As the number one aesthetic treatment in the entire world, Botox is something that most people have personally tried or have heard of. It has such a variety of uses that it almost seems like a miracle treatment. If you are considering treatment or even if you are a seasoned patient, there are always tips to keep in mind when getting a treatment, namely: how is a treatment tailored to you?
For an introduction on Botox and what it is, our Botox 101 blog post is a great starting point.
Read More: What is Botox?
How much Botox is right for me?
“How much Botox is right for me” is a question that you should be asking. The truth of the matter is, each individual’s treatment needs are unique. Wrinkle patterns, anatomical differences, treatment expectations, and budget are some of the top factors that influence treatment for each person.
Basic recommendations are: 20 units Botox for the forehead, 20 units Botox for the glabella (between the eyebrows), and 12 units Botox per side for the crow’s feet. These dosages were determined through FDA clinical trials to be sufficient amounts to achieve statistically effective wrinkle improvement for the prescribed 3-4 month time period. Because clinical trials are conducted on a range of participants, this means that by and large, these dosages will be largely effective for most people. Each brand of neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, Daxxify, Xeomin) may have slightly different effective time periods, dosing, and time needed to kick in.
Read More: Botox vs. Dysport
However, recommended dosages does NOT mean that these are hard guidelines for every treatment. It is always possible to treat an area with less units (hence the range of units per area in the above graphic), as long as reasonable outcome expectations are set. Undertreating an area allows some retention of muscle movement (this is what is perceived as a “natural look”), but may also mean treatments don’t last as long. If an area is very large or wrinkles are very pronounced, especially for first-time patients, it may be necessary to treat an area with more than the recommended amounts. For example, some individuals may have ptosis (weakness of the upper eyelid) or a short forehead, which may mean that the forehead should be treated with less units. If treatments are regularly scheduled, you may find that less units are needed to maintain compared to your first treatment.
At the end of the day, what this means is that you should be going to a trusted provider who can tailor treatment to your anatomy and expectations. For all that it seems like a few, simple pokes, Botox is not a formulaic treatment. Some health conditions or existing anatomical differences may possibly mean that alternative treatments should be explored. Being an informed patient will help you understand your treatment and how to communicate effectively with your provider to achieve a result you love.
Read More: Unconventional Botox Treatment Areas
If you are looking for personalized Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin treatments in Los Angeles, give DSC a call! Our medical providers are experts at tailoring treatments to help you achieve beautiful, harmonious results.
DSC Laser & Skin Care Center
www.dscbeauty.com
(626)285-0800
info@dscbeauty.com
889 S. San Gabriel Blvd, San Gabriel, CA 91776
