My name is Amanda and I've had Botox (twice!)
Yes, you read that right! (and I know some are judging, but that’s ok!) Now I bet you’re thinking why does the twenty-something year old want or even need Botox. “She doesn’t even have any wrinkles!” Given how our society views cosmetic interventions, admitting you’ve had an injection or two will garner some strange looks. We are all guilty of it, once someone reveals they’ve had some “work” we instantly start scanning their face and body trying to find a tell-tale sign of abnormality. The truth is when done right it shouldn’t be detectable, and should enhance your natural beauty how you see fit! Emphasis on the YOU!
A lot of our exposure to cosmetic/plastic surgery comes from social media and “celebrities” often for the wrong reasons. Injectables used to be reserved for the rich and wealthy, and this is no longer the case. We never think of the celebrities who have had “good work” done but rather the ones who are left with a frozen forehead (Nicole Kidman anyone?) or Jocelyn Wildenstein (who’s unanimously know for her extreme botched work).
Those who have had “good” cosmetic work we often attribute to “good genes”, regular facials or excellent grade skin care. These all work and play a part, but only so far. Now by no means am I saying that we should compare ourselves to those who have unlimited access to unlimited resources, including anti-aging remedies. But ladies lets be real, in some aspect of our lives we do! Color of lipstick, haircut/color, dress style etc, are some examples. Why are cosmetic enhancements any different?
I started my “path to Botox” some time before my wedding. I had noticed that my makeup was starting to settle in the lines above my forehead and around my eyes. I even went as far as to switch up my makeup/ skin care routine but I wasn’t happy with the results. I didn’t have any permanent deep set lines, but I also didn’t want any (Botox is preventative). After researching what’s out there Botox vs Fillers vs Lasers ect. I decided that given my current “issues” that most likely Botox would be best suited and affordable.
Before I go any further I just wanted to give a quick low-down on the difference between Botox and fillers:
Botox is a brand name of a specific botulinum neurotoxin. In Canada three forms of the botulinum toxin are available. This is botulinum toxin type A (trade names Botox®, Xeomin® and Dysport®). These essentially work by targeting the underlying muscle activity and temporarily relaxing it.
Fillers can be of a variety of temporary or permanent materials and are used to fill lines. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane®, Juvederm®, and Belotero® and calcium fillers like Radiesse® are the most common.
Between the two categories generally lines of expression need botulinum toxin. Lines at rest need filler.
Botox lasts 4 months, where as fillers 6-12 months. Which means that they are temporary!
"Wrinkles result from a combination of many factors. It’s not just about cellular changes that can occur over time, reduction of collagen, or damage caused by free radicals in the sun and the environment. When you frown or concentrate, the muscles between your brows contract, causing your skin to furrow and fold. And when you squint, the muscles around your eyes contract and cause crow’s feet." Source
You get the idea!
With some more research, and a few women opening up about their own experiences, I decided to research a cosmetic practitioner. Now I won’t name names in my blog, but if you want any information shoot me an email!
Ready with a doctor I felt comfortable with I went for my consultation and had my injections done. Now I'm sure you all are wondering, what did it feel like? Did it hurt? How long did it last? etc.
Pre:
First my doctor examined which areas I wanted injected. From here we discussed goals and expectations. Armed with the information I needed we decided to go for a soft look that wouldn't limit the expression in my face (which I still love!).
I decided on getting my crows feet injected and my forehead lines. Overall I required about 10 units total. Below is an image that will give you an idea of how many units you will need, the price of Botox goes for $8-12/unit (so you can roughly figure out the math).
My injector then asked me to squint my eyes/ raise my brows to landmark the areas. Next she gave my skin a quick swipe of an alcohol pad to clean the area. While that was drying she began reconstituting the Botox (which comes as a powder!) I believe it's super important that any injector uses a new vial, and prepares it in front of you. This way you know what you're getting.
During:
Now the injection: honestly it was a little pinch, then a slight sting as I was being injected. Nothing unbearable though. If you are sensitive you can ask for numbing cream. The more delicate the area or deeper the muscle the higher possibility that it may sting a bit more.
Some people do feel a mild, headache-y feeling afterwards so you may want to take some Tylenol or Advil. Lastly, you may bruise, but as you can see the size of the needle is SO small it really lowers your chances!
The whole procedure took less than 10 minutes and besides the obvious removal of my foundation to the areas we injected, it was undetectable!
Post:
Equip with some after care instructions such as; raising my eyebrows and squinting my eyes to work the Botox in, and no exercise (increasing your heart rate can cause you to bruise more). I was out the door to continue on with my day
Overall, I love the softened effect that Botox has given me. To date I've had two round of Botox (each 4 months apart) and am awaiting my next appointment in a few weeks.
This isn't for everyone, nor do I believe each one of us actually needs it. But if it's something that makes you feel better and doesn't harm anyone, then why not? I'd love to hear your thoughts or experiences with Botox/ fillers!
xoAmanda