Botox is a “protein” derived from bacteria that cause food poisoning. Doctors use it to paralyze muscles and have many off-label uses, such as treating migraines and facial tics. However, it’s most commonly known for its cosmetic benefits — with celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Vanessa Hudgens admitting to using Botox at a young age.
This treatment is not without its side effects, however. Here are some things you should consider after your procedure: Read more on Post botox care.
1) It’s temporary
Botox only lasts for three to four months on average. Therefore it needs to be repeated periodically to maintain the same results. That said, Botox can be a life-long commitment if you like the effects; both Kylie and her sister Kendall Jenner have had it for years.
2) It’s expensive
Botox is not cheap! Even if your insurance covers part of the procedure (my health plan covers $500 per year), you will still be paying a ton for the actual Botox. A typical session can cost anywhere between $500-$1000, and it’s recommended that you have maintenance sessions every three to four months. It is why celebrity-obsessed women are always trying to find ways to get Botox for cheap.
3) Your face will feel limp and numb
Botox is known for its ability to smooth away frown lines and forehead wrinkles. However, this effect comes from paralyzing your muscles. If you’ve had Botox, the chances are that your face feels strange afterward — like there’s nothing underneath the skin! This numbness goes away after a few days.
4) Your face will look more relaxed and natural
Botox helps maintain a youthful appearance by helping to prevent signs of aging. However, this doesn’t mean that your face will look unnatural. Botox treatments typically don’t involve any needles or incisions — meaning that the injections are nearly painless. The only notable side effect is some swelling, which disappears on its own.
5) You might get a headache
Botox injections aren’t painless, but they are tolerable, especially if you’ve gotten them before. A majority of people don’t feel anything during the procedure itself. However, some people experience headaches afterward due to the injection site being sore from the muscle relaxant. If you get a headache after your Post botox care, try applying some ice or taking an anti-inflammatory medication.
6) Your vision may be blurry
Botox can make your eyelids look heavy and limp. If you blink too much during the procedure (which I did), it might blur your vision afterward. Therefore it’s recommended that you avoid reading and watching TV for at least 24 hours after the treatment.
7) You might experience muscle weakness
Botox relaxes your muscles, but it also paralyzes them in the process. It means that you can’t move specific parts of your face making you look as if you’re frozen! The good news is that this effect is temporary. It usually wears off within a day or two.
8) Your face might feel sore, red, and swollen afterward
It is the most common side effect, although it can easily manage it with painkillers. The swelling goes away after about 24 hours, but you’ll probably experience some soreness for at least 48 hours — especially if you’ve got large doses. Redness can last anywhere between a few days to a week.
9) You’ll need to avoid getting Botox in the same area at the same time
You should never get Post botox care on the same part of your body within three months (to prevent complications). It means that if you want different results, you’ll need to space out the sessions. Just make sure not to do them too close together; otherwise, you might get withdrawal symptoms (like botulism!).
10) You should avoid applying makeup for a day or two after your treatment
You don’t want Botox clogging up your pores; therefore, you should avoid putting on any face products for at least 24 hours after the treatment. Some clinics recommend shaving before your treatment as well, although it’s not entirely necessary (unless you have a lot of peach fuzz in that area).
