Calendar Reminder: Botox Consult @ Santal Skin
We remember our very first Botox consultation. Welcome! You’ve taken the plunge into the world of anti-aging and neuromodulators. Maybe you’ve done all the research, have prepared your list of questions in your notes app, have an idea of the areas you want treated, and are counting down the minutes until you meet with one of our providers. OR, like most of us, you’ve only heard that Botox gets rid of fine lines and wrinkles, have no idea what questions to ask, have consulted Google/Instagram/Tik Tok for the 5th time today, and the information overload makes you sweat. Also, what’s a neuromodulator? Here, there, or in between, we’re here to give you the skinny on what happens at your very first Botox consultation. I’ll let you in on a little secret: the worst part about Botox? You’re going to love it.
in the room
Take a deep breath, and know you are in the hands of experienced professionals. We will make sure you’re comfortable, seen, and heard. We’re SO excited that you’re here and are ready to get to know you! First, we will discuss the details of your medical profile and history. This will ensure we have all the necessary information prior to your treatment, and will help us understand if there are any contraindications to treatment. Have that list of questions? Fire away. We’ll open up the floor to you, and any thoughts or concerns you may have. This is an in-depth appointment with ample time to ensure you feel confident in your injector, and confident in the service itself. Next, we’ll discuss your course of treatment, understand the areas that bother you, and mark those areas out. After assessing the muscle size and movement, our provider will recommend how many units you may require–your personal botox “cocktail” if you will. Then, we can talk about numbers and pricing. If you’re comfortable, we always carve out enough time for day-of treatment!
PSA: We know the term “neuromodulator” can sound a little intimidating. Neuromodulator is the umbrella term for botulinum toxin (another cringey word… stick with us) that can be injected into the body. Botox has been FDA approved for over 30 years, is extremely safe, and is used extensively in the medical field. Botox essentially sits in front of a receptor site between the muscle and the brain, and says to our targeted muscles, “hey, chill for a while.” Without the consistent movement of those muscles, the lines will smooth. It’s like a real-life filter!
in the chair
So we have your Botox cocktail mixed, now it’s time to get your tox! If it’s your first time, you might be a little nervous. We get that! Think: small bee sting. Botox treatment takes approximately 3-5 minutes from start to finish, depending on the number of areas to be treated. Most patients open their eyes and say “that’s it?” Yep! Easy peasy, and you’re on your way to smoother lines and fewer wrinkles. This is often the shortest part of the entire appointment, and we offer several methods of comfort to help ease the anxious feelings!
post-treatment
There are a lot of things that you read about “what-not-to-do” after botox. Let’s clear those up:
+ No physical activity for 24 hours after treatment. This is to prevent your Botox from moving out of the muscles. Leisurely walks, bike rides, and yard work are perfectly okay. Unless of course… you’d prefer them not to be. Take a day to recharge. We all need a little R&R. Nurses orders!
+ No pressure on the injection sights. Avoid jade rollers, facials, massages, or tight-fitted hats to prevent Botox migration.
+ You should expect “full” results within 7-10 days of treatment, with full results by 2 weeks. Botox is typically metabolized within 90-120 days, which is why we recommend patients come in every 3 months to ensure they never get back to full movement.
book before you leave
Botox is wonderful–one of the best anti-aging methods second to medical grade skincare/spf. However, the long term benefits are only possible if you invest in maintaining it! A SKINvestment, if you will. Book your 90 day appointment before you leave and make time for your self care. One treatment will not keep those lines away but with regular maintenance, lines and wrinkles will fade over time.