Discover Why Botox Is The Most Versatile Beauty Treatment Out There

Most people have heard of Botox. It’s the most popular minimally-invasive cosmetic procedure in the US. And you probably know at least one of the things it does: temporarily erase fine lines and wrinkles. But the great thing about Botox is how many concerns it treats–many of which are not as well-known as wrinkles! At Upkeep, we think Botox is a safe, effective way to achieve all kinds of beauty goals–read on to see why!

What is Botox? How does it work?

Botox is the byproduct of the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Yes, it’s technically a ‘toxin,’ but don’t let that scare you. When injected into muscles, it temporarily paralyzes them. This paralysis lasts for a few months before wearing off. It was first administered to treat eye problems, freezing the muscles around the eyes in order to improve vision and fix “lazy eyes”. Doctors noticed that the wrinkles around patients’ eyes smoothed out, and that aha moment led to the authorization of Botox for aesthetic purposes (aka: to make people look better).

What concerns does Botox treat?

Botox is used to treat a range of concerns:

• Erases wrinkles and fine lines on the face and neck
• Stops excessive sweating in armpits or hands
• Lifts your eyebrows (a subtle version of the ‘fox eye lift’)
• Relaxes your upper lip for a pouty, full appearance without filler (this is called the lip flip)
• Slims your jawline by reducing the size of the masseter muscle

So you can get Botox to treat or prevent wrinkles. But you can also get Botox to slim your jawline or subtly adjust your lips and eyes. It all depends on your beauty goals.

What is the treatment like?

Botox treatments are quick, ranging from 15-30 minutes. If you want a topical numbing cream applied to the injection site, that can extend the appointment time, because it takes a little while for the cream to start working. Injections are uncomfortable–someone’s sticking a needle in your face! But the needle used for Botox is pretty tiny. It feels like a pinch, and it doesn’t last long. PSA: If you’re getting Botox in your hands to treat excessive sweating, that can be very painful, so it’s best to opt in to the numbing cream.

What’s the after-care like?

After the treatment, you shouldn’t exercise or expose yourself to high heat (no sauna visits!). Don’t lie down for at least four hours. All of these precautions have to do with avoiding the Botox diffusing from the treatment site. You also shouldn’t drink alcohol for 24 hours after, as it can make bruising worse. Bruising around the injection site can happen, but it tends to be pretty mild. Otherwise, no one will be able to tell that you’ve just had Botox injections.

How long does it take to see results and how long do they last?

Unlike filler, Botox results are not immediate. Results develop over a two week period. Results last for about 3-4 months on average, though you may experience results that last a little longer than that or shorter. It depends on the person. Plan to get Botox regularly, about four times a year, for best results. 

Is there anyone who should not get Botox?

Botox is safe and effective for most people, as long as you’re healthy. But if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have certain neurological diseases, you should not get Botox. Your doctor or treatment provider can advise you if Botox is right for you. 

Where can I get Botox?

Botox should be done by a licensed medical professional, since, you know, this person is injecting stuff into your face muscles. With the Upkeep app, you can choose from our vetted, trusted list of treatment providers in your area. Plus, you can schedule Botox appointments right in the app–no need to call around or wait on hold, just select the day you want to get the treatment, and book with a few taps! We make it easy for you to look your absolute best. 

Do you want smooth, wrinkle-free skin, a snatched jaw, or foxy eyes? Your beauty dreams are within reach. Book a Botox appointment in the Upkeep app today!

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