Once upon a time, the mere mention of Botox was met with hushed tones and raised eyebrows, especially within communities of colour. Thankfully, in today's era of radical transparency and openness on social media, we're shattering taboos and engaging in candid conversations about cosmetic procedures.

Before embarking on your Botox journey, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Patience is Key

Contrary to popular belief, Botox doesn't yield instant results. While you won't immediately lose control of your muscles post-injection, it takes a few days for the magic to unfold. Different muscles also respond at varying speeds. Expect to see noticeable improvements in your skin's appearance within 3-4 days, with the full effect manifesting around the 14-day mark.

 You may experience headaches

 While not everyone experiences it, some individuals report what feels like a persistent headache post-treatment. But fear not—this is a common short-term side effect as the toxin initially prompts muscle spasm before ushering in complete paralysis. Most of these headaches are mild and typically dissipate within a few days.

Get off pain meds

Ahead of your Botox appointment, you shouldn’t be on ibuprofen or aspirin. Blood thinners heighten the risk of bruising post-injection, so it's wise to steer clear of them for 3-5 days before and at least a day afterward. Common blood thinning medications include (but are not limited to):

• Aspirin 
• Excedrin
• Ibuprofen 
• Naproxen 
• Celecoxib 
• Fish/krill oil/Omega 3’s
• Glucosamine
• Vitamin E
• Garlic
• Ginkgo
• Ginseng

Rest and relaxation post appointment

While soreness and fatigue may accompany your Botox session, it's essential to steer clear of reclining for the initial four hours. Why? Well, lounging about can inadvertently spread the toxin, potentially resulting in bruising at the injection site. While relaxation is encouraged, it's best to resist the allure of your bed—tempting as it may be to indulge in a quick nap. Opt instead for a comfortable seated position to ensure optimal results and minimise any post-treatment bruising.

Botox indeed offers a splendid option for maintaining a youthful visage and combating the effects of aging, such as sagging skin and diminished fat volume. As we gracefully age, our bone density, collagen production, and skin elasticity gradually wane. It's essential to do your due diligence, invest wisely in your facial care, and seek out top-tier professionals when considering injectables.