Hi friends! First of all, thank you so much for all of the love you shared with me on the Life Lately post. I got countless messages on Facebook and Instagram and it meant so much to me and I’m happy (in a weird way) that you could relate to me. So now, let’s get onto more fun topics, starting with Botox! I want to break down my experience with you and would love to answer any other questions you might have after reading this post.

*These are the pictures taken by the doctor, except for one I took right after. They are not super high-quality, are imperfect, and I’m not wearing any makeup, but this is real life and I wanted you to see it that way.

Why did you decide to get Botox?

You may not know that I spent four years living in Arizona. Although I wore sunscreen and did what I could to protect my skin, I still spent a lot of time squinting from the sunlight, even while wearing sunglasses. I also spend a lot of time reading and concentrating which furrows my brow. So, I had crow’s feet and was getting the “eleven” lines between my brows (called the Glabella). I also had typical lines on my forehead that were starting to show even when my face was resting and were becoming uncooperative when I wore make-up, causing it to settle in the lines, making them more prominent. So, I got Botox to diminish the sight of these lines.

 

But, I also got Botox for two other reasons: 1) it will help prevent my existing lines from getting deeper/bigger and 2) it improves the texture of your skin, making it smoother and in my opinion, more supple.

Where did you get Botox?

I had Botox applied around my eyes, in between my brows, and on my forehead. Not only did it eliminate my lines, but it also opened up my eyes more, which makes my face look brighter and helps me look more awake.

I want to stress that I had this done by a dermatologist. I did not (and would not) get Botox done by anyone other than an M.D. for various reasons. So if you’re thinking about going to a medspa or someone other than a doctor for it, please reconsider. And for my local friends, I saw Dr. Brown at River Ridge and cannot recommend her enough!

How much does it cost?

In total, I had 32 units injected which is considered a moderate amount. It has not frozen my face. I can still move my brows and of course smile with movement around my eyes, just without excessive lines.

Most places charge per unit which is how I was charged ($16/unit) but I bought 50 units during a sale, which helped offset the overall cost.

Did it hurt?

No! It did not hurt, even around my eyes, and it also only took a few minutes. There was no numbing, no ice packs, and no downtime afterward. I’ve had it done twice now, and this picture below is immediately following my second round of injections – there’s a little redness, but that’s it! You can also see in this pic how the Botox had worn off in three months, especially around my eyes.

How long does it last?

Ok, so this is where I really learned something. Botox lasts 3-4 months and for me, it’s been lasting about 3 months. What I did not know is that it can take up to 14 days following your injections for the Botox to take effect, so you do not see immediate changes right after you get it.

What’s the difference between Botox, Dysport, and filler?

Alright, I’m no expert, but I’ve also asked these questions. Very little difference between Botox and Dysport – they are different brands but both used to eliminate lines and wrinkles. However, Dysport kicks in faster (about 3 days) so if you’re in a hurry to see results, you might prefer Dysport. Typically they are similar in price.

Fillers, on the other hand, do not remove lines and wrinkles and instead are used to contour the face. Fillers do last longer though, but typically cost a lot more money and are used for different purposes than Botox/Dysport.

Will you do it again? 

Absolutely! I am so happy with the results and cannot wait for my next appointment at the end of the year. It makes my skin look and feel great, and makes my makeup wear more evenly, too.