Does Botox Hurt? Everything You Need to Know About Botox

Few cosmetic treatments have become as popular as Botox.

It first hit the scene in 1989, but only for therapeutic use. In 2002, the FDA approved Botox for cosmetic use, and since then, the Botox market has been booming. According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, over 7 million people get treatments annually. 

Despite Botox’s popularity, you may still have some questions. Does Botox hurt? How long does Botox last, and what will it cost me? Read on, and we’ll answer those questions and more.  

What Is Botox? 

First things first, what the heck is Botox anyway? Botox is a specific name brand for Botulinum toxin, which is derived from C. botulinum bacteria. This bacteria is found in soil, lakes, and even the digestive tracts of some animals. 

The naturally occurring bacteria starts out harmless. It’s only when the spores start to change, and the cell population grows that the bacteria start to produce Botulinum toxin. Botulinum is a neurotoxin that can be quite deadly. 

Some scientists have estimated a single gram of the crystalline form of Botulinum could kill one million people and that a couple of kilograms could wipe out most of the population. You may be familiar with Botulism, which is a kind of food poisoning and the Botulinum toxin’s work.

Before you write off Botox, rest assured there is no need to be concerned. When applied correctly by a medical professional, Botox is actually quite safe and effective for many medical issues and cosmetic concerns. 

What Does Botox Do?

Botulinum is a neurotoxin, which means it targets the nervous system. It does this by blocking the signals the body sends to move certain muscles.

The Botox injections that people have come to love contain tiny amounts of the Botulinum toxin. Once injected, the toxin goes to work. Over the course of a few days to a week, it paralyzes the muscles around the injection site.

This effect is what makes it so suitable for addressing facial wrinkles; say goodbye to crow’s feet and frown lines! Botox also helps treat muscle spasms, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), and even migraines.

Botox Applications

Botox is used for both cosmetic and medical purposes. Here are the most common reasons people get Botox treatments;

• wrinkles between the eyebrows (frown lines, glabellar lines, or elevens)
• wrinkles around the eyes (crow’s feet)
• horizontal creases in the forehead
• lines at the corners of the mouth
• “cobblestone” skin on the chin

On the medical side of things, doctors use the Botulinum toxin to treat various conditions that impact the neuromuscular system. There are some age restrictions for these treatments. They include:

• upper limb spasticity
• crossed eyes, or strabismus
• severe underarm sweating (also called hyperhidrosis)
• preventing severe migraines for those who have them regularly
• reducing symptoms of an overactive bladder due to a neurological condition 
• eyelid spasms, or blepharospasm, due to dystonia
• cervical dystonia, a neurological movement disorder that affects the head and causes neck pain

These are all approved treatments by the FDA. Some use Botox for other conditions, but they have not been FDA approved. 

Does Botox Hurt?

This is tricky to answer because everyone has a different pain threshold. In general, you can expect some mild discomfort and pain during the injection. Many doctors will apply a topical numbing agent or an ice pack to the area to dull the injection sensation.

If the procedure is done correctly, you should not leave in pain or have any serious negative side effects. Headaches and bruising at the injection site can occur, but typically resolve in a day or two. 

The toxin takes 24-72 hours to kick in; once it does, you will notice the difference in your facial features. Wrinkles will be reduced, and you should have a more youthful appearance in general. Your wrinkles haven’t been removed; the muscles that create them are just paralyzed.

How Long Does Botox Last?

This, too, is difficult to answer because each person is different. Generally speaking, the effects of a Botox treatment can last anywhere from three to twelve months. And the Botox process from start to finish only takes about 30 minutes.

To help prolong the effects of a Botox treatment, avoid touching your face for at least four hours after the procedure. This includes bending over, lying down and generally increasing blood flow to that area. Wait at least twenty-four hours before doing any strenuous exercise after your injection.

Some doctors may recommend waiting even longer. You can, however, do facial exercises. Move the eyes around, raise and lower the eyebrows, smile, frown, just don’t touch your face. Doing simple facial exercises can actually help the Botox work better.  

How Much Will Does Botox Cost?

The cost of Botox will depend on a few factors. Is the treatment medical or cosmetic? Who is providing the treatment and where? How many units will be used?

The best way to get an estimate for how much Botox will cost is to contact the Botox treatment provider.

If you are having a procedure done that is deemed medically necessary, your health insurance may cover some of the cost. Consult with your provider to find out more. 

How Can I Find A Reputable Botox Administrator?

Our Botox advice? You can start by talking with your primary care physician about your desire for Botox treatment. They know your medical history and may be able to identify any contraindications for you.

When it comes to addressing the question ‘does Botox hurt?’ the answer is if the doctor is a good one, it shouldn’t.

Here at Faces Spa, we pride ourselves on providing the best care and services to you and your loved ones.

Call (402) 384-8400 to chat with our trained professionals about whether our Botox treatment protocols are right for you. We can’t wait to help you look and feel your best.