When signs of aging in the form of fine lines or wrinkles appear, there are a few different treatments you can get to reduce them. Botox is a simple and gentle way to reduce wrinkles on the face and prevent new ones from appearing. It’s a trendy cosmetic procedure, and for instance, in Canada, statistics show that it’s one of the most researched procedures.

Botox is a naturally purified protein injected into the skin that temporarily relaxes the muscles that cause wrinkles. The treatment gives a smooth and rejuvenated look.

It’s the name of a medicine and not a treatment, as many believe. Other products fulfill the same function, but this is the most common one. Botox isn’t only used to remove wrinkles but can also be effective against ailments such as migraines and extreme sweating. When it comes to treating wrinkles, it’s mainly used for the forehead and wrinkles around the eyes.

If you’re eager to do a Botox treatment, your priority should be to find a professional and serious provider, but you should also prepare yourself by learning what to do before and after treatment.

To get the maximum benefits from your Botox treatment, below we share a mini-guide for first-time users.

Before

First-Time Consultation

As with any other procedure, we must underline the importance of finding a reliable provider that will make you feel comfortable and match your aesthetic. A certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon will help you understand how they work and ensure that whatever you want to get done is right for you, they will look at your medical history, and do a physical exam.

For this reason, one of the first important steps you should take before getting Botox is to look for a professional provider. For example, if you live in a bigger city like Toronto, CA, search for the best Botox clinic in Toronto and book a consultation.

Doctors at the clinic will study your face, better understand your facial structure, assess the function of the muscles, and see where to place the Botox.

Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Once you agree to do the Botox treatment, you must prepare yourself and follow certain guidelines to help you get the most from your treatment and avoid complications. One week before your appointment, make sure not to take anti-inflammatory medications. It is estimated that you’ll be able to enjoy the results within 4-5 days and see less prominent facial lines. 

By avoiding anti-inflammatory medications for one week before the Botox injections, you will avoid potential bruising and discoloration. If anti-inflammatory medications are medically necessary for you, then you should discuss this with your provider during your initial consultation so they can plan your care accordingly.

Don’t Drink Wine

Botox gives a more youthful appearance with subtle and natural results but there’s one factor that can prevent you from benefiting from Botox’s effects, and that is facial bruising. It’s important to know that drinking wine, especially red wine, increases the chances of bruising following Botox treatment. Therefore, make sure to give up wine for at least seven days before getting your injections.

Don’t Consume Garlic

Consuming garlic ahead of your Botox treatment increases your chances of bruising so patients are advised to avoid foods that contain garlic for one week before the procedure.

Although garlic isn’t recommended, there is still one remedy that doctors suggest to be added to Botox patients’ routine. That remedy is arnica which is a natural herb that helps minimize bruising following treatment.

After

To ensure that the results of the Botox treatment last as long as possible, you should follow certain guidelines during the first weeks after your treatment and avoid unnecessary side effects.

No Make-Up and Sun Exposure

You should avoid touching the treated area and using make-up one day after the treatment to avoid irritating the area and reducing the risk of infection.

You should avoid direct sunlight for the first 24 to 48 hours. When outdoors, use sunscreen with a high SPF and preferably a cap that covers your treated area.

Don’t Work Out

You should avoid exercising and using the sauna for 48 hours as sweat and exertion can affect the results of the treatment and cause swelling.

Keep in mind to also avoid pressure, such as massage or facials, on the treated area for a week.

Final Thoughts

Botox is the top nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in the world and if you’re considering getting one, you must choose the right certified provider to make a Botox plan as every face is unique.

What’s most important is to adhere to general before and after treatment guidelines to get the most from your Botox procedure and enjoy a more youthful appearance.