Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in the world, and for good reason: it’s quick, it has very little downtime and, in the right hands, it looks natural. But a lot of people aren’t sure what it actually does under the skin. Here’s a simple explanation of how Botox works, what it treats and what to expect at Evolv Wellness MedSpa in Denver.
What is Botox?
Botox Cosmetic is a purified protein (botulinum toxin type A) used in very small, precise doses. It has been FDA-approved for cosmetic use since 2002, starting with the frown lines between the brows, and later for crow’s feet and forehead lines. It’s one of the most studied aesthetic treatments available.
How Botox works
Many of the lines on your face are dynamic wrinkles. They form from the same muscle movements you make thousands of times a day: frowning, squinting, smiling and raising your eyebrows. Over time, that repeated folding creases the skin.
Normally, your nerves release a chemical messenger called acetylcholine that tells a muscle to contract. Botox temporarily blocks that signal in the specific muscles where it’s injected. The muscle relaxes, so it can’t crease the skin as strongly, and the lines on top soften and smooth out. The rest of your face keeps moving normally, which is why a skilled injector can soften lines without a “frozen” look.
What Botox treats
- Frown lines (the “11s” between the brows)
- Forehead lines
- Crow’s feet around the eyes
- Other areas your provider may discuss, such as a subtle brow lift or a softer gummy smile
Botox works best on lines caused by movement. Lines that are etched in even when your face is at rest, or areas that have lost volume, may respond better to dermal filler or microneedling, sometimes combined with Botox.
What to expect at your appointment
- Consultation: We talk about your goals and do a quick facial analysis to map out the treatment areas.
- Treatment: The injections take about 10 minutes. Most people describe a quick pinch.
- Downtime: Very little. You may have small bumps or redness for a short time, and occasional minor bruising. Most people go right back to their day.
When you’ll see results, and how long they last
You’ll usually start to notice softening within a few days, with full results at about two weeks. Results typically last about three to four months. As the effect gradually wears off, muscle movement returns and you can schedule your next treatment to maintain your results.
Is Botox safe?
When given by a trained, licensed provider, Botox has a long track record of safety. Possible side effects include temporary bruising, swelling, headache and, less commonly, a heavy or drooping brow or eyelid that resolves as the product wears off. That’s why injector experience and careful placement matter. Botox isn’t recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding or for people with certain neuromuscular conditions, so your provider will review your health history first.
Botox vs. Dysport
Dysport is a similar neuromodulator that works the same way. Some patients find it kicks in a little faster or spreads a bit more, which can be helpful for larger areas like the forehead. Learn more on our Dysport page.
Try Botox at Evolv
New to Botox? Read Botox for Beginners: What to Expect, and learn more on our Botox page. Don’t miss Botox Happy Hour every Friday, 10am to 5pm, at $10 per unit. See our current specials or book your appointment at Evolv Wellness MedSpa, 2503 Elmira Street, Aurora, CO 80010.
This article is for educational purposes and isn’t medical advice. Talk with a licensed provider about whether Botox is right for you.
Related reading: Preventative Botox · Botox for Beginners: What to Expect