Botox – Safety, Indications and Common Questions
What is Botox?
Botox is the trade name of botulinum toxin type A , a protein produced by a bacterium that has been used in medicine for over 40 years. There are also other medications containing botulinum toxin like Dysport or Alluzience. In aesthetic dermatology, it is best known for treating wrinkles, but its first medical uses were in neurological conditions (strabismus, migraines, hyperhidrosis).
In small doses injected into selected muscle groups, “Botox” temporarily relaxes the muscles responsible for so-called “dynamic” wrinkles – those caused by repetitive facial expressions.
Where is it indicated in aesthetic dermatology?
- Forehead lines (horizontal lines on the forehead).
- Glabellar lines (“frown lines” or “elevens”).
- Crow’s feet (around the eyes).
- Bunny lines (at the base of the nose).
- Brow lifting (eyebrow shaping).
- Masseter reduction (for women with a “square” jaw or bruxism).
What about non-aesthetic uses?
Worth knowing: Botox has important medical indications beyond aesthetics:
- Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the underarms, palms, or soles).
- Chronic migraine (with a specific protocol).
- Various neurological and ophthalmological disorders.
Is it safe?
Yes – with two prerequisites: correct indication and an experienced doctor. When administered by a specialised dermatologist, with the correct dose and at the correct sites, “Botox” is one of the most studied and safe aesthetic treatments worldwide, with decades of clinical experience.
Common, mild side effects may include temporary redness, a small bruise at the injection site, or a mild headache within the first 24 hours. Rarely, if treatment is not performed correctly, temporary brow or eyelid ptosis (drooping) may occur – which is why choosing an experienced doctor is critical.
How long do the results last?
Usually 4-6 months. The exact duration depends on individual metabolism, the area treated, and the dose. With repeated use, the muscles gradually become “trained”, and many patients find that the effect lasts longer.
Common questions
Will my face look “frozen”?
No – provided treatment is done in moderation. The goal is not to make wrinkles disappear entirely, but to soften them subtly, while preserving the natural expression of the face. This is called the “natural look” and is the modern standard in aesthetic dermatology.
At what age should I start?
There is no “magic number”. Most commonly, people start in their late 20s or early 30s, when the first static wrinkles begin to appear even without expression. “Preventive” use can delay the formation of deeper wrinkles later in life.
How long does the session take?
The Botox injection itself takes about 10-15 minutes. With preparation and consultation, the full visit lasts 30-45 minutes.
What should I avoid afterwards?
For the first 4-6 hours: avoid strenuous exercise, bending over, facial massage, and lying down. Most patients return to their normal activities immediately.
Is the advice “don’t laugh after Botox” correct?
No – it is a myth. Normal facial muscle movement does not affect Botox distribution.
Conclusion
Botox is a well-established, safe, and subtle treatment – when delivered correctly. The choice of doctor is the most important criterion: a specialised dermatologist understands facial anatomy in depth and can plan a result that is natural and honours your own features rather than altering them.
At your first appointment, we discuss your specific concerns and expectations in detail – and decide together whether, and how, Botox is the right choice for you.
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See all our aesthetic treatments on the Aesthetic Dermatology page.