Aging is a fact of life. But living in highly polluted environments, the stress of work and everyday life, even our diets are taking a toll on our health … and showing up on our skin! We are showing signs of aging with fine lines and wrinkles showing up a lot sooner than they ought to.

Botox injections have become one of the most sought after non-surgical cosmetic treatments in India, and the world. Yet, there remain many myths about the drug as well as its applications, so we hope this blog begins an informed conversation for you!

What is Botox and how exactly does it work?

Botox is the brand name for Botulinum Toxin Type A, which is a purified protein made from a type of bacteria. It has been researched and developed for over 100 years and is FDA approved for multiple medical purposes, like the treatment of muscle spasms, underarm sweating, and migraines. Physicians use it for aesthetic purposes in low doses to treat fine lines and wrinkles. Botox works by blocking nerve impulses in the injected area that are responsible for the contraction of muscles. When the injected muscle cannot contract, the result is the relaxation and softening of wrinkles.

The effects of Botox are not permanent. You will notice the effects typically within 48 hours after the injection. It lasts for three to five months, at which point you would need another treatment to maintain the anti-wrinkle effects.

Will Botox get rid of my Wrinkles?

Botox does not remove your wrinkles. As Dr. Latika explains “Botox works by temporarily relaxing the facial muscles that cause wrinkles, so the creases are reduced, and you get a smoother appearance.”

Botox is quite effective on the wrinkles on the forehead, around the mouth and cheeks, and the corner of the eyes. Dr. Latika says, “I have patients who complain about forehead lines that make them look upset or worried, when they are not! Botox is a great solution for such dynamic facial wrinkles.”

Botox may not be just a superficial solution that ‘freezes’ the muscles. A recent study published in published in JAMA Facial Plastic Surgeryby a team of Canadian doctors showed that the drug increases skin elasticity for the three to four months that it stays active.

Is Botox safe?

Botox has been extensively studied for medical and cosmetic applications, and is generally considered safe. Dr. Latika points out, “Botox is safe and effective. But it is important you only get Botox injections from a trained medical professional and in a clinic that follows all appropriate medical and sterile procedures. At Skin ‘n Smiles, Botox is only performed by physicians who have undergone extensive training.”

Are there any side effects to Botox?

If injected correctly, most patients don’t have issues beyond minor redness, bruising, or swelling.

Is Botox right for me?

The best candidates for Botox are individuals with fine lines and wrinkles across the forehead, between the eyebrows, and at the corners of the eyes. Candidates must be in good overall health, and not suffer from neuromuscular diseases, and in case of women not be pregnant or breastfeeding.

Just because you don’t have wrinkles now, does not mean Botox is not for you. Botox can be a preventative anti-aging treatment. “Starting treatment before you have pronounced lines can in fact slow the development of deeper wrinkles. Not only is it easier to treat these finer creases, you also reduce the treatments needed later”, says Dr. Latika. “So, you can look younger, with smoother skin, for a longer time”.

The effects of Botox are different for each person. It is important you discuss your expectations and goals with the doctor before treatment. Dr. Latika believes that it is extremely important that patients are given the information they need to feel at ease. That’s why she spends time having a discussion with her patients about their desires and concerns. “I feel that as aesthetic physicians we need to be collaborate with the patients so they can achieve their goals that make them look and feel like their best self. So listening is key.”

If you have any more specific questions about Botox, feel free to contact Dr. Latika Dhawan at Skin ‘n Smiles Clinic or consult with her online on the Skin ‘n Smiles app.