Men and women all come to a point in time where suddenly, their skin isn’t what it used to be. Taught and fresh-looking skin becomes drier, duller, and can no longer repair the daily damage – resulting in lines and wrinkles. If you’re wondering whether it’s time to do something about the aging process, you might ask, is botox right for me?
Keep in mind that Botox is one of many different treatments available for aging skin. There’s skincare that is preventative and will help slow the process. Radio-frequency treatments can help boost collagen production. You can try many procedures if you’re not ready to take the Botox plunge. However, if you feel that Botox might be the only solution for your aging skin, here are a few things to keep in mind about the procedure.
What is Botox and How Does It Work?
Botox is the formal name of botulinum toxin, which is produced by a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. This bacteria is found in nature – it exists in soil, plants, and even animal intestines. The bacteria blocks a neurotransmitter. Neurotransmitters typically release chemical messages to other parts of the body, like neurons, muscle cells, and gland cells. When the bacteria block the right neurotransmitter in Botox, it causes facial paralysis for a few months. Since the cells in the face are no longer functioning, they’re also no longer deteriorating, effectively slowing down the aging process.
Skin ages due to several factors. Mainly, the production of collagen and other proteins that help with elasticity drastically slows down. Additionally, your existing skin cells start to weaken and become misshapen. Free radicals, like chemicals in the air, cause damage to skin cells. When you’re young, your skin cells bounce back. As you get older, the cells stay compromised. These are the lines, wrinkles, and discoloration you start to see.
Is Botox Safe?
No procedure is 100 percent safe – and Botox is invasive. The injection itself can be painful at times, and you will feel pressure when the routine is performed. According to researchers, though, Botox is one of the safest invasive procedures out there. Less than one percent of recipients ever experience any adverse side effects.
If you have any safety concerns, you should always feel comfortable bringing them up with your doctor.
When to Start Using Botox
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), more than 7 million men and women are getting Botox every year. They also report that the age group seeking Botox is getting younger. But when is the best time to start trying to slow the aging process? Doctors say that there’s no set “best time,” but interested individuals should seek a consultation once they notice lines and wrinkles setting in.
The way skin ages depends heavily on genetics and the environment. Most people will notice lines on their face in their 20s, mostly when they make different expressions. Once the face relaxes, the lines will disappear. When those lines no longer disappear is the best time to start Botox treatments.
Botox Near Me
If you’re interested in starting anti-aging skincare treatments of any kind, call the friendly doctors at the Hillelson-Whipple Clinic and set up a consultation appointment today. We have a variety of procedures that may help you look and feel your best. Our doctors have more than 50 years of combined experience, and our office has five-star ratings from our clients. We proudly serve the Richmond, Virginia, area. Call us today and find out if Botox is right for you.