As we age, our skin, muscles, bones, and fat tend to lose volume and develop signs of aging. A standard option for individuals seeking to rejuvenate their skin is to undergo Botox or filler injections. These treatments can decrease the appearance of wrinkles and give volume to areas that may be lacking.
Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to give a more full and younger appearance. While Botox is most commonly known for enhancing cosmetic appearances, it can also treat certain medical conditions, such as excessive sweating or migraines. Whether you are pursuing Botox treatment or filler injections, it is essential to know how these cosmetic procedures can affect your appearance and overall well-being.
What are Botox treatments and dermal fillers?
Botox is an injectable neurotoxin that, in small doses, can reduce wrinkles and increase skin elasticity. It is considered a minimally invasive, safe, and effective treatment for wrinkles around the eyes or forehead area. While Botox is used for both aesthetic procedures and medical treatments, it is still a toxin that can cause botulism (paralysis) if administered improperly.
Dermal fillers replace volume lost due to aging by injecting soft, gel-like substances beneath the skin. There are different fillers, including Hyaluronic Acid, Poly-L-lactic Acid, Calcium Hydroxylapatite, and Polymethylmethacrylate. Fillers are often used to fill wrinkles around the eyes, nose, and mouth and restore volume to cheeks, temples, and lips. Additionally, fillers can be one method to balance out the symmetry of certain facial features.
12 Things to Know about Botox and Fillers
1. Botox doesn’t “erase” wrinkles
While Botox decreases the appearance of wrinkles, it is more of a preventative treatment than restorative. The active ingredients temporarily paralyze facial muscles that, when contracted, cause wrinkles.
2. They can be painful
Botox and fillers are both injected with needles and can therefore sting during application. Depending on the location of the injection, your nerves may respond more drastically to the needle.
3. It may restrict physical activity
Most experts recommend refraining from physical activity for at least 24 hours after the procedure, as an increase in blood flow can potentially diffuse the Botox. Additionally, it is wise to refrain from laying down, bending over, or even taking a hot shower for up to four hours after injection.
4. It’s surprisingly affordable
Botox prices are accessible to a broader range of income levels than one might assume. However, if the cost is shockingly low, it may be worthwhile to question the source of the injectable or whether the dosage is diluted.
5. They may interact with your current medications
Certain medications, including antibiotics and anticoagulants, can decrease the effectiveness of Botox treatments and fillers. Consult with your healthcare provider before pursuing aesthetic procedures that may interact with your current medications.
6. Results are temporary
How long do Botox and dermal fillers last? Both are temporary solutions that may require multiple applications. Although some dermal fillers may last multiple years, the absorbent nature of fillers means that you may need another treatment within six months.
7. Know where your injectable came from
While Botox and dermal fillers are FDA approved, it is essential to ensure that your injectable is coming from a reliable source. Before going in for treatments, verify your cosmetic doctor’s validity and ask for in-depth information about the origin of the injectable.
8. You may bruise
Many Botox injection side effects are expected, including temporary paralysis around the injection site, dull headaches, or swelling. While bruising is uncommon, it is possible to sustain minor discoloration around the site of application. These bruises will either heal on their own, or you can discuss options with your doctor.
9. Not all fillers are made equally
A different kind of dermal filler may be used for various target areas. Certain fillers are more likely to be absorbed by the body and eventually break down, while others are more durable and can even harden over time. Consult with an expert to determine which option may be best for you.
10. You can start early
Botox and filler injections are preventative measures to reduce the appearance of aging, which is why individuals as young as their late twenties are pursuing treatments. Starting early may delay the onset of wrinkles and prevent noticeable aging lines down the road.
11. They are generally safe
Botox and dermal fillers are generally safe to use when acquired from a reliable source and appropriately administered. Prevent adverse side effects and improper application by doing your research and validating your doctor’s experience with injectable fillers and toxins.
12. You will still have facial expressions
Despite what movies may indicate, Botox and dermal fillers will not prevent you from expressing yourself through facial movements. Although you may experience temporary paralysis immediately following treatment, you will still be able to participate in non-verbal communication. Your expressions may just be more subtle than they were before treatment.
How to know if Botox and fillers are right for you
Before pursuing injectable treatments, conduct further research on the procedure, side effects, and potential results of Botox and dermal fillers. Consider your current medications and cosmetic goals, and consult with your dermatologist and doctor to discuss which options may be best for you.
