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November 23, 2022Sometimes people ask, “what is baby Botox?” Basically, “baby Botox” refers to a practice where your provider injects smaller doses of Botox for a more subtle effect.
The resulting look is often more natural since the provider injects tiny doses in more injection sites. The wrinkles are somewhat smoothed, but you can still make facial expressions.
We hope this article makes you a little more aware of the range of possibilities. It isn’t a substitute for an individual consultation since we are all unique. Often when people think of Botox, they imagine the most dramatic version of it with highly arched brows and immobile faces. In reality, this is a misconception.
There is such a range depending on both the dosage and placement of the Botox injections. Most people who opt for full traditional Botox get natural-looking results in the hands of a skilled provider. Baby Botox is an alternative for an even more natural aesthetic.
What is Baby Botox?
Sometimes people are surprised to learn that Botox has many cosmetic and therapeutic applications. In addition to smoothing wrinkles, doctors or dentists use it to treat chronic headaches, chronic tooth grinding, excessive sweating, and other conditions. The treatment is versatile. Not only does it have different applications, but different doses make a difference.
Baby Botox is popular among younger people, including those in their early twenties who want the smoothing effect or to prevent the development of premature expression lines. It is also an attractive entry point for people who haven’t had Botox before and are uneasy about the possibility of an unnatural look. This is why some refer to it as “entry-level” Botox.
“Baby Botox” is used to treat the face, particularly to subtly smooth expression lines on the forehead, crow’s feet around the eyes, eyebrow furrows, jawbone, around the lips, and frown lines. The result is less dramatic than classic Botox since the muscles are not relaxed quite as much.
How to Find a Baby Botox Provider
When you talk with a Botox provider, first always ask about the certifications and background. A few different kinds of medical and cosmetic specialists can provide Botox, and since so many of the results depend on the provider’s skill, be sure to ask.
You need a provider with a thorough knowledge of facial anatomy. There are individual variations in how and where the face wrinkles, partially depending on genetics, your most common facial expressions, and lifestyle. A provider with extensive knowledge of facial anatomy can customize your injection placement, making the smaller doses more effective.
Next, ask about the “type” of Botox used, as there are “cheap” versions out there. For “baby Botox,” you want high-quality material for your injection.
Discuss your aesthetic goals during your consultation or at the beginning of your appointment. This helps ensure you and your provider are on the same page.
Like any cosmetic procedure, it is essential that you have realistic expectations about your results from baby Botox. For some people, the treatment is ideal, while others may have facial lines that are too deeply etched to respond well to the smaller dose. A consultation is a perfect time to explore this and learn more about the type of results you can realistically expect.
When it comes to your face, one size fits all isn’t reality. This is why a provider with more experience and expertise in facial structure will be able to give you a more bespoke treatment.
Preparing for Baby Botox and Maintaining Your Results
Minor bruising at an injection site is one of the most common side effects of Botox. Any bruises should fade within a few days, and some find they can be covered with makeup. Of course, bruising reactions are so individual.
To minimize the risk of bruising, avoid drinking wine or alcohol the week before your injections. Also, minimize the use of non-prescription anti-inflammatory supplements and medications.
Depending on how you respond to Botox, it may take anywhere from a few days to a week to see the results. The treatment may last anywhere from a couple of months to several months. Usually, people need new injections after three months to maintain the results.
Since Botox is minimally invasive, you shouldn’t experience any downtime. However, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of both common and rare side effects. Avoid working out for the rest of the day after your injection. Also, avoid laying down for at least three hours afterward, and try to sleep on your back that night. Use a gentle cleanser and avoid cosmetics for the rest of the day. Also, stay out of the sun as much as possible for the next day or two. These temporary actions are just to give your skin time to heal and to reduce the risk of swelling.
Schedule a Consultation to Learn if It’s Right for You
Sometimes people are surprised to learn that a dentist may be the ideal Botox provider. After all, a dentist has extensive knowledge of the muscles, bones, and nerves in the face.
The profession requires precision and a steady hand. In fact, dentists sometimes use Botox therapeutically for some conditions. A cosmetic dentist is skilled at applying aesthetic concepts like proportion and balance daily. Many patients enjoy the extra convenience of going to the same practice for Botox as they do for another tooth whitening.
During your consultation, be frank with your provider about any allergies you have, supplements and prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking, and medical conditions. Your provider needs to know whether there is anything that might make the injections less safe or less effective.
Southview Dentistry is pleased to offer Botox services to Charlotte, NC, residents along with cosmetic dentistry services. We want you to look and feel your best. A bright smile and a smooth face help you confidently face the world! Call us today to schedule your Botox consultation.