The Botox treatment has become a mainstream cosmetic treatment done by millions of men and women over the years to keep wrinkles at bay.
For those that have not tried it yet and are considering the Botox treatment, we created a comprehensive Ultimate Guide to the Botox Treatment to answer all of the Botox questions you may have about the treatment.
About Botox
What is Botox?
Botox (Botulinum toxin) or Botox Cosmetic is a wrinkle relaxer that is FDA approved to treat moderate to severe lines such as crow’s feet and forehead lines.
What is Botox made from?
Botox is made of bacteria called Clostridium botulinum that is found in nature as well as in the intestinal tracts of certain fish and animals.
How does Botox work?
Botox cosmetic works by targeting and weakening the muscles that are used when smiling, frowning, squinting, and raising your eyebrows.
How was Botox created?
Botox was originally created to help people with muscle spasms of the eye lids, lazy eye and those that had crossed eyes.
Who invented Botox?
Dr. Alan Scott, an Ophthalmologist first discovered what is now known as Botox and later sold the rights to Allergan in 1991.
When was Botox approved for aesthetic treatments?
Botox became FDA approved in 2002.
What are the FDA approved areas for Botox Cosmetic?
Botox cosmetic is FDA approved to treat frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines.
How long is a Botox treatment?
A typical Botox treatment only takes about 10 minutes.
Who can perform a Botox treatment?
A Botox treatment should be administered by a licensed and trained Physician, Nurse Practitioner, or Registered Nurse.
Where can I get Botox treatments?
Botox treatments are done in a clinical setting such as a Doctor’s office or a Medical Spa.
Where can I get Botox in Bucks County, PA?
Healthy Solutions Medspa offers Botox treatments in Bucks County and the surrounding areas of Montgomery and Philadelphia County. Read some of Healthy Solutions Medspa Botox reviews here.
The Botox Treatment
Botox can treat many areas and conditions such as relaxing wrinkles, neck spasms, treat migraines, bladder issues, excessive sweating, and foot and leg pain. Botox cosmetic is FDA approved for moderate to severe lines on the forehead and crows’ feet. There are other areas that are treated with Botox “off label” such as the platismal bands on the neck (also called tech neck), above the lips, corner of the lips, and masseter.
Can Botox lift eyebrows?
Yes. A Botox treatment can elevate the height of your eyebrows.
Can Botox fix uneven eyebrows and asymmetry?
Yes. Botox can correct eyebrow asymmetry by lifting the eyebrow.
Is the Botox treatment painful?
Most people feel that the Botox treatment is not that painful. The Botox treatment requires tiny needle injections that most people say feels like a pinch.
Do you get anesthesia before Botox?
No. Most people find the treatment comfortable, and an ice pack is given post treatment to reduce any post injection site swelling.
Do you get numbing cream before Botox?
Botox is typically done without numbing cream.
How long does Botox last in forehead?
Results can last from 3-4 months.
How should I prepare for a Botox treatment?
Make sure to tell your Botox provider if you have any plans to have surgery, had recent surgery on your face, if you have trouble raising your eyebrows, if you have drooping eyelids or if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your Doctor if you had Botox within the last than 4 months.
Botox Results
Are Botox results instant?
No. Botox is not an instant treatment. It takes a few days for you to start seeing results. Optimum results will be seen in 7-10 days after your treatment.
When will I start to see my Botox results?
You may start to notice smoothing of wrinkle lines within 24 to 48 hours with optimum results in 10-14 days.
How long does Botox last?
Botox results last up to 4 months.
Is Botox permanent?
No. Botox is not a permanent treatment. Treatment results can last about 3 to 4 months.
What happens when Botox wears off?
Your wrinkles slowly start to reappear as Botox wears off.
Can Botox be reversed?
Botox can not be reversed or dissolved. It is a temporary treatment that will wear off between 3-4 months.
Botox Cost
Is Botox expensive?
Botox is an affordable treatment. A treatment can start at $100.
How much is Botox?
Botox can range from $200-$600 depending on how many areas you want to get treated and your Botox provider’s price per unit or price per treatment area.
How much is Botox per unit?
Botox typically can range from $10 – $15 per unit. It can range depending on the experience of the Clinician and the local market rate.
How much is Botox in your forehead?
The recommended treatment for Botox on the forehead can range in price between $100-$300. Some people may need 10 units, while others may require 20 units as each person’s facial expression and level of movement is different. The amount of units may differ in each patient depending on age, strength of facial expression muscles, previous history of treatments and desired treatment outcome.
How much is Botox for eyes?
Botox treatment for the eyes refers to the crow’s feet area. This area requires between 12 and 24 units of Botox that can range from $120-$360. The amount of units may differ in each patient depending on age, strength of facial expression muscles, previous history of treatments and desired treatment outcome.
How much is Botox for 11 lines?
Botox treatments for the 11 lines, also called the frown lines or glabellar can require 20 units of Botox. This treatment area can range from $200-$300. The number of units may differ in each patient depending on age, strength of facial expression muscles, previous history of treatments and desired treatment outcome.
How much is Botox for lips?
Botox for lips is a treatment to treat gummy lines or to do what is called a lip flip. The lip flip treatment can range from $50 – $100 and up.
How much is Botox for crow’s-feet?
The crow’s-feet can require between 12 and 24 units depending on the patient. This treatment can range from $120 to $360. The on label treatment for crow’s feet is 24 units. The number of units may differ in each patient depending on age, strength of facial expression muscles, previous history of treatments and desired treatment outcome.
How much is Botox for an eyebrow lift?
A Botox eyebrow lift requires about 4-8 units of Botox and costs between $40 and $120.
Is it ok to buy Botox on Groupon?
Beware of buying Botox on Groupon as you do not know if the facility will be giving you real or expired Botox. Also, you may be getting treatments from a provider who doesn’t have much experience injecting and thus they are discounting the treatment to get more hands-on training. You always want to select an injector with experience and one that has a great reputation.
How to save on Botox or find a Botox special?
To save on your Botox treatments, we recommend signing up for the Alle Rewards Program. This program notifies you via email of any Botox offers, Botox rebates, Botox coupons, and savings towards future Botox treatments. The best part about it is its Free! You also earn points every time you get a Botox, Filler, Kybella, or Coolsculpting treatment that can be used towards your next Botox appointment or other qualified treatment.
How do I calculate my Botox treatment?
You can use our Botox calculator here to see approximately how much your Botox treatment will cost:
Units of Botox
How many units of Botox do I need?
The number of units needed for a Botox treatment depends on how many areas you want to get treated. For example, the frown lines or the 11-line area between the eyes and above the nose require 20 units of Botox and can range from $200-$300.
How much does 20 units of Botox cost?
20 Units of Botox can range between $200 and $300.
How much does 50 units of Botox cost?
50 Units of Botox can range between $500 and $750.
Is 50 units of Botox too much?
For people wanting to get a few areas treated with Botox such as crow’s feet, forehead and frown lines, purchasing 50 units of Botox is not too much.
Safety and Risks with Botox
How safe is Botox cosmetic?
Botox is FDA approved. There has been more than 16 years of research and studies published in 528 peer-reviewed scientific journals and articles. Botox or Clostridium botulinum bacterium is a toxin causing paralysis but when used for cosmetic purposes by a licensed and trained clinician in small quantities is safe and effective. Botox is also FDA approved.
Is there a risk with getting Botox?
The Botox treatment is safe when performed by an experienced injector. Some side effects that may present but are rare are swelling or bruising at the injection site or pain. Some people that get Botox feel like they have a headache. Other risks include droopy eye lid, uneven or “spock” eyebrows, dry eyes or tearing of the eyes.
What are the side effects of Botox?
Botox side effects may include itching, rash, wheezing, asthma symptoms, or dizziness, feeling faint, dry mouth; discomfort or pain at the injection site; tiredness; headache; neck pain; and eye problems: double vision, or blurred vision.
How long will I bruise after Botox?
Not everyone bruises after their Botox treatment. But bruising can occur. If you do, get small bruising at the injection site, it can last up to 10 days. You can cover bruises with makeup. It is recommended to stop taking fish oil or other blood thinning supplements and medications like aspirin a week before your Botox treatment to minimize bruising post treatment. You can take Arnica or Vitamin K to reduce bruising time.
Is Botox bad for your health?
No. There have been many studies done to show the safety of Botox cosmetic treatments and Botox side effects are rare.
Is Botox bad for you long term?
Botox, when treated long term has been found to weaken the muscles which may cause you to need less Botox over time. Also, skin on the forehead may appear thinner where Botox was treated. There is also have been reports of mild discoloration but is rare.
Can you smile after getting Botox?
Yes, as long as you have the treatment done with an experienced Botox injector. However, if your injector gives you too much Botox, there is a possibility to have a “frozen” look.
Can you get Botox with other procedures on the same day?
You can receive certain treatments prior to your Botox treatment or on the same day such as the Hydrafacial or Dermal Fillers. Certain treatments are not recommended doing the same day. It’s best to get a consultation to find out which treatment you can get done on the same day.
Can you exercise after your Botox treatment?
It is not recommended to break a sweat or workout for at least 24 hours after your treatment.
How long can side effects of Botox last?
If you experience any side effects of Botox, they typically last about 24-48 hours.
What does it feel like when Botox first starts to work?
Most people feel nothing when their Botox starts to work. Some people feel a bit heavy and tight in the treatment area.
Will I still be able to make facial expressions?
Yes. Botox, when done correctly allows you to make facial expressions such as smiling, laughing, and raising your eyebrows without the wrinkles. Some patients desire less movement than others. Your provider can review your goals with you.
Can you get Botox when Pregnant?
No, it is not recommended to get Botox if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Can you get Botox when you are Breastfeeding?
No, it is not recommended to get Botox if you are Breastfeeding.
What should I avoid before a Botox treatment?
Avoid fish oil and blood-thinning medications such as Aspirin or Ibuprofen as they may cause you to bruise after treatment.
Avoid drinking alcohol 24 hours prior to your treatment to minimize bruising. Avoid making a Botox appointment right before a major event. You should give yourself at least 2 weeks before a special event. This will give you plenty of time to heal and allow you to come in for a follow up appointment in case you need a touch up.
What should I avoid after a Botox treatment?
Avoid rubbing or pressing on your face for 24 hours after your Botox treatment to avoid migration to other areas. Avoid exercise for at least 24 hours after your Botox treatment. Avoid saunas, sweating, or intense heat. Avoid wearing a hat or headband right after the treatment.
What is the aftercare for Botox?
You can wash your face gently after your Botox treatment. Be sure not to put too much pressure or massage the treated area. Avoid heat, sweating, and exercising for 24 hours after your treatment.
Can anyone get a Botox treatment?
Both men and women of ages 21 and over can benefit from Botox treatments. Many people in their 20’s have started to get treatments earlier than their older counterparts for preventive reasons. Botox is not recommended if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should avoid getting Botox if you have a skin infection. It is best to get a consultation to see if Botox is right for you.
How do I know that I’m getting real Botox?
Select a reputable and authorized physician provider from the Botox find a physician directory and ask to see the Botox vial during your treatment. The Botox vial will have the Botox logo and a holographic image that says Botox on it. If it does not, it is not real Botox.
What if my Botox looks uneven?
If you notice that your Botox treatment such as the eyebrows look uneven, don’t panic. This can easily be fixed at your provider’s office. He or she will add a few more units of Botox to even out your treatment.
Combining Botox with Other Treatments
Microblading and Botox – which should I do first?
Some technicians recommend doing microblading before Botox treatments so that your eyebrows are created before your Botox treatment. You should wait at least 2 weeks after microblading your eyebrows to get your Botox treatment.
Can I get microneedling done with Botox?
It is recommended to have microneedling done at least 2 weeks after your Botox treatment.
Can I get a chemical peel post Botox treatment?
It is recommended to wait at least 2 weeks before doing a chemical peel after receiving an injectable treatment.
Can I get a laser treatment after my Botox?
You should wait at least 2 weeks before getting any laser treatments done on your face after receiving a Botox treatment.
Can I get a facial after my Botox treatment?
No. It is not recommended to get a facial after Botox to avoid massaging the treatment area. You should wait at least a week to get a facial post Botox.
Can I get a massage after my Botox treatment?
No. It is not recommended to get a massage after your Botox treatment. You should wait at least a week to get a massage after Botox. Laying down for the first four hours after treatment is not recommended, putting pressure on your face and massaging the forehead is not recommended post Botox
Botox Alternatives
What is an alternative treatment to Botox?
For those looking for alternative treatments to Botox may opt for wrinkle reduction creams or retinols, allergy medications for bags under the eyes, chemical peels to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, laser resurfacing treatments, microneedling, dermal fillers for wrinkles such as Juvederm or Restylane, or surgery.
Botox vs. Facelift
A facelift requires surgery and can last 10 years or more. Botox is a temporary wrinkle relaxing treatment that needs to be maintained with treatments every four months. Unlike a facelift, Botox treatments do not require anesthesia. In addition, there is no major downtime such as swelling or bruising after a Botox treatment that there is with a facelift.
What is the difference between Botox and Fillers?
Botox and fillers are not the same thing. Botox relaxes wrinkles while filler fill in lines and other sunken areas of the face. Fillers are used to fill, lift and add volume to cheeks, lips, and around the mouth.
What should I do first, Botox or Fillers?
Botox and Dermal Fillers are often used together to rejuvenate the face. It’s best to get a consultation to see if Botox, Fillers or both are right for you.
Related: Dermal Fillers
Botox vs. Dysport vs. Xeomin vs. Jeuveau vs. Daxxify
Which Botox is the best?
There is only one Botox but there are other similar neurotoxins on the market called Dysport, Xeomin Jeuveau and the newest on the market Daxxify.
What is the difference between Botox and Dysport?
Botox was FDA approved in 2002 and was the first neurotoxin used for cosmetic purposes. Botox Cosmetic treats moderate to severe lines on the forehead and crows’ feet.
Dysport is a prescription injection for temporary improvement of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines). It was FDA approved in 2009 in the United States. Dysport may act quicker in some patients than Botox in seeing results. The biggest difference between Botox and Dysport is the quantity of units needed due to the potency of Dysport. Dysport requires 2-3 units to 1 unit of Botox so if an area requires 25 units of Botox, you may need 50 plus units of Dysport. While Dysport maybe cheaper than Botox, the quantity of units of Dysport physicians need to use is more than Botox and thus there is not a big difference in price. In addition, Dysport has been shown to drift more than Botox causing relaxation of neighboring muscles. Unlike other toxins, Dysport contains cow milk protein and therefore cannot be used for those that are allergic to milk.
What is the difference between Botox and Xeomin?
XEOMIN® is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles and used to improve the look of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines) in adults for a short period of time (temporary). FDA approved in 2011 in the United States. The cost of Xeomin is about the same as Botox and the number of units needed for treatment is the same as Botox. Xeomin is said to have a slower onset at day 4 vs Botox is 72 hours. It is a pure form of botulinum toxin and can be used for patients with resistance build up to other toxins.
What is the difference between Botox and Jeuveau?
Jeuveau™ is the newest neurotoxin also know in the market as Newtox. The prabotulinumtoxinA-xvfs injection is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles and used to improve the look of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines). FDA approved in 2019. Jeuveau can cost less than Botox but with Botox running promotions, they typically are similar in price. While Botox is approved for therapeutic and cosmetic treatments such aseyelid spasms, severe underarm sweating, migraines, overactive bladder, pediatric upper limb spasticity, and relaxing wrinkles, Jeuveau is only approved for cosmetic purposes. Since Botox has been on the market the longest, there are more clinical safety studies than Jeuveau.
What is the difference between Botox and Daxxify?
The main difference between the treatments is how long the treatment lasts. Daxxify results last longer than Botox, typically 2 times longer than Botox. The price of Daxxify also costs more than Botox.
Which neurotoxin is right for you?
It is best to discuss all your options with a physician during your consultation.
More on Botox…
Does Botox improve your mood?
Yes. A study done in 2009 showed that Botox used in the forehead improved mood due to reduced frowning.
Do Men get Botox?
Yes. Men and Women get Botox. More men are getting Botox now. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in their 2018 Plastic Surgery Report there was a 381% increase in men getting Botox since 2000.
What is Brotox?
It is a term used for men getting Botox.
What is Baby Botox?
It’s a term used for a smaller amount of Botox injected or less than the amount that is recommended for the area. It doesn’t last as long as a recommended treatment of 4 months. It may last about 2 months.
What is a Botox Party?
A Botox party is when a group of 5 or more plan to get Botox treatments done at the same time in a casual atmosphere. The hostess that plans the party and her friends usually get discounted Botox treatments. It’s best to have these in a medical setting and not at someone’s house. 
How many people have received Botox treatments?
In 2018, The American Society of Plastic Surgeons estimated that more than seven million people received botulinum toxin injections in 2018.
Botox Before & After Photo:
^Individual results may vary.
If you enjoyed reading this, share it! You may also enjoy reading “Brotox: Botox for Men” and “Which Products & Treatments Are Right For Aging Skin?”
If you are looking for Botox near me or a reputable Botox provider in Bucks County, PA, schedule a consultation at Healthy Solutions Medspa.
