Botox and Azzalure are brand names. The active substance in each is Botulium Toxin, a substance used for the treatment of neurological conditions since 1973, and more recently, since the 1990s, to treat wrinkles. Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles, causing the muscle and the skin covering it to relax. This softens the appearance of existing wrinkles and prevents new ones from forming. Muscle activity is fully restored after a few months.
What kinds of wrinkles does it target?
Botox® is particularly effective in treating frown lines, forehead wrinkles and crow’s feet. It can also be used on fine lines on the nose and chin. With this treatment, wrinkles are softened by up to 90-95% on average. Botox® is not suitable for treating nasolabial folds (laugh lines) or wrinkles on the cheeks. Because muscle activity in these areas is indispensable, we recommend Restylane fillers as an alternative treatment option.
Areas
A treatment ‘area’ might be, for example, frown lines on the forehead or crow’s feet by the eyes. The area around both eyes counts as one area in this case. An eyebrow lift or lines on the nose or corners of the mouth count as a half area, as the amount of Botox required in these cases is lower.
Treatment
Botox is injected into the muscle through a tiny needle. Most people do not experience pain, but there is the option for the practitioner to apply an anaesthetic cream. Following the treatment – which lasts around five minutes – reddening of the skin can occur as a result of the needles. This usually disappears within the hour. Occasionally, very slight bruising is experienced, which lasts three to five days.
Effects
The Botox will start to take effect a few days after the treatment. The effects on the muscle are at their peak after two weeks, when the effects of the treatment can be reviewed. A follow-up consultation can be arranged to see whether any corrective treatment is required. Botox lasts on average between three and six months. Over this period, you will notice your skin become smoother and smoother. Most people will need a treatment every five months to retain appearance achieved. Deep wrinkles might initially require more frequent treatment; every three to five months. It is common for the desired effect to last longer after multiple treatments.