What is Botox and How Does It Work?
The Aesthetic Treatment Rooms Benton, Newcastle
If you’ve been considering aesthetic treatments to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, you’ve likely heard about Botox. But what exactly is Botox, and how does it work to help rejuvenate your skin? At The Aesthetic Treatment Rooms in Benton, Newcastle, Dr Helen Whyte delivers expertly administered Botox treatments, and we believe that understanding the treatment can help you make an informed decision.
In this blog, we’ll explain what Botox is, how it works, and why it remains one of the most popular non-surgical aesthetic treatments worldwide.
What is Botox?
Botox is a brand name for botulinum toxin type A, a purified protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. While it may sound intimidating, this substance has been safely used in medicine for decades. Initially approved for medical conditions such as muscle spasms, strabismus (crossed eyes), and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), Botox’s ability to reduce wrinkles was discovered as a secondary benefit, leading to its rise in the cosmetic world.
Botox injections temporarily relax muscles by blocking the nerve signals that cause them to contract. When injected into specific areas of the face, it reduces the appearance of dynamic wrinkles, those that form from repeated muscle movements, such as smiling, frowning, or squinting. This makes Botox particularly effective for treating crow's feet, forehead lines, and frown lines between the eyebrows (commonly referred to as "elevens").
How Does Botox Work?
To understand how Botox works, it's essential to know a bit about how wrinkles develop. Over time, our skin loses elasticity and collagen, causing it to become less resilient to the muscle movements that occur when we laugh, frown, or raise our eyebrows. These repeated contractions crease the skin, resulting in fine lines and deeper wrinkles.
Botox works by targeting the muscles responsible for these expressions. When injected into the muscle, Botox blocks the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that signals muscles to contract. By preventing these muscle contractions, Botox allows the overlying skin to relax and smooth out. The result? A reduction in the appearance of dynamic wrinkles, leaving the skin looking smoother and more youthful.
The Treatment Process at The Aesthetic Treatment Rooms
At The Aesthetic Treatment Rooms in Benton, Newcastle, we provide a tailored approach to Botox treatments. Every face is unique, and Dr Helen ensures that treatments are customised to suit your specific needs and desired outcomes.
Here’s what you can expect during your Botox treatment:
Consultation: Your journey begins with a consultation, where we assess your skin and discuss your goals. We’ll determine which areas of your face can benefit from Botox and decide on the appropriate dosage and treatment plan.
Preparation: On the day of your appointment, the treatment area will be prepared with an antimicrobial solution to prevent infection. The procedure itself is relatively quick, typically taking around 10 to 15 minutes.
Injection: Using a fine needle, Dr Helen Whyte will administer small doses of Botox into the targeted muscles. The number of injections depends on the size of the area being treated and the extent of the wrinkles.
Post-Treatment: After the procedure, there is little to no downtime. You can resume most of your daily activities immediately, though we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise, lying down, or massaging the treated area for the first 4 hours to prevent the Botox from migrating.
How Long Does Botox Last?
One of the most common questions we receive at The Aesthetic Treatment Rooms is how long the effects of Botox last. While Botox provides temporary results, its duration can vary depending on the individual, the area treated, and the dosage used.
Typically, the effects of Botox start to become noticeable within 3 to 5 days after treatment, with full results visible after two weeks. These results generally last for up to 3 months, the muscle activity will gradually return, and the wrinkles may reappear. Regular maintenance treatments are recommended to sustain a smooth, youthful appearance.
Why Choose Botox at The Aesthetic Treatment Rooms?
At The Aesthetic Treatment Rooms in Benton, Newcastle, our Botox treatments are administered by award winning, medically qualified dental professional Dr Helen Whyte, who has extensive experience in facial aesthetics. We prioritise patient safety, ensuring that every treatment is performed with precision to achieve natural-looking results. We believe that Botox should enhance your appearance, not freeze your features, and our goal is to provide subtle, refined improvements that leave you looking refreshed and confident.
We also use only the highest quality products, ensuring that your treatment is both safe and effective. Whether you’re looking to smooth out existing wrinkles or take a preventative approach to ageing, Botox can be an excellent choice for those seeking non-surgical facial rejuvenation.
Is Botox Right for You?
Botox is an excellent option for individuals who are concerned about the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles caused by muscle movement. It’s suitable for most healthy adults and can be used preventatively in younger individuals or as a corrective treatment in those with more established wrinkles.
However, Botox may not be appropriate for everyone. It’s essential to discuss your medical history, any medications you’re taking, and your aesthetic goals with our team during your consultation to ensure that Botox is the right treatment for you.
