Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Botox?
Botox is a brand belonging to a group of medications that are categorized as neuromodulators. There are 4 Health Canada approved neuromodulators and they are as follows: Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Nuceiva. Botox is the very commonly known brand name used interchangeably, as it was the first to be approved for cosmetic use, but they all work very similarly.
Neuromodulators (also referred to neurotoxins) work by blocking nerve signals that would otherwise cause movement such as frowning or squinting. When injected into the muscle, it temporarily paralyzes it reducing the movement, so we are not causing or deepening those wrinkles. Results typically last 3-4 months but are patient specific and can vary.
What is Dermal Filler?
Dermal filler is a substance used to replace volume, build structure and hydrate. For instance, hyaluronic acid is the most common filler used, and is naturally produced in our bodies! However, we metabolize our hyaluronic acid at a much faster rate than we metabolized the man-made hyaluronic acid. It is a gel-like substance, ranging in viscosities used for different areas of the face and body. Hyaluronic acid longevity can range anywhere from 6-18 months. Results are patient specific and can vary.
Does it hurt?
A topical, local anaesthetic is applied to numb the area. Typically this is used for dermal fillers as injections can go as deep as onto the bone. I do not usually use a topical anaesthetic for Botox treatments as most clients feel nothing at all, or say they feel only minimal discomfort for a brief moment. However, if you prefer the topical anaesthetic, just let me know and it can be applied for your comfort.
How can I make my filler last?
๐๐ณ๐ฐ๐ต๐ฆ๐ค๐ต: Good skincare is VERY important. Always protect your skin by using SPF. Skincare is important to insure your investment of Botox and fillers.
๐๐บ๐ฅ๐ณ๐ข๐ต๐ช๐ฐ๐ฏ: Hyaluronic acid is hydrophilic so it draws in water! Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and high sodium content to help extend the life of your treatments. Eat nutrient rich foods.
๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฌ๐ช๐ฏ๐จ: Smoking is not only unhealthy for our heart and lungs, but it is also very damaging to our skin. The chemicals in tobacco increase the break down of collagen and elastin. It also narrows blood vessels leading to reduced oxygen flow to skin cells and can delay healing.
๐๐น๐ฆ๐ณ๐ค๐ช๐ด๐ฆ: Now Iโm not saying not to exercise, but exercise typically increases your metabolism and a faster metabolism doesnโt discriminate on what to metabolize! Excessive exercise can break down your Botox and filler much faster than the average healthy recommended amount.
๐๐ญ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐ฑ: Yes, sleep. Rest affects us rather fairly but itโs not just the amount of REM we get, it is also how we sleep. Avoid sleeping on your face; stomach and side sleeping can put pressure on your face, increasing the chance of wrinkles and the chance to migrate filler.
Before and after care:
Please avoid alcohol, fish oils, vitamin E, St Johnโs Wort, and nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAID) such as Advil, Aspirin, Aleve and Motrin 72 hours before and after your treatment. These can all increase your bleeding and risk of bruising. Gently apply a cool compress the area to relieve swelling. Tylenol can be taken to alleviate discomfort. Applications of arnica gel or tablets can be taken to alleviate the pain, swelling and bruising.
Avoid laying down 4-6 hours after your botox treatment. No exercise for 24 hours, do not manipulate the area, do not apply makeup for 12 hours. Please use clean brushes and/or sponges before applying makeup and sanitized or new lip balm after lip injections.