Is Having Botox Treatments Really Worth It?

Before we dive into the pros and cons debate around Botox treatments, we thought you would benefit from a brief, but highly informative, 'History of Botox' lesson. So, here it goes: Research into the effectiveness of Botulinum Toxin Type A to treat muscle-related conditions began in the 1970’s. It was then discovered that this neurotoxin could be administered in small doses to treat deep frown lines. With scores of Hollywood endorsements and spa-clinic openings over the last two decades, we have effectively seen the Botox revolution. This injectable drug is now fast becoming a high-demand product in South Africa, as both men and women are seeking out ways to achieve that ever-elusive youthful glow.

Now that you have the historical facts, let's delve into how exactly Botox works as a cosmetic treatment:

Botox is injected into the forehead, around the eyes or between the eyebrows. The injection is supposedly equal to the pain level of an elastic band being struck against your skin (don’t hold us to this - everyone’s pain threshold is different). The neurotoxin works by blocking the junction between the muscle and the nerve, preventing muscle fibres from being able to contract, which causes wrinkles. The treatment takes approximately 2 days to start taking effect, and about a week to give full effect. It also wears off after a period of 3 - 4 months, depending on your metabolic rate and the dose given. While we have not undergone Botox treatments ourselves, we have done extensive research on the benefits and side effects of this cosmetic wonder drug. The grand consensus seems to be that every person will have a unique reaction to the drug. However, most who undergo the treatment report that they are happy with the outcome, in spite of suffering a few side effects.

The possible immediate, but temporary side-effects of receiving Botox treatments, include:

• Redness, swelling and bruising around the treated areas of the face.

Less commonly reported side-effects, include:

• Allergic reaction
• Persistent headaches
• Droopy eyelid - This is caused by a localised spread of the toxin beyond the injected area, which causes an eyelid droop. 

Where to have Botox treatments

If you are ready to brave the needle, contact these treatment clinics for a consultation:

New You Skincare Clinic

Price: R70 per unit Where: 54 Van Buuren Road, Bedfordview, or 82 Vorster Avenue, Glenanda Contact: Bedfordview Tel: .011 455 2301 | Email: [email protected], Glenanda Tel: 011 432 0380, Email: [email protected] Click here for more information.

The Melrose Aesthetic Centre

**Inquire for pricing. Where: 3rd Floor, Centre for Medical Excellence, 18 The High Street, Melrose Arch Contact: Tel: 0861 372 6869 / 011 214 9940 | Email: [email protected] Click here for more information. Please consult a medical professional before undergoing any medical treatment. We are journalists, and only write about what we love.