr 1, 2020 | Botox, Non-Surgical

Botox is an injectable product which works by blocking nerve signals to the facial muscles that create wrinkles by repetitive movements as you make facial expressions. Its active ingredient is botulinum toxin type A. By blocking the nerve signals, Botox temporarily relaxes the muscles of the face, which softens wrinkles in the forehead and around the eyes.

HOW DO BOTOX INJECTIONS WORK?

The treatment area is first cleansed before a needle inserts the Botox. Anesthetics are sometimes applied before injection. Sometimes multiple injections are needed. Some patients who have undergone the Botox procedure describe feeling a pricking sensation. The effects of the procedure tend to last about 3 to 6 months. Eventually, the product will be metabolized and lines will return.

WHAT FACTORS SHOULD I CONSIDER BEFORE GETTING BOTOX INJECTIONS?

Before you decide to get Botox, choose the clinic that is best for you. There are a lot of clinics that perform the Botox procedure. It is very important for you to select the right clinic to perform this procedure. Focus on board-certified doctors and technicians. Research your doctor and make sure their work matches what you want from your procedure. Schedule a consultation and make sure you are comfortable with your doctor.

Next, create a plan for treatment. When you’ve chosen your doctor, make sure that you create a plan that works for you. It is important to remember that you may need to visit the clinic on multiple occasions to continue your treatment. Make sure you create a plan that takes into account the features of your face. The dermatologist or plastic surgeon may examine your face to see whether Botox is a necessary option.

Stay within your budget. Make sure to consider your budget when making your plan for Botox treatment. Botox treatments last about 5 to 6 months. You may decide to return for multiple treatments in the future. Work with your doctor to create a treatment plan that aligns with your budget. Consider your lifestyle and the factors you can control. This helps to maximize the benefits of the procedure.

Understand the risks. Botox is still a relatively new cosmetic treatment, and researchers are still studying the long-term effects. High doses of Botox can cause an unintended reaction through nerve cells. Proper doses are approved and deemed to be safe. Consider whether Botox is right for you. Make sure this is a decision that makes you comfortable.

WHAT IS THE BEST AGE TO BEGIN PREVENTATIVE INJECTIONS?

The general consensus is that the best time to begin preventative injections is when you notice the lines on your face. The wrinkles will continue to develop. When the lines begin to remain on your face even when the muscles are resting, this is the time to consider the procedure. The decision is based on a few factors. Your skin tone and the amount of sunlight you receive may play a role in this decision.