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Understanding the Science of How Botox Works with Bella Sante
At this point, the term “Botox” feels commonplace.
But Botox (derived from Botulinum toxin) is really part of a group called neuromodulators, which do more than soften frown lines and wrinkles as we’ve come to know them. For example, there’s also Dysport and Xeomin. A great non-surgical option, the effect of these neuromodulators includes softening fine lines and wrinkles and reducing chronic headaches and excessive sweating.
At Bella Sante, located in Saskatoon, our approach is to leave you feeling confident and empowered through highly specialized non-surgical treatments in a safe, physician-directed environment.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what neuromodulators are, using Botox as the prototype, how they work and what to expect at a Botox appointment.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox is a neuromodulator that modulates or modifies neural activity, as the name suggests. Specifically, Botox acts by blocking the neurotransmitter Acetylcholine’s (Ach) activity in a specific muscle region when injected. This allows Botox to be used for both cosmetic and medical purposes.
When injected into specific muscles, such as in the face, neck or even the palms, Botox prevents the release of Ach, which is implicated in muscle contraction. In effect, this temporarily paralyzes the muscle and results in muscle relaxation.
Due to repeated facial movements over time, dynamic wrinkles can change into static lines, common between the brows and around the forehead and eyes (crow’s feet).
Botox reverses the effects of these movements. This is how Botox works to minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
What Can Neuromodulators Be Used For?
Based on its mechanism of action, Botox needs to be administered by a professional in small and controlled doses. Botox can be used for a wide variety of conditions:
Reducing Face Wrinkles: Neuromodulators are often used to make wrinkles and fine lines on the face less noticeable. This includes:
Forehead wrinkles
Frown lines (Glabella or ‘elevens’)
Lines at the outer corners of the eyes (crow's feet)
Lines on the nose (Bunny lines)
Brow Lift: Neuromodulators can lift and shape the eyebrows, making you look more refreshed.
Gummy Smile: These injections can help if you show too much gum when you smile.
Softer Jaw: Neuromodulator injections can relax the jaw muscles, making a square jaw look softer. It can also help with teeth grinding and jaw clenching.
Neck Bands: Neuromodulators might be used to make lines on the neck less noticeable.
Less Sweating: They can be used under the arms, on palms, or on soles to stop excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis.
Migraine Relief: In some cases, neuromodulators can help prevent chronic migraines.
Muscle Spasms and Movement Disorders: Some neuromodulators are approved to treat muscle spasms and movement issues, like involuntary neck muscle contractions (dystonia), twitching eyelids (blepharospasm), and certain types of spasticity.
What To Expect at a Botox Appointment
During the consultation process, we discuss all of your options and concerns to discover if injectables are right for you. We will spend time discussing your goals and expectations before starting. Understanding your “why” will help you achieve your best outcomes.
How long does a Botox appointment take? Your Botox/Dysport/Xeomin appointment treatment will take anywhere between half an hour and an hour and a half, depending on the area(s) treated.
The first sight of neuromodulator results will be seen 2-3 days post-treatment, with full results at 2 weeks. The effect of Botox usually lasts 4 to 6 months, at which time another injection is required. After several treatments, the effects often begin to last longer.
Although post-care is different depending on the type of injectable you receive, most treatments allow you to return to your daily activities only hours after treatment.
Visit Us at Bella Sante
At Bella Sante, we understand the most common concern around injectables — “Will it look natural?” That’s why our team of highly skilled doctors and nurses will work with you to achieve the most natural results.
“Our results will leave you feeling confident and pleased with the decision you have made.”
After all, Dr. Jubin and her team of nurse injectors have had extensive training and experience injecting neuromodulators for cosmetic treatments.
Whether you’re ready to get started or would like further clarification on what would work best for you, you can book a consultation with us today.
You can also take special advantage of our financing option.
We look forward to speaking with you.