Lately, when looking in the mirror, have you noticed your face has a fine line or the hint of a wrinkle? Maybe it is a deep line across your forehead that appears whenever you get excited? Or some laugh lines that seem to take their own sweet time leaving the sides of your mouth after you smile?

Contrary to widely held belief, fine lines and wrinkles can appear well before middle age. Even if you stay well hydrated, moisturize, eat healthily, and get plenty of sleep. Staying youthful from head to toe is a preoccupation, especially in this technology age with 5G and triple camera capabilities in the palm of your hand able to capture every flaw!

Both men and women actively seek popular non-invasive cosmetic procedures like Botox® Cosmetic (FDA-approved for more than 20 years for adults 18 years and older) and fillers to prevent or reverse aging. So, let us look at the fast in-office treatment of Botox from preventative to maintenance; depending on where you are in life will determine which is right for you.

What is Botox?

Botox, or Botulinum Toxin, is a natural protein produced by the bacterium clostridium botulinum that softens the muscles causing wrinkles in the face to lessen the signs of aging, creating a fresher appearance. The results give patients increased confidence.

How does Botox treatment work?

Your muscles are supplied by nerves that stimulate their contraction by releasing the organic chemical acetylcholine at their endings. The acetylcholine acts as a neurotransmitter by attaching itself to your muscle cells’ receptors and induces contractions. When inserted through a needle into regions of the face, it relaxes the muscles. By softening the muscles, Botox prevents them from contracting to cause wrinkles and creases.

How is Botox Given?

Botox is administered through an injection with a micro-needle to the areas requiring treatment. Muscle typically receives three injections each. Results begin to appear a few days later, with full results 1-2 weeks following. To achieve the best outcomes, adhere to the instructions provided by Dr. Barret, a board-certified plastic surgeon.

How long does Botox last?

On average, Botox lasts 3-4 months. For some, the time is up to six months, while first-time patients have experienced it staying for two months. Botox will gradually last longer after multiple treatments.

When is the time right to get Botox?

Since its popular beginnings decades ago, Botox has come a long way. It was known as the procedure for older women to “freeze” the face to stop the aging process. Back then, it gave an unnatural appearance and removed the ability to show facial expressions, giving women the perpetual look of surprise. Today, people of all ages have embraced its advancements beyond looking youthful; for other ailments including migraines, excessive sweating, TMJ, overactive bladder, and lazy eye, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Only you can determine when the time is right to call for a consultation. After meeting with Dr. Barrett, you will speak with Kelley, Barrett Plastic Surgery’s medical aesthetician; she performs all non-invasive procedures.

Here is a breakdown of why each age group should consider Botox treatment.

Gen Z & Millennials (18-29)

This is not your grandmother’s Botox! Now young adults can prevent premature aging with ‘Preventative Botox,’ also known as Baby Botox. Think of it as a tiny touch-up before the face’s lines become more pronounced, keeping your look as natural and youthful as possible. Baby Botox uses less Botox and fewer injections with longer timeframes between treatments. But, before you say, “I’m in,” because you want to look like a Kardashian does not mean you need Botox. Starting too soon can have consequences. As the saying goes, “If it is not broke, do not fix it!”

Millennials 2.0 (29-39)

In your 30s, you have likely noticed the appearance of wrinkles on the face, some crow’s feet around the eyes, and laugh lines more evident around the mouth. It is the time when the effects of too much sun, smoking, inappropriate sleep patterns, and excessive drinking since your 20s reveals themselves on the face. It is also a time when stress from work and life, in general, are massive contributors to the aging process. Unless you live like a rockstar, your face may not need the full concentration of Botox, and you can consider Botox Sprinkles.

This process is where Botox is actually “sprinkled” around the face in small doses and only needed a few times a year to soften the lines for an enhancement that looks more natural over time.

Gen X (40-55) & Boomers (56-74)

By this age, Botox treatments are on a frequent schedule because the effects do not last as long, alongside other issues like pigmentation, volume loss, and loose skin needing treatment. Earlier lifestyle choices, unfortunately, play a vital role.

That is why, if your skin is more prone to fine lines and wrinkles due to the following factors, then you may benefit the most from Botox treatments.

• Dry skin can contract fat skin cells, otherwise resulting in premature fine lines and wrinkles.
• Oily skin may result in less fine lines. Still, the lines that appear may be deeper because oily skin is comparatively thicker in nature.
• Lighter skin may be affected more by the UV-rays. Hence the signs of photoaging are more prominent. Skin tones of all types, light, medium, or dark, will eventually show aging signs.
• Not eating a well-balanced diet full of antioxidants and vitamin-rich foods, the skin will show the results.
• Excessive sun exposure causes signs of premature photoaging.

These factors individually are significant for discovering how your skin is coping and whether it could use a little refresh.

Natural, healthy-looking skin is the trend in beauty now. No one has perfect skin. We can all use a little help. When you are ready to commit to Botox, give Barrett Plastic Surgery a call. One of our caring front desk coordinators will schedule a time to discuss treatment options. You can address your concerns and expectations with our team in detail. We will guide you with the safest practical options, be it a single treatment or a discounted package, or multiple treatments. Putting your finest face forward is the gift that keeps on giving to yourself, and you are worth every bit of it!

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