Does Botox® Hurt? Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions About Botox®

“Does Botox® hurt?” is one of the most common concerns people have before making an appointment.

Sadly misconceptions surrounding Botox® often deter interested men and women.

So, we are here to answer questions about the process and aftercare:

Does Botox® hurt?
What can I expect during a Botox® appointment?
What is the Botox® aftercare process?
How long does Botox® last?

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Botox® so you can walk into your appointment with confidence.

What is Botox®?

Botox® is a purified neurotoxin that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for cosmetic use in 2002. Botox® temporarily freezes the facial muscle it is injected into to stop the formation or progression of wrinkles and fine lines.

This may sound intimidating, however, this is a completely safe procedure and very few patients have adverse reactions.

Botox® has many benefits in addition to aesthetics such as treating:

• Chronic migraine
• Spasms
• Excessive armpit sweating

Although Botox® has amazing results many don’t get to benefit from it because of their concerns. This brings us to our next question.

Does Botox® Hurt?

Many people assume that Botox® is a painful procedure because needles are involved. However, the needle used to administer Botox® is so small that most people report feeling a slight pinch or stinging sensation. Botox® needles are typically 30-gauge, which is the same size used for insulin injections.

At Whole Health JC, we offer our patients a topical numbing cream that can make each injection feel virtually painless. We also make every effort to ensure you are as comfortable as can be before we begin. Simply calming your mind and relaxing your body can help significantly reduce the perception of pain.

What Can I Expect During a Botox® Appointment?

You may hear a slight popping sound when the needle punctures your skin. If this sounds like something that would make you uncomfortable, you can always ask your Botox® Professional if you can listen to music during your appointment. Either way, this discomfort will come and go in a matter of seconds.

You may also notice that the Botox® forms small bumps under the injection site. Not to worry – these will flatten as the Botox® makes its way through your muscles and is absorbed by your body. They should disappear by the time you leave your appointment.

A Quick and Simple Process

A Botox® appointment is so quick that you could fit it into your lunch break! Your Botox® professional should be able to complete the entire process in a matter of minutes. That being said, you may want to take the afternoon off if you’re concerned about returning to work with slight redness or swelling.

Overall the process of receiving your Botox® injection can be a stress-free process that is also fast and simple.

Fun fact: Botox may even reduce anxiety according to new data from the FDA in 2021. Additionally, patients gave feedback that they felt calmer and more stress-free after receiving Botox®.

What to Do (& Not to Do) After Botox® – The Botox® Aftercare Process

You will be provided with aftercare instructions that are specifically designed to help your Botox® settle into your muscles well and remain there for a maximum amount of time.

However, you may be wondering what the Botox® aftercare process actually entails.

After Care Do’s and Don’ts

The Botox® aftercare process is simple, but it’s also the key to reducing potential side effects and keeping you comfortable after your appointment. Here are the most important steps you can take to ensure a smooth post-Botox® process.

Avoid Physical Activity

It’s highly recommended to avoid any physical activity for at least 6 hours after your Botox® appointment. Any physical activity could increase bruising at the injection site. You should also refrain from taking ibuprofen (or any other blood-thinning medication), tilting your head forward, and touching your face.

Don’t Wear Makeup

You will also want to refrain from wearing makeup for at least 24-hours, so you don’t risk infecting the injection site. Alcohol may also increase your chances of bruising, so avoid consuming any alcoholic beverages for 24-hours, too.

Avoid Direct Contact With Sunlight

You should avoid any direct contact with the sun for at least 4 hours after your appointment and wear a wide-brimmed hat if you have to be outside. Sleep on a clean pillowcase and do your best to sleep on your back.

Modify Your Skincare Routine

Talk to your doctor about which skincare products you use to see if you should avoid using them for a day or two. You can certainly expect to avoid exfoliating products!

Side Effects

Botox® side effects may include redness, swelling, bruising, or pain at the injection site – if you do experience these symptoms, they should subside in a few hours. If you experience these symptoms and they do not go away after 48-hours, it’s recommended to contact your doctor.

Amazing Results

The Botox® will start to take effect over the next few days to weeks. Don’t panic when you don’t see results the next day! It’s completely normal to still have a full range of motion, which means you will still notice your wrinkles and fine lines. Your face will start to firm up over time, and you should be very pleased with the results when it does.

For many people, Botox® can make them look and feel years younger, but how long can you expect these results to last?

How Long Does Botox® Last?

On average, Botox® lasts for three to four months. Of course, results will vary from person to person.

One of the great things about Botox® is that it can help prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles while smoothing out existing ones. Because your facial muscles are unable to move for a few months (or years, if you make regular Botox® appointments), your skin does not create permanent folds.

Therefore, Botox® can result in life-long, youthful-looking skin if administered early enough and maintained regularly.

Restore Your Youth with Botox® Treatment

Overall Botox® is a stress-free process and helps to reduce future signs of aging if done early enough. Understanding the variety of uses that Botox® has can help you determine if this treatment is right for you. At Whole Health JC, we understand why you may have concerns about Botox®, but we’re here to make the process as simple and painless as possible.

If you’re interested in receiving a Botox injection treatment, we’re here to help you decide on the best treatment option for you.