Everything You Need to Know About Botox

how long does botox last

Over the past 20 years, Botox has become one of the most popular anti-wrinkle treatments in the world, with millions of people using it each year. Despite what you might think, Botox can achieve very natural, soft results — preventing and reducing wrinkles without creating a fake or plastic look. In fact, you probably see a few people every day who’ve had Botox and you’d never know it!

If you’re curious about the treatment but don’t know where to start, let us tell you all about it. Here at Araya Beauty, we’ve teamed up with certified doctors from LumaDoc to provide safe, reliable, and effective Botox treatments in South Dublin. Here’s everything we know about Botox, including how it works, how long it lasts, and how to get long-lasting results.

What is Botox and How Does it Work?

If you’re not familiar with Botox, it’s a cosmetic treatment that’s used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It’s a safe and effective way to achieve a more youthful, refreshed appearance without the need for surgery or extensive downtime.

The treatment works by using a safe, non-surgical injection of Botox into specific facial muscles. The injection contains a neurotoxin called botulinum toxin, which temporarily relaxes the muscles. The idea behind it is to reduce the appearance of wrinkles by reducing the movement of the muscles that cause them. It works by blocking nerve signals to the injected muscles, so they can’t contract.

Botox is most effective for dynamic wrinkles like forehead wrinkles (horizontal lines across the forehead, or vertical lines like “11” frown lines between the eyebrows), crow’s feet, and smile lines. Aside from its cosmetic purposes, Botox can also be used in medical settings for an overactive bladder or to control excessive sweating in the underarms.

Many people choose Botox to enhance their natural appearance and boost their confidence. The treatment is quick and minimally invasive, with minimal discomfort and downtime. And best of all, it’s a great way to look and feel your best!

How long does Botox last?

The effects of Botox typically last for 3-6 months, depending on your lifestyle, wrinkle depth, and the amount of Botox used.

Botox works by using a neurotoxin to temporarily relax the muscles in your face that cause wrinkles and fine lines. Over time, your body naturally metabolises the botulinum toxin in your system, so the effects wear off. Your muscles naturally regain their strength and your skin begins to move again, so the wrinkles and lines will start to reappear. That’s why it’s important to have repeat maintenance treatments to keep up your results.

The longevity of Botox can vary depending on a number of factors, including your skin type, your age, and the amount of Botox used. But overall, it’s is a convenient and long-lasting way to enhance your appearance and feel confident in your own skin.

How to Make Botox Last Longer

If you want your anti-wrinkle injections to last a little longer, here are a few things you can do:

  1. Avoid rubbing or massaging the injected area. This can cause Botox to spread to other muscles and reduce its effectiveness.

  2. Limit exposure to heat. Heat can cause Botox to break down more quickly, so avoid hot showers, saunas, and sunbathing for at least 24 hours after the treatment.

  3. Protect your skin from the sun. Sun damage causes inflammation in the body that can accelerate the breakdown of Botox. Wear SPF and cover your skin from the sun whenever possible.
  4. Avoid alcohol and cigarettes. Alcohol can increase blood flow, which can cause Botox to metabolize more quickly. Smoking damages your skin cells and encourages the formation of wrinkles, which can shorten the lifespan of your injections.

  5. Don’t exercise too heavily. Regular strenuous exercise can increase your metabolic rate, which can cause Botox to break down more quickly. Try switching some of your higher-intensity sessions to low or moderate-intensity workouts like yoga, hiking, or aerobics.

  6. Keep your skin moisturised. Keep your skin healthy and hydrated with a good quality moisturiser. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid can keep skin plump and youthful, while ceramides and fatty acids can protect your skin from external aggressors and toxins that can damage skin cells and reduce the lifespan of Botox.
  7. Choose a reputable provider. Make sure the person administering your Botox is a licensed professional with plenty of experience.

  8. Schedule touch-up appointments. Regular touch-up appointments can help maintain the effects of Botox over time. 

Is Botox safe?

Yes, Botox is very safe as long as it’s carried out by a properly trained professional.

Botox is regulated in Ireland by the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA). The HPRA is responsible for ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of all healthcare products, and it sets strict standards for the use of cosmetic treatments like Botox.

Botox has to be carried out by a licensed healthcare professional. Here at Araya Beauty, all Botox is administered by a trained and certified doctor from LumaDoc. 

Of course, as with any medical procedure, there are potential side effects and risks involved. Some of the common side effects include headaches, bruising, and redness at the injection site. Serious side effects are very rare, but they can include flu-like symptoms, or difficulty breathing or swallowing. It’s important to talk to your doctor about your medical history and any concerns you may have before getting Botox to ensure that it’s safe and right for you.

Who shouldn't get Botox?

Botox is an effective and safe treatment, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Here are a few examples:

  1. Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Botox has not been fully tested for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, so it’s best to avoid it during these times.

  2. People with nerve or muscle conditions: Botox works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles, so if you have a nerve or muscle condition that affects your ability to move, you should talk to your doctor before getting it.

  3. People with skin infections: If you have a skin infection in the area which will be injected, you should avoid the treatment until the infection has cleared.

  4. People with allergies: If you have a history of allergies or adverse reactions to any of the ingredients in Botox, you should avoid the treatment.

  5. People taking certain medications: If you’re taking medications that affect your muscle function, such as blood thinners or muscle relaxants, you should talk to your doctor before getting this treatment.

It’s important to talk to your doctor about your medical history and any concerns you may have before getting Botox to ensure that it’s safe and right for you. Your doctor can help you determine if it’s a good option for you based on your unique circumstances.

What to Expect From a Botox Appointment

Here’s what you can expect during a Botox appointment with Araya Beauty:

  1. Consultation: One of the doctors from LumaDoc will discuss your medical history, skin type, and desired results to figure out how much to inject, and where.

  2. Cleaning: The area to be injected will be cleaned with an antiseptic.

  3. Marking: The doctor will mark the area to be injected.

  4. Injection: The doctor will inject the Botox into specific muscles using a very fine needle. The process is quick and usually takes just a few minutes.

  5. Aftercare: Your doctor will give you instructions on how to care for the injected area, including avoiding certain activities for a few hours after the appointment.

  6. Follow-up: You can then schedule a follow-up appointment for any maintenance treatments. 

There’s no need to be nervous about the process — Botox appointments are typically short, with minimal discomfort and downtime. You should be able to return to your normal activities immediately after the appointment, although you may experience some redness and swelling at the injection site. It’s important to follow our aftercare instructions to ensure the best results!