Botox is becoming increasingly mainstream; however, it does not last very long in some circumstances. While most people use it as a way to combat the signs of ageing it can also be used as a way to reduce underarm perspiration and migraines, an aid in muscular disorders, and more. Whichever way you plan to use Botox, the length of its effectiveness will vary greatly in each person and each scenario.
Safety of Botox
While Botox is considered a safe injection for most people for any intended use and FDA approved, it is a medical treatment to be administered by a certified and trained medical professional only. It is also a considered a poison that you are voluntarily injecting into your body; therefore, is not without potential side effects. Such side effects might include:
- Bleeding
- Blurred Vision or Double Vision
- Drooping Eyelids
- Diminished Eyesight
- Dry Mouth
- Fatigue
- Gallbladder Complications
- Headache
- Hives
- Nausea
- Neck Weakness
- Rashes
- Swelling
- Wheezing
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons announced that in 2015, roughly 6.5 million procedures of Botox were performed. Despite the potential for minor side effects, the process clearly provides great results in an overwhelmingly large number of people and remains a highly safe procedure when performed by qualified professionals. Keep in mind that not all doctors are trained and certified to perform Botox injections. Just because someone is a doctor does not mean they have been properly trained in administering injections. In most states and provinces, all medical doctors are legally allowed to perform the action; however, they may not be specifically trained in the practice. It might be wise to ask the medical professional who is going to temporarily paralyze your face about their training pertaining specifically to injecting Botox before you begin. It is commonly recommended to only use a plastic surgeon, otolaryngologist, or a dermatologist for the most superior results.
Is One Month Normal?
The average Botox injection will last between three to six months when properly administered. A number of reasons could cause an injection to last only one month. One of the most common reasons could be that the dosage provided was not strong enough. This could be the results of an inexperienced medical professional, going to a Botox party with untrained professionals using diluted solutions, the vial might be expired, it could be a fake solution, or you might simply not take well to Botox. It is important to note that Botox does not work the same for everyone. It is absolutely possible that your body could resist Botox entirely. Everyone will react differently, and the reason for a short injection cycle will also be different. To maximize your turnaround time, use only properly trained medical professionals and look at the vial yourself before the procedure to ensure it is not expired and that it does not appear to have been tampered. If you have a strong natural resistance to Botox, you might just have to accept the one-month injections in the long term.
Botox Alternatives for Wrinkles
Because the intent of Botox is to minimize or eliminate wrinkles, at least temporarily, in the skin, a number of alternative recommendations have been made by medical professionals that can assist with similar results. Firstly, of course, is to always use sunscreen and to wear wide-brim hats in the sun to prevent premature ageing of the skin. Secondly, eat as many fruits and vegetables as possible and drink plenty of water each day. The less chemicals you put into your body from food and drink the better off it will be. Thirdly, regular exercise will also help keep your skin looking youthful. And, lastly, use products that are considered facial fillers to aid in replacing and replenishing collagen. If you use reputable brands and products with ingredients such as Vitamin B5 and Hyaluronic amongst others. You can also receive injectable fillers, as well.
According to world-renown and highly regarded plastic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel, choosing between fillers and Botox greatly depends upon the individual and the desired results. If you wish to attack wrinkles that run deep and appear more dynamically with facial expressions, Botox may be a more effective solution. If you are more considered with the wrinkles that appear even when your face is motionless, fillers might better suit your needs. If you do choose Botox, remember that it should last more than one month in most cases.
Sources:
- http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/botox-injected-by-unlicensed-practitioners-1.1132235
- http://healthycanadians.gc.ca/drugs-products-medicaments-produits/buying-using-achat-utilisation/medical-procedures-medicales/cosmetics-injectable-cosmetiques-eng.php
- http://www.webmd.com/beauty/cosmetic-procedures-botox
- http://www.shape.com/latest-news-trends/how-choose-who-will-administer-your-botox
- http://greatist.com/live/botox-injections-why-more-20-somethings-are-getting-them
- http://www.drspiegel.com/2013/02/what-is-the-difference-between-botox-and-facial-fillers-2/