What is Botox: Before and After

Anti-wrinkle injections, commonly referred to as Botox injections seem to be a taboo topic, yet they’re becoming more and more prevalent among both younger and older women. So to find out what all the hype is about, bh's Kelly recently went in for her first Botox treatment and documented the entire experience. But before we get into the good stuff (like her before and after photos!), here's everything you need to know about Botox...
What is Botox?
Botox is a trade name for botulinium toxin, a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium clostridium botulinium. Phew! So that’s the scientific description over and done with, but what does that actually mean? Well, scientists discovered several years ago that although Botox is a toxin, when used in diluted small amounts it has cosmetic and medicinal benefits, including remedying muscle spasms.
How does Botox work?
Botox works by blocking chemical receptors that cause muscles to contract, without damaging the nerves. So, essentially, those muscles become frozen and relaxed.
How can Botox injections make you look younger?
Because it doesn’t require going under the knife, the popularity of Botox in the beauty industry has increased considerably in recent years. It has a range of cosmetic uses, including softening frown lines, smoothing out wrinkles, and reducing the appearance of crow’s feet and other lines caused by the repeated movement of facial muscles over time.
How is the treatment given?
When used for cosmetic treatments, Botox is injected into affected areas during a very quick process (anywhere from several minutes to an hour) that doesn’t require anaesthetic. This makes it a popular alternative to cosmetic surgery as it has minimal ‘down time’ after treatment and the effects can be seen almost immediately.
How long does Botox last?
A Botox injection can take about two to five days to fully start working, and the effects can last anywhere from around six weeks to four months. After this time the muscles will regain their movement, but repeat treatments can then be given to restore the effects.
What else can it be used for?
Aside from the fact Botox injections can make you look younger, they can also be used to treat other conditions, including excessive sweating, incontinence, chronic pain and cramps. Researchers are also trialling Botox as a treatment for asthma and hayfever.
Before the treatment
Kelly first decided to try cosmetic injections as her fine lines were quite developed for her age (27) and she was becoming increasingly frustrated with the way the lines aged her face and the way her make-up would settle into them. Kelly explains, “I definitely don’t ever want that ‘frozen face’ look but I don’t see the problem with getting the occasional jab to smooth out my lines and prevent them from getting worse.”
Jennifer Colyer, Laser Clinics Australia Registered Nurse and Cosmetic Injector who performed the procedure explains to me that cosmetic injections can actually help to prevent wrinkles. “It helps to minimise [the] dynamic action of muscles and this decreased movement helps place less stress on the skin, helping you maintain a fresh and youthful appearance.”
RELATED: 7 ways to look younger for free
During
Kelly explains what happens during the procedure: “It’s not painful in the slightest. Depending on your practitioner, your face will be wiped free from bacteria and you may be asked to hold ice onto the areas to create a numbing effect. After inspecting your face and problem areas, your practitioner will determine where they need to treat and how many mls are required for the desired effect. You will be asked to make expressions while the practitioner pinches the area or marks it before injecting a certain amount of the botox into it. It's a slight stinging sensation but really, an extraction [facial] hurts way more.”
Immediately after
Anti-wrinkle injections do not work straight away. Jennifer tells me they usually start to take effect 48-72 hours post-treatment and the maximum effect is “generally visible within seven to 14 days”. Kelly says there can be some bruising for up to two days after the treatment and advises to “keep this in mind if you’re getting it done for a special occasion”.
RELATED: 5 ways not to look your age
Two weeks after
At Laser Clinics Australia, a review is recommended two weeks post-treatment to ensure the desired effect has been achieved. As for how long it lasts, Kelly tells me that depending on the deepness of your lines it can last anywhere from eight weeks to four months.
Cost
Cosmetic injections vary in price, depending on where you choose to get them. At Laser Clinics Australia they charge $12.90 per unit for anti-wrinkle injections and also offer packages to make the treatment more cost effective. Jennifer explains you can get 40 units for $349 which will treat two areas of concern (like Kelly’s crow’s feet and forehead). “[I will] 100 per cent continue to get injections two to three times a year as I really love how much better and smoother my skin looks,” says Kelly. “I can justify the cost as it means I spend less on make-up trying to cover the lines!”
Have you ever thought about cosmetic injections? What do you think of these before and afters?
287 Member Comments
Not for me but understand why it suits others. Good luck for those who try.
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I hate the idea of injecting chemicals into my face but I’ve had no choice but to use Botox for my migraines and the needles entering my scalp are so painful I hate the thought of it.
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I'm sorry you have migraines Fefe. Perfectly understand why you are giving this a go. I hope it really helps you.
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She looks great but I don't want to get it, I'm going to aim to age gracefully as much as I can.
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I don't think I could stand an injection but if it makes you happy then do what makes you happy.
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Hi there, my name is Maz and I’m a cosmetic doctor at Star Cosmetic Medicine in Sydney. Yes, for some people, they do not need botox at 27. It really does depend on each individual's needs. Those that have healthy, thick skin may not require botox until much later. However, some skin types, particularly Caucasian men, can start to develop static lines in their early 20’s and thus may benefit from wrinkle injections at an earlier stage in life. Skin differs from person to person, and there are many contributing factors to how a person’s skin ages. Ultimately, unless there is a medical issue, you don’t NEED botox, but, as a wrinkle treatment, and as the cliche goes, prevention is better than cure.
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I personally wouldn't get botox but I can is why many do. I'm happy to use wrinkle creams and age naturally.
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Each to their own!
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I love it! Besides the cost!
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I can see the difference but not for me.
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I find it sad that at 27 years a person thinks they need botox. Guess I'm lucky and drew on a good gene pool for my skin. Interesting to see the before and after shots.
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The results look great, but I'm too scared to try it.
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The results look amazing would definitely try Botox around my lips and eyes.
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Those are some great results. I really want to try it but keep putting it off.
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love, love, love! i use Dysport. i was sceptical at first. but I'm now addicted!!! Great results overtime, I feel super confident in the morning fresh faced!
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Where are the photos? ☹️
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Botulism toxin in tiny amounts works wonders!
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Botox at 27? Really? I wish people would accept aging is part of life (but then I might think differently in a couple of years when more wrinkles start to appear!!!)
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I've heard of teenagers getting it.
I think in your twenties it’s more of a preventative measure!
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The needles really aren't as bad as everyone thinks. I think a little bit can look great if you're into it.
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I completely agree.
Subtle work looks fab!
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They're amazing results - but still something I'd be too scared to try.
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I have been thinking about getting botox for a while now. I have very deep lines around my eyes and mouth. The before and after pics were amazing and looks every bit worth it. I will be trying this in the near future. I will start saving immediately.
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I was just researching on Botox to find out the opinions of some beauties. Well, 27, so young to get these injections. I guess I was really lucky with good skin and genes. I still had to show proof of age at age 30, or get asked if my parents were home. Yes true, I was a mother of 2 children too. Very flattering. If only I was so lucky now, 30+ years on. Age and stress and a bad car accident have caused a lot of lines and using the anti-aging creams is my only resort to reducing these lines. Far too late to give botox a shot as it would cost an absolute fortune for me.
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