Botox is a many-storied thing, with pop culture lending its fair share of (mis)representations. And as preventative injections are performed on women younger and younger, it’s important to ask: Do we really know what we’re doing?
Evolus expects Jeuveau to be priced between 20 and 25 percent lower than Botox and is likely to be available throughout the United States at physician offices starting Spring 2019, the company said.
That’s why we turned to the leading doctors in New York to answer all our Botox questions. Dr. Todd is the creator of his own line of products and has his own practice.
People talk a big game about preventative Botox. At what age should we really start?
“There is no set age; everyone’s skin is different. Genetic makeup, lifetime sun exposure, skin care regimen — they’re all factors in determining the first appearance of lines on the forehead, eyes, mouth, etc.”
“When you’re younger, you may have lines and wrinkles only when you move for face… but as we age, continued movements can cause these to become permanent fixtures. Using Botox early can prevent those lines from becoming ingrained. It’s all stopping that wear and tear to prevent this progression of aging.”
What’s the difference between Botox and fillers?
“Dynamic wrinkles occur when we use our facial muscles to smile or frown… and can be treated using Botox to block the nerve impulses that cause activity and, therefore, lines. Static wrinkles are those that can be seen when the face is at rest — Nasolabial folds, or laugh lines, are a good example. These are treated with dermal fillers, not Botox, as fillers literally fill in the depleted area and plump out the skin. It’s not uncommon for a combination of Botox and fillers to be used during one treatment session.”
And if we do decide to get Botox, how should one find a provider?
“Ask a friend or family member. The best way is to find a provider whose results you’ve seen firsthand. Then make sure a medical doctor — not a registered nurse or technician — examines and consults you. The use of prescriptive injections is the practice of medicine. Also make sure the Botox you’re being injected with is the authentic product manufactured by Allergan Authentic Botox vials have an Allergan hologram, lot number and expiration date.”