Wrinkles are an inevitable part of life, as our skin ages and loses its elasticity. The formation of wrinkles is dependent on many factors, including the person’s genetics,skin type, lifestyle, skincare, gender, and how they manage stress. The wrinkles that appear on the face first are expression wrinkles, which are usually caused by the increased activity in facial expressions. It is the frequent movement of facial muscles that causes the skin to crease, leading to wrinkles. With more active facial expressions, wrinkles form earlier. Something as simple as squinting due to poor eyesight may contribute to the formation of facial wrinkles. Initial wrinkles are usually noticeable by age 20-25 and deepen by 30-45.

Wrinkles on the skin can be caused by a variety of factors, one of the main ones being muscle activity. To reduce the appearance of wrinkles, different ways to influence the muscle tissue can be used. One of the most effective treatments is an injection of botulinum toxin, or Botox. A Botox procedure at our Richmond Hill clinic relaxes the muscle tissues and prevents the formation of wrinkles by blocking the signals from the nerves to the muscles. This leads to the tissues tightening and smoothing, resulting in a much improved appearance.

Botox injections are a popular way to reduce deep wrinkles and facial lines. The effects of Botox are usually seen within 5-7 days after the injection, with the full result usually visible within two weeks. Individual characteristics of the person’s organism can affect when the Botox begins to act, however; in some cases it may take effect as soon as on the second day, while in others it may take as long as a month. Those with a history of botulism or those who have received large doses of Botox for medical reasons may be insensitive to Botox. Fortunately this makes up less than 1% of people, for the vast majority of people Botox injections provide impressive results with minimal risk.

The main impediments to Botox injections include:

• Sensitivity to the medication or its components
• Inflammation in the area to be treated
• Damage to the skin at the injection site
• Being pregnant or in the lactation period
• Adverse neuromuscular effects
• Severe myopia
• Certain medications (in particular antibiotics and antiaggregant)
• Any disease or acute illness (autoimmune disease; clotting disorders, chronic lung abnormalities; diabetes)
• Being under the age of 18 (in some cases Botox use may be approved for medical purposes)

You can rest assured that you will be able to go back to your normal routine right after the Botox injection procedure. While the injection itself is quick and easy, it takes several hours or even a day for the Botox to fully distribute through the tissues. For optimal results, we recommend that you adhere to the following restrictions:

• Do not lie down or sleep (3-4 hours)
• Refrain from taking medications that affect blood clotting
• Avoid the use of alcohol (1 day)
• Do not touch the skin at the injection site (2 days)
• Do not tilt your head down for extended periods of time (for example to clean floors) (2 days)
• Do not exercise (2 days)
• Avoid direct or sustained heat, such as a hot bath, sauna, or direct hot air from a hairdryer (10 days)

If you are interested in a Botox injection, visit our beauty clinic specializing in Botox in the Richmond Hill and Vaughan areas. We are located at the intersection of Dufferin and Major MacKenzie Dr. West (beside the Yummy Market). Give us a call to schedule your free consultation regarding Botox.