How Does Botox® (Botulinum Toxin) Work?
Botox® was the first injectable treatment to use botulinum toxin. This neuromodulator works by temporarily paralyzing facial muscles. It interferes with your nerves’ ability to send signals to your facial muscles, allowing them to relax.
Since dynamic wrinkles are caused by muscle contractions, stopping muscle movements with Botox® reduces these lines and wrinkles. Regular Botox® use keeps these muscles from contracting so your lines and wrinkles stay away.
How Long After Botox® Can You Get a Facial?
If you want to plan Botox® and a facial, you might wonder how much time you should have between them. When injected, Botox® takes a few days to travel to and bind with the targeted nerves. Once in place, Botox® will not budge. However, if disturbed too much immediately after injection, Botox® could migrate and relax muscles in undesired locations.
We recommend that you wait for a minimum of three to four days after Botox® before having a facial. Fortunately, if you want Botox® and a facial during the same appointment, you may be able to have the facial first followed by Botox®. Discuss any treatments you are considering during your consultation.
Is There Any Downtime With Botox®?
You can return to work or other activities immediately after having Botox®. However, you should avoid lying down or rubbing your face for about four hours after treatment. This could potentially cause Botox® to spread out too much. Some people have minor swelling or sensitivity in the injection area that lasts a day or two.
