Muscle relaxing injections such as Botox are very popular in the aesthetics industry and can help to eliminate wrinkles around the eyes, nose, eyebrows, and forehead. In the medical community, Botox continues to amaze as it provides additional therapeutic benefits for migraines, excessive sweating, and back pain.
One of the most frequently asked questions we receive about muscle relaxing injections at The Bodywork Clinic is, “how long do muscle relaxing injections last?” Below, we touch upon the timeframe and longevity of such injections as well as the additional benefits they can bring to patients.
Botox is a prescription-only medication used mainly on the face to treat wrinkles and fine lines. This means it can only be administered by a suitably qualified practitioner. It works by temporarily relaxing muscles which results in smoother skin and a youthful glow. Muscle relaxants are administered using a very small needle to inject specific toxins. Softening the severity of muscles in the face can stop ageing in its tracks; however, for deeper lines, dermal fillers are recommended.
Muscle relaxing injections are a very popular treatment method in the UK and help to boost the confidence of many clients who struggle with appearance-related issues. As we get older, our skin loses elasticity and stops producing as much collagen. Both elastin and collagen are what help to keep skin tight and smooth.
Wrinkles and fine lines can be caused by repeated facial expressions as we non-verbally communicate. This can cause a big insecurity for many. Frowning, smiling, and squinting, are all known to cause superficial wrinkles, also known as dynamic wrinkles, but over time these wrinkles deepen and are present even when the muscles are relaxed. At this stage, they are referred to as static lines or wrinkles at rest. Although this is an unavoidable part of ageing, muscle relaxing injections can help to reduce the appearance of these unwanted lines, ultimately boosting self-esteem and body confidence in a wide range of patients.
Muscle relaxing injections
In the UK, there are a wide variety of muscle relaxants used, such as Vistabel and Botox. At The Bodywork Clinic, we use Allergan’s Botox. Botox is FDA approved for the three most common treatment areas in aesthetics (the upper face), was the first neurotoxin approved for aesthetic use, and has more than 500 peer-reviewed articles. Muscle relaxing injections, specifically Botox, work by binding to the nerve terminal on the specific muscle it is injected into. This blocks the release of acetylcholine and temporarily relaxes the muscle, resulting in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.
After the muscle relaxing injection procedure is complete, you can begin to see results in as little as 48 hours. However, most patients tend to notice changes around days 5 to 7 post-treatment. The maximum effects can be seen between days 10 to 14 post-treatment. As with any procedure, there are side effects, though your practitioner will discuss this in more detail with you. Botox is considered a safe procedure and typical side effects range from swelling to bruising which usually subsides in just a number of days.
How long do the effects last
On average, muscle relaxing injections last for around three to four months though this is specific to each client and depends on how quickly the nerve impulse terminals connect over time. Longevity to any aesthetic treatment is individualised and things such as over-exposure to the sun and smoking can dramatically affect the results.
Whilst these things don’t have an immediate effect on the results of muscle relaxing injections, over time, they can shorten the benefits. Smoking will also cause more wrinkles and fine lines to present as it deprives the skin of oxygen and key nutrients.
To further the effects of your muscle relaxing injection treatment, we recommend paying close attention to the advice given by your practitioner. This includes:
- Abstaining from excessive physical activity and exercise for at least two days once your treatment is complete.
- Not applying makeup to or around the injected site for at least 12 hours.
- Avoiding direct sunlight.
Physical exercise and exposure to sunshine before and after treatment are advised against because they boost blood circulation, ultimately causing the solution to metabolise before it has had the time to diffuse. Consistent high-stress levels can also cause the body to break down Botox more quickly and cause the ageing process to speed up. Partaking in stress-relieving activities such as yoga, mindfulness, and meditation will be recommended and can help to maximise the lifespan of your muscle relaxing treatment.
Book with confidence
Booking a consultation with The Bodywork Clinic couldn’t be easier. All we ask is that you call us on 01223 455144. A consultation allows us to work directly with you to determine what areas you want to treat with Botox and what your goals are for the procedure.
During your consultation, your practitioner will review your medical history and discuss your concerns. Rest assured this process is always carried out in the safest and most informative manner to help ease any anxiety. Your practitioner will also be able to answer any questions or queries you have about muscle relaxing injections.
As mentioned above, muscle relaxing injections such as Botox have also been scientifically proven to treat conditions such as cervical dystonia (neck spasms), hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), lazy eye, and overactive bladder. There has also been lots of research conducted into the effectiveness of Botox in preventing chronic migraines. Doctors believe Botox works to stop headaches and migraines because it blocks the neurotransmitters that carry pain signals from the brain. Essentially, Botox stops the chemicals before they reach the nerve endings in your neck and head.
Pricing for muscle relaxing injections at The Bodywork Clinic begins at around £170. If you’re interested in receiving Botox, book a free consultation with our aesthetic nurse specialist, Ruth Holt, by calling us today on 01223 455144 or submitting a consultation form through our website. Ruth has been in the aesthetics industry for over 15 years and uses only the most elite technologies to provide bespoke results for every client.