Getting Botox is as common as getting a manicure for many people, but are you using this neuromodulator to its maximum capacity? Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care offers a variety of ways to make the most of this injectable because it can do a lot more than stop wrinkles. Botox temporarily freezes targeted muscles, and while this does indeed stop lines and wrinkles in their tracks, it’s a multi-use product that can help you achieve more of your skin goals quickly. For starters, more and more younger patients are using Botox preventatively. Let’s take a look at the diversity of Botox and how it can serve you.
1. Botox for prevention. What causes lines and wrinkles in the first place? There are a few factors, including skin laxity due to collagen loss, but simple repetitive movements are also to blame. Many wrinkles, such as the “angry elevens” between the brows, are typically caused by muscles being used repetitively. When we furrow our brow, eventually lines will form there—it’s the same as when we lift weights, muscles simply get stronger with use. This means we can also keep them still and “weak,” thus training them not to create such lines in the first place. Botox for prevention can begin as soon as your early 20s. Sticking to this regimen can help you avoid more aggressive procedures for several years.
2. Botox for a lip flip. The lip flip does not use a dermal filler, though it can mimic the look of one. A lip flip requires the injection of very small amounts of Botox along the upper lip line. It relaxes these muscles to soften a gummy smile, “flipping” the lip outward to mimic the appearance of a fuller lip. However, keep in mind that Botox for a lip flip only lasts about three months on average (compared to six months at other injection sites). However, if you want to experiment with a fuller upper lip before committing to a lip filler, a lip flip can be a fantastic solution.
3. Botox for excessive sweating. Have you noticed that you are sweating out of your holiday sweaters? Botox has long been an effective means of stopping excessive sweating and can be injected into virtually any part of the body. Just like it freezes muscles, it can also affect the process that causes sweating.
4. Botox for an eyebrow lift. If you’ve previously had Botox injections in the forehead for wrinkles, maybe your provider has talked about using it as a temporary lift. Similar to a lip flip, when Botox is injected at precise locations above the brow, it can provide a subtle lifting effect. This is ideal for those who simply want a higher arch than what they were born with or for those who are seeing the early signs of a necessary surgical brow lift in the future.
5. Botox for migraines. Studies have shown that Botox injected at key points in the temples is effective at preventing and stopping migraines. You may experience this benefit if you already desire Botox in this area. While this is a medical injection rather than a cosmetic one, it is a benefit to keep in mind. Also, recent studies have shown that, similarly, Botox can be helpful in aiding symptoms of depression.
When you combine Botox with other treatments, such as fillers and Kybella, you can take your results to the next level. The majority of fillers are made with a synthetic version of hyaluronic acid (HA), an acid that already occurs in the body, and yield immediate results. Kybella uses a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, another acid that occurs in the body, and dissolves fat in the submental area that causes a double chin. You only need one appointment for Botox and filler injections (with results lasting 6 – 12 months on average), but Kybella requires a series of around 4 – 6 sessions spaced one month apart for optimal results.
To find out more about Botox benefits or to book your appointment, contact Palo Alto Laser and Skin Care today. Call our office during business hours or simply complete the online contact form right now.