Frequently asked questions

Botox® is a protein that is natural and has been purified. It is registered and is available via
prescription only. Botox® improves skin appearance by relaxing muscles that can cause wrinkles. It's
derived from bacteria (under sterile laboratory conditions) in a similar way that penicillin is derived
from mould. The active ingredient is called botulinum toxin.
A lot of wrinkles in the face occur when we make facial expressions repeatedly. Botox® is used to
relax the facial muscles that cause lines and wrinkles. With the use of Botox®, facial lines are
softened and facial appearance is improved. When muscles in the face are relaxed, they cannot
contract so new lines/wrinkles are prevented from forming.
Generally botox lasts between 3-4 months. On some individuals it may last as long as 6 months. With
repeated Botox® treatments, the effect has the tendency to last longer.
The use of Botox® involves a very small needle injected into certain facial muscles. Some minor
discomfort may be experienced, but this is very brief. Some Women who are premenstrual may be a
little more sensitive to these injections. It is recommended that caffeine be avoided prior to having
the treatment.
When will I notice the difference? Most individuals will start to notice a difference 2-3 days after treatment. The time it takes for effects to show varies upon individuals, however, the full effect should be seen after one week. Can Botox® cause the development of more wrinkles? No, Botox® won’t cause more wrinkles to form. However, if you choose not to receive any further
Botox®, your wrinkles will eventually return back to the same appearance they were prior to
treatment.
Will Botox® affect facial expressions? Botox® only affects the particular muscles being treated. Therefore, untreated facial muscles will not
be affected by Botox®. The Doctor will develop a specific treatment regime which can produce the
most optimal results for you as an individual.
With regard to the usual amount of Botox® used, any side effects are normally temporary and
localised to the area of treatment. These side effects can include burning, headaches, pain, bruising or
redness at the site of injection, local muscle weakness (includes drooping eyelids), local numbness,
nausea & skin tightness.
Although Botox® in this case is used for cosmetic purposes, it can also be used as a therapy for other
medical conditions such as Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), Cerebral palsy & various movement
disorders.

Is it possible to combine Botox® with other products and procedures?
Yes, but whether or not this enhances the cosmetic outcome, however, depends on the individual. For any further enquires about specific products or procedures, it is recommended that you seek advise from your Doctor.

Source: http://www.nzskinhealthclinic.co.nz/uploads/PDFs/FrequentlyAskedQuestions.pdf