In short: It’s normal to be scared. But Botox is safe.
How Botox Works
Unlike biorevitalization, where hyaluronic acid is injected into the dermis (the deep layers of the skin), Botox injections are administered into the muscle. Botulinum toxin blocks nerve signals that normally make our muscles contract. The muscle relaxes and stays still, which smooths out wrinkles. The effect appears a few days after the injection, peaks in the second or third week, and gradually diminishes after four to five months. The duration depends on the injection area, dosage, and type of product used.
Botox injections do not have a cumulative effect. A few months after the procedure, the muscles become mobile again, and the wrinkles reappear. Botulinum toxin works on deep expression lines – those that form when we frown, laugh, squint, and furrow our brows. One of the most popular areas for Botox injections is around the eyes, where crow’s feet are, the glabellar lines (between the eyebrows), the forehead muscles, and the area around the mouth. Botox does not work on fine lines caused by dryness or photodamage. BTW, I love Botox and use it freely (but not during pregnancy or breastfeeding).
When to Get It
There is no exact age when you should start or “need” to get Botox – it depends on your individual facial structure and personal preference. However, cosmetologists generally agree that Botulinum toxin type A is effective between the ages of 20 to 45, sometimes up to 50 years. For people over 50, Botox type A correction is not recommended due to muscle fiber degradation and the risk of the product migrating to other areas. Also, “preventive” Botox at a young age is a waste of money.
Important: The effect of the injection will be maximal only if the dermal layer of the skin has not yet been affected (that’s why, in my opinion, waiting until you’re 40 to start getting Botox is not ideal – it will be harder to achieve the desired effect). You can check if a wrinkle has become dermal: gently stretch the skin fold across – if the crease disappears when stretched, it’s superficial, and Botox injections will be most effective.
What Are the Risks
Botox injections are considered a safe and well-tolerated procedure. Possible side effects include redness or bruising at the injection site, watery eyes, mild cold symptoms, and headaches. These usually resolve within a few days. Less commonly, significant ptosis (drooping) of the eyelids may occur, which can affect vision. This unpleasant side effect will subside as the Botox effect wears off over a few months.
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