How to Get Subtle, Natural Looking Results from BOTOX®

One of the most popular cosmetic treatments in the world is BOTOX^®. The Los Angeles-area team at Cosmetic Surgery Institute explains that one reason for its routine application is its simplicity: The injectable gently relaxes the facial muscles that contract and cause dynamic wrinkles to form on areas such as the forehead and around the eyes. Once the prescription medication begins to work within a few days, movement is reduced, and facial skin smooths out as a result.

It’s also one of the most well-known cosmetic procedures available because of its history and proven track record. Approved by the FDA for smoothing frown lines in 2002, BOTOX^® currently has been used for cosmetic treatments for two decades.

Despite its longevity and track record, there are still people who are considering it as a treatment for their wrinkles, but who are worried that they might end up looking “frozen” or “expressionless.” This is because of the persistent myth that BOTOX^® always looks unnatural. There are several ways to avoid ending up with a “stiff” facial appearance. Continue scrolling for some tips to make your BOTOX^® look as natural as possible.

Choose an Experienced Injector

How natural or unnatural your results look depends heavily on the ability and experience of the person providing the injections. The best thing you can do if you want your BOTOX^® results to look as undetectable and normal as possible is to go to an injector who has experience with injectables in general and BOTOX^® specifically. An injector with official training and plenty of real-world applications of the injectable can ensure the medication is introduced into the right areas in the right amounts. Schedule a face-to-face consultation to find out whether your potential injector’s cosmetic philosophy aligns with yours and ensure that they’re collaborating with you to help you achieve your goals. Do some research on their previous work (viewing before-and-after galleries can be immensely helpful) while also assessing their credentials and experience. 

Plan Ahead

You need to talk about your goals with your injector. BOTOX^® might seem very simple and straightforward, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all kind of treatment. The plan that worked well for someone else may not necessarily be a good fit for you. Everyone’s anatomy and features are unique, so you’ll need to create a plan with your injector during your initial consultation. Be upfront about your goals and don’t be afraid to ask any questions you may have. It’s important that your injector understands your aesthetic desires and that you have a clear understanding of what BOTOX^® can and can’t do. Your injector will consider your age and other demographics, as well as the depth of your facial wrinkles, to decide whether botulinum toxin injectables or other types of cosmetic treatments would be best for enhancing your appearance. 

Know What You Need to Ask

These days, many patients prefer the most subtle, barely noticeable results possible from wrinkle injections. Most of the time, good injectors will prefer to use a small amount of BOTOX^® rather than “overdoing” it, and some will advise patients to spread their treatments out. When it comes to BOTOX^®, less is more—and if too much is used, the “overload” can lead to unnatural-looking results, so it’s important that doses are carefully measured. If you’re afraid of ending up with an overdone look, ask your injector to start off with a light to moderate dose, especially if you’re new to injectables. You can always return for repeat injections later and gradually increase treatments once you’re familiar with the effects.

Placement of the injections will also have a major impact on the overall appearance of your face, so some injectors prefer to focus on the forehead area while avoiding the areas around the eyes at first for the most subtle look. 

Want to learn more about what to expect from BOTOX^® and how to emphasize a natural look? Contact the Cosmetic Surgery Institute by calling (760) 837-0364 or sending a form online to schedule an appointment.