Skin Care And Sunlight: Why They Don't Go Together

Many people have wished to look younger at one time or another. As time goes by, wrinkles can accumulate, and although they may be the sign of a life well-lived, you may long for a smoother, fresher appearance. Botox treatment is a simple and minimally invasive injection treatment designed to prevent new wrinkles while smoothing existing wrinkles. Botox injections can also provide a subtle but noticeable lift for your eyes and eyebrows. Your dermatologist can administer Botox injections in their office. Here are some tips for anyone who plans on getting this treatment:

1. Talk to your dermatologist about the capabilities and limitations of Botox. 

Botox can offer dramatic results for people who want to look more youthful. However, it isn't a miracle drug. Deep wrinkles may not fully disappear, even after Botox has been administered. You can talk to your dermatologist about the type of results you can expect from your Botox treatment. Your dermatologist may suggest a "try it and see" approach that lets you assess the results of a single round of Botox before deciding if you'd like additional treatments.

2. Do your best to relax.

If you've ever gotten a shot before, you know that tensing up can cause it to hurt more. The same principle holds true for Botox injections. Anticipating pain may make you more sensitive to it, which is why you should try your best to relax when your doctor administers your injections. This may be easier said than done, so if you have a needle phobia or you tend to get anxious in doctor's offices, you can talk to your dermatologist about your concerns ahead of time. Your dermatologist may be willing to prescribe you a single dose of anti-anxiety medication to help you calm down during your appointment.

3. Apply cold compresses and take over-the-counter medication if necessary.

Most people experience minimal side effects from Botox injections and are able to return to their normal activities immediately. In fact, some people even have their Botox treatment performed during their lunch break. However, if you experience pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites, you can ease your symptoms with simple home remedies. Applying cold compresses to your skin can relieve swelling and pain. Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen and naproxen, can also reduce swelling and irritation. Some drugs may increase your risk of bleeding, so make sure to ask your dermatologist for their approval before taking any new medication.

Contact your dermatologist to learn more about Botox injections.