UK - Botox FAQ’s – find out everything you need to know about Botox from HL Cosmetics

Muscle relaxants, otherwise known as the brand name Botox are talked about so much in our current world and more and more people are taking the step and having them. Before you have Botox or any muscle relaxing injections you should find out everything you can and our Botox FAQ’s will help you understand the benefits, the risks to help you decide if you want to go ahead as well as how to choose which clinic you go to.

What does Botox do?

After the muscle relaxant is injected into the area, the botulinum toxin (muscle relaxant) blocks the signals from the nerves to the muscles by suffusing the nerve terminal and binding it which then prevents the release of acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter. Without acetylcholine, the muscle activity stops in the area it has been injected into and the temporary paralysis smoothes the lines and wrinkles and stops spasms.

Botulinum toxin also interferes with the release of pain and inflammatory mediators including substance P and glutamine, which is why it is used to treat migraines, muscular stiffness, spasms and movement disorders.

Does it hurt having Botox?

Any injection can hurt and the area being focused on can be numbed with a topical anaesthetic cream 20 minutes beforehand to help prevent any discomfort. The needles used for muscle relaxant injections are very small, just 0.5mm so even without the topical anaesthetic cream the pain and discomfort are minimal.

Is Botox safe for your face?

Yes, Botox and other muscle relaxants are safe to use on the face and other areas of the body as well as using it in the long term. As an example, after botulinum toxin proved successful in the treatment of strabismus, Allergan licensed the treatment and branded it Botox and they received FDA approval for a variety of medical and cosmetic uses as did other muscle relaxant brands.

How quickly do you see the effects of Botox?

You can see the effect of muscle relaxants almost immediately after your treatment and the results will continue to improve for 1-2 weeks after your procedure.

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How often can you have Botox?

You can have muscle relaxants as often as you want in different areas of your face and body. The effects of muscle relaxants will last anything from 3-6 months, therefore, it is recommended that you only have a treatment once every 3-6 months in the same area. The facial muscles begin to train themselves to contract less and the more treatments you have over time reduces the time between your treatments.

Is there any medication I cannot take before having Botox?

Muscle relaxants cannot be carried out if you are taking antibiotics, anti-inflammatories or some other medication, therefore, it is really important you let your doctor or clinician know everything you are and have been taking previously.

What are the side effects of Botox?

Potential muscle relaxant side effects can include; pain at the injection site, infection, inflammation, swelling, redness, bleeding and bruising. Some of these symptoms may indicate an allergic reaction so you should speak to your doctor or clinician or seek medical attention if you are concerned.

You can read our full Botox FAQ's here: hlcosmetics.co.uk/botox-faqs/