While ageing is something that is not preventable or reversible, there are procedures which exist to help prolong our naturally youthful look! Such treatments include laser procedures which can assist in collagen regeneration to plump up our skin, fillers to contour our face, and of course, Botox injections to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Some individuals may be wary of Botox treatments in Singapore, worried that it may cause their face to look ‘frozen’ or permanently surprised, but that should not happen if done under the right hands. Here are 11 facts about Botox to help you understand more about this treatment that many have lauded as being a game-changer for their looks!
Botox is a Neurotoxin
Botox is actually derived from a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum, which is a type of anaerobic Gram positive bacillus which forms spores. While a single gram of the Clostridium botulinum bacteria can kill more than one million people when evenly dispersed and inhaled, it is much less lethal when it is purified into the Botox treatment in Singapore, also called Botulinum Type A.
This Type A derivative contains just 1 out of the 8 types of botulinum toxin produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacteria and does not produce the same life-threatening harm to the body! Instead of paralysing our respiratory muscles, it reduces the activity of the muscles that it is specifically injected into to help improve facial features.
Botox is Safe – Under the Right Circumstances
For Botox to be safe and effective, you have to be the right person for treatment! From 1989 to 2003, the FDA reported only 36 cases of severe adverse effects from cosmetic Botox injections out of the 1031 events reported regarding side effects after Botox use. Half of these severe adverse effects were related to underlying medical conditions instead, which is why our initial consultation is necessary before proceeding with treatment. This ensures you are suitable for Botox.
Anyone Can Get Botox
If you are above 18 years old and generally healthy without any medical complications, Botox can be a great addition to your skincare regime! Those in their early 20s and 30s choose to get Botox in Singapore as a form of preventative care, to reduce the risk of wrinkles developing early on.
You Won’t Look Expressionless
Botox binds to the receptors of nerve endings and blocks the release of acetylcholine which delivers signals for muscle contraction. This causes the relaxation of the muscles that it is injected into, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles which are caused by constant muscle contractions of the face. Since Botox is not injected into every single muscle of your face, this will not cause you to look expressionless.
Botox Won’t Fully Remove Your Wrinkles
Botox cannot fully eliminate all your wrinkles, as there are other contributing factors for wrinkles. Another contributing reason for wrinkles is the sagging of your skin due to loss of collagen and elastin over time. As Botox addresses the muscles underneath your skin, you may choose to have other laser or filler procedures done to further enhance the amount of collagen present.
Botox is A Brand Name
Botox is the only FDA-approved procedure for treating frown lines and crow’s feet. It has undergone stringent pharmaceutical testing to prove that it is effective and safe for both therapeutic and cosmetic use! Yes, Botox is not only used for aesthetic purposes – many people have found relief from their excessive sweating, migraines, and spasticity through Botox. It is also a brand that is approved by the Health Science Authority (HSA) in Singapore for use in medical and cosmetic procedures.
Your Face Will Feel Funny
Some people will report these sensations after Botox:
- Numbness or tightness
- Tingly feeling
- Heaviness
It is normal as the muscles get used to not being able to contract fully on command, and should go off within the week.
Men Also Get Botox
Men may choose to get Botox if they have overactive jaw muscles that causes their face to look imbalanced. Slimming down the sides of the jawline can give a man a more chiselled appearance which isn’t too square or too round. Botox for men has increased from 9.2% to 11.5% percent from 2005 to 2014, showing its growing popularity!
Multiple Sessions Are Required
Botox is naturally metabolised by your body, being processed by the liver and kidneys over time. This gives Botox an average working span of 6 to 9 months before the effects gradually wear off, and for that reason, a maintenance session is recommended every 6 months to maintain results.
You Get What You Pay For
Although Botox is charged per unit – a general forehead region may require 10 to 30 units of Botox – what you are paying for is not just the material cost, but the experience of the injector. Professional doctors spend hours perfecting their art for your safety and beauty, so choosing aesthetic treatments just based on the lowest price offered in the market may come at a risk. Choose clinics who have licensed professionals and a good reputation!
Know How Many Units You’re Getting
The number of units depends on the areas of treatment. Larger areas or bigger muscles require more units of Botox. Too many units in too small of an area, and you risk getting stuck with the ‘frozen’ look of Botox gone wrong. Your initial consultation will help both you and your doctor to understand just how many units of Botox you need. As Goldilocks would say – not too much, not too little, just right.
Will You Get Botox?
In the hands of an experienced aesthetic doctor, the right amount of Botox done at the right locations can give you a more youthful appearance and balanced features. It can be done over your face, calves, and even your arms! Combined with treatments to make your skin more bouncy or fillers that plump up certain areas to give you a glowing V-shaped face, there can be endless possibilities. Knowing these 11 facts about Botox in Singapore, always seek a consultation with a professional. At SL Aesthetic, we take your health and beauty seriously – book an appointment today.
