The chemical Botulinum Toxin A (Botox) is injected in tiny amounts into carefully selected muscles of the face or neck.
Over the next 14 days the chemical exerts it’s effect as a neuromuscular blocker, preventing the release of Acetylcholine from nerve endings.
When Acetylcholine ceases to be released, the target muscle no longer contracts (or contracts with much less force), reducing the lines on the skin associated with muscle activity.
These injections therefore work best for ‘active lines’, the lines of expression, however they also soften static (ingrained) lines to some degree.
The longevity of the treatment varies between individuals, but treatments last on average between 12 and 20 weeks. Repeated treatments at intervals of 12 or more weeks further soften static lines, and many clients find the effects of the toxin last longer with repeated treatments.
‘WHICH AREAS CAN BE TREATED WITH BOTOX?:
Forehead
Reduce horizontal ‘surprise’ lines
Lateral canthal lines
Reduce ‘crows feet’ around the eyes
Glabella
Reduce ‘frown’ lines and subtly lift the eyebrows
Bunny lines
Reduce wrinkling of the nose when smiling
Downturned nose
Create a subtle upturn of the nose tip
Perioral lines
Reduce the appearance of ‘smokers lines’
Oral commissures
Reduce a downward pull on the mouth corners
Masseter muscles
Soften a harsh, masculine jaw profile
Nefertiti lift
Reduce the appearance of jowls and of neck banding
Is this treatment right for me?
If you are looking for a treatment to ‘refresh’ the face, turn back the clock by a few years and reduce the deepening of existing lines, line softening injections may well be your best option.
Before receiving the treatment you will be invited to undergo a thorough consultation, identifying your objectives and your suitability for the treatment.
There are very few contraindications to line softening injections, but you cannot receive a treatment if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or are suffering from a neuromuscular disorder.
There are very few known drug interactions with Botulinum Toxin, but a few do exist, so it will be essential for your practitioner to see a list of your current medication.