Ask Dr. Kirby: Botox 101

All your Botox questions, answered!

If you’ve been thinking about taking the Botox plunge, then look no further! LaserAway Chief Medical Officer Dr. Will Kirby helped us compile a comprehensive 101 on the topic. From what it is and how it works, to why people love it so much (hint: it’s not just for Hollywood A-listers!) you’ll find everything you need to make an informed decision about if this wrinkle-reducing injectable is right for you.

1. When should I start Botox?

The answer to this question depends on your clinical needs. To assess your own clinical need for Botox, look in the mirror at your relaxed face. If you see lines while you’re resting, then you’re a good candidate for Botox. If you move your face around, and you see deep lines, you can prevent those lines from getting worse by using Botox.

2. At what age should I get Botox?

Again, it’ll all depend on your clinical needs. Individuals ages 18 to 60 are all good candidates for Botox.

3. How long does Botox last?

It’s dose-dependent. Generally speaking, Botox will last two and a half to three and a half months. If it doesn’t last that long, then you didn’t get enough Botox. And if it’s lasting four or five months, then you got the right dose.
But you need to be careful — if you get too much Botox injected, then you’ll have no expressions at all. If you get too little Botox, then you’re not going to see a great clinical result. It’s a delicate balance!

4. How often do you need to do Botox?

It depends on how long the Botox lasts. Most people will need to get Botox three-to-four times a year to maintain results.

5. Is Botox preventative?

Botox is absolutely preventative. If you don’t have any wrinkles right now, you can get small doses of Botox periodically to lock in your current age. It’ll prevent you from developing deeper lines and wrinkles.

6. Is Botox only for old people?

Botox isn’t just for old people! It can be used preventatively so that you don’t develop deep wrinkles and lines, and it prevents signs of aging. You can also correct existing deep lines and wrinkles.

7. Are there alternatives to Botox?

Botox has the most brand name recognition. But there are multiple neuromodulators to choose from. You should discuss with a clinician which one is right for you. The truth is that they are all very similar and produce amazing results.

8. Is Botox safe and natural?

Botox is a synthetic derivative of a naturally occurring substance, the botulinum toxin. It is a natural product that has been tested for over 20 years, meaning Botox is safe. For a uniquely purified alternative, Xeomin offers the same age-defying results without any additional proteins.

10. Are there side effects to Botox?

Yes, but that’s true with any product you use. One of Botox’s side effects is that it hurts a little bit when injected, but Botox is usually well tolerated. There’s also a five-to-ten percent chance that you’ll experience some temporary bruising, but it’s nothing that makeup can’t cover-up.
The good news is that Botox is affordable, you only need it a few times a year, and it kicks in quickly. Results from Botox are noticeable as well.

11. If I get Botox, will I have a frozen face?

Absolutely not. If you get too much Botox, you’ll lose expression. But, if you get the right amount, no one else will notice you’ve had Botox. You’ll simply look like a more well-rested and slightly more youthful version of yourself.

12. Does Botox hurt?

Barely. Botox injections just involve a small needle and only a few little pricks. It’s usually very well-tolerated.

Ready to make your Botox dreams a reality?

If you’re interested in learning more about Botox or ready to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation to get started, contact the skincare experts at LaserAway. As the leader in aesthetic dermatology we’ve performed over 3 million treatments including included Botox, Xeomin and more! Better yet, our all our treatments are performed by registered nurses, nurse practitioners or physician associates with specialized injector training.