Common Questions About Botox

Botulinum toxin is a pharmaceutical product widely used in cosmetology. It blocks neuromuscular impulses, helping to control the contraction of facial muscles responsible for expressions. Uncontrolled muscle contractions lead to the formation of expression lines of varying depth. The most vulnerable areas are the corners of the eyes, forehead, and the area between the eyebrows. It’s important to know that facial muscle contractions occur even during sleep, making it nearly impossible to control this process.

Is Botox harmful, what are its indications and contraindications, and how can you achieve the best results from a rejuvenation procedure? The cosmetic doctors at LeoDerm Clinic in Lviv provide the answers.

Is Botox harmful to the body?

The principle behind botulinum toxin injections is to eliminate excessive muscle tone. The drug prevents neuromuscular impulses in the injection area without affecting neighboring regions. Botulinum toxin does not accumulate in the body, does not affect internal organs, and does not cause muscle paralysis.

Does botulinum toxin cause dependency?

Injections have a temporary effect. Once the drug's effect wears off, the muscles' ability to contract fully returns. Muscle function does not weaken, so sagging and drooping of facial tissues is a myth.

At what age can Botox be administered?

There are no strict age limits for botulinum therapy. It is recommended to consult with a cosmetic doctor when the first wrinkles appear. The age at which they appear depends on the individual's characteristics. However, the belief that Botox injections should not be done before the age of 30 is a misconception.

What wrinkles does Botox not remove?   

Botulinum toxin products effectively eliminate expression lines on the forehead, between the eyebrows, on the chin, smoker's lines (around the mouth), lines on the nose, and crow's feet around the eyes. However, it is not effective against wrinkles that are not related to muscle contraction, such as preauricular wrinkles near the earlobe.

How long does it take for Botox to work?  

The first results after injections appear within 3-5 days, with the maximum effect occurring after 2 weeks. The skin begins to smooth out, fine wrinkles disappear completely, and deeper ones gradually fade. Why doesn't Botox work immediately? This is explained by the mechanism of expression wrinkle formation: they occur due to excessive muscle contraction. After the injections, the muscles first relax, and only then do the wrinkles begin to disappear.

How long does the effect of beauty injections last?  

Botulinum therapy has a temporary effect, lasting for 4-6 months. To maintain the results, the procedure is repeated at intervals determined by the cosmetic doctor. This depends on individual characteristics, age, and lifestyle.

Which is better—Botox or facial fillers?  

Some women mistakenly believe that fillers and Botox are alternative methods of rejuvenation. However, they have fundamentally different mechanisms of action. Botulinum toxin affects the muscles, causing them to relax, which smooths out wrinkles. Fillers do not affect the muscles; instead, the rejuvenating effect is achieved by enriching the skin with collagen, hyaluronic acid, and other substances, as well as by activating regeneration.

Can Botox be administered during menstruation?  

Menstruation is not a contraindication, as the rate of metabolic processes in the body remains nearly unchanged. However, a woman should be aware of certain aspects of the procedure during this period:

• pain sensitivity is increased in the premenstrual period and during menstruation;
• slowed blood clotting may increase the risk of bruising and hematomas;
• swelling, which is usually present during this time, may become more pronounced.

If a woman experiences acne during menstruation, injections should not be administered.

What should not be done after a Botox procedure?  

To ensure the best results from botulinum therapy, it is important to strictly follow the cosmetic doctor's recommendations:

• avoid touching the face with your hands for at least 4 hours;
• do not tilt your head downward or sleep on your face for 2 hours after the procedure;
• avoid alcohol for 2-3 days;
• do not sunbathe or visit a tanning salon;
• avoid hot baths, saunas, or steam rooms;
• refrain from swimming or using open bodies of water;
• avoid exercising.

It is necessary to consult with the doctor about which cosmetic products and medications are allowed.

Can Botox be administered during pregnancy?  

Pregnancy and lactation are contraindications for beauty injections. For women in this category, an experienced cosmetic doctor will recommend alternative cosmetic treatments to help maintain skin youthfulness during this special period.

What is Botox for lips?  

Botulinum toxin is used to eliminate wrinkles on the face and neck, and injections are also effective in the lip area, which may lose firmness due to aging changes, muscle spasms, and other factors.

What can shorten the duration of Botox results?  

Increased levels of catecholamines—hormones synthesized in response to stress and nervous tension—can reduce the effectiveness of beauty injections. Additionally, certain categories of medications can also impact the results:

• blood pressure medications;
• medications for improving circulation;
• medications for strengthening blood vessels;
• antidepressants.

It is important to inform the cosmetic doctor about any medications you are taking before the injection.

How does alcohol affect Botox?  

Alcohol does not chemically interact with botulinum toxin, but due to its ability to dilate blood vessels and accelerate circulation, it is prohibited before injections and for a few days afterward to prevent side effects such as bruising.

Read more about botulinum therapy here.

When administered by experienced professionals, the risk of complications is minimal. The cosmetic doctors at LeoDerm Clinic in Lviv have many years of experience and use only tested products. Schedule a consultation at the medical center to learn more about maintaining youth and beauty.