Injectables have been our version of Lord Voldemort—an antagonist that is never named and, of course, is constantly shamed. While Voldemort deserved all the hate, the bad rap that injectables have garnered over the years has been uncalled for to begin with. After all, everyone deserves to look good and feel good the way they please, right? Botox injections and fillers have historically been a taboo topic – not that there wasn’t a market, but thanks to the stigma surrounding it, nobody outright advocated for injectables.
Here's where the misconception comes to light. While these procedures may seem cosmetically driven, they also serve a lot of other health-related purposes that very few are aware of. Well, aesthetics or functionality, Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta, aesthetic physician and founder of ISAAC Luxe, dives into the world of injectables, taking us through everything we need to know about this once-hush-hush subject.
What are Botox injections?
What is Botox treatment? “Botox is a drug doctors have been using for years to treat wrinkles and facial creases. The injections are shots that use a toxin to prevent a muscle from moving for a limited period of time,” explains Dr Mittal Gupta. “While they are often used to smooth wrinkles on the face, they are also used to treat neck spasms, sweating, an overactive bladder, lazy eye, and other conditions. Botox shots may also help prevent migraines.” Clearly, the benefits of Botox go way beyond what one may choose to believe.
The shift in demand
In recent times, the demand for Botox and other minimally invasive injectables has seen a surge. According to Dr Mittal Gupta, there are three factors that contribute to this growth. Firstly, there is an increasing demand for minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, and Botox fit the bill, especially when it comes to reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Secondly, Botox’s therapeutic applications in treating chronic conditions have also contributed to its increased demand. Lastly, thanks to advancements in technology and increased awareness regarding Botox, people are more open to its benefits.
The Botox injection guide
How young is too young to invest in Botox? Dr Mittal Gupta reveals that while Botox is approved for 18 year olds and above, most experts would agree that those in their mid-20s to early 30s fit in the right age bracket for preventative Botox treatment.
The best way to proceed with the treatment is to ensure that you’re consulting a reputed and trusted aesthetics clinic and a trained practitioner. Basis the result you are looking at, set a goal and be sure of your medical choices. Do your research, ask questions, and be wary of the side effects, if any. “Consult a doctor for appropriate treatment according to your skin type and conditions,” she advises.
Precautionary measures before Botox:
#1: DON’T…drink alcohol. Doctors often advise that patients should avoid eating or drinking anything for 12 to 24 hours prior to the surgical procedure
#2: DON’T…drink coffee. You should also avoid coffee before Botox
#3: DON’T…use topical products
#4: DON’T…wax, bleach, or tweeze
#5: DON’T…take aspirin or blood-thinning medication
Busting Botox myths
Myth:
Botox is painful
Truth:
Tiny needles are used in Botox procedures, so patients end up experiencing only minor discomfort. The injection usually takes just about 10 minutes. “You can expect it to be less painful than a waxing treatment, and we can apply a topical numbing cream to minimise discomfort.”
Myth:
Botox only treats existing wrinkles
Truth:
It not only smoothens existing wrinkles, but also prevents new ones from forming. “Undergoing a Botox procedure every few months in your forehead, crow’s feet, and smile lines keep these wrinkle-causing muscles from moving.”
Myth:
You can see immediate results
Truth:
The results aren’t immediate but appear gradually over the days following treatment. “You can expect to see changes four days after your appointment, with the maximum results revealed in about two weeks.”
Myth:
It’s a lengthy procedure
Truth:
It’s a procedure that has zero downtime and can easily fit into your lunch break. “Most patients experience no visible side effects, so no one will even know you had a procedure done—unless you tell them.”
Myth:
It leaves you expressionless
Truth:
One of the biggest misconceptions of Botox is that it can leave you with a ‘frozen’ expression. It’s important to note that this only happens if improper dosing or injecting occurs as a result of having gone to an unskilled practitioner.
Common Botox mistakes:
#1 – Getting a massage
A massage or any pressure on your face after a Botox treatment can spread into other areas and impact those muscles unintentionally. Dr Mittal Gupta recommends waiting at least one week before scheduling a massage.
#2 – Rigorous exercise
While it is a short procedure, it is recommended to avoid exercise on the day of your treatment as it could increase bruising.
#3 – Starting with too much
The amount required varies with each person but the expert advises that less is always more when it comes to injectables. Start with a low number of units to see how the skin responds, and more can always be added later.
#4 – Drinking alcohol
Remember, alcohol thins your blood and dries out your skin. To avoid bruising, don’t consume alcohol for at least 48 hours before your treatment.
#5 – Not testing for allergies
Cow’s milk protein (albumin) is used to make Botox. Therefore, if you’re allergic to it, it’s best to avoid the procedure. This allergy, however, is not the same as lactose intolerance — Botox is fine with those that are just lactose intolerant.
Meet the expert:
Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta is a celebrity aesthetics doctor, widely renowned for holistic skincare and her non-surgical, anti-ageing skin treatments.
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