shutterstock 202742470 (1)

When preparing for the red carpet season, it takes a village. From the publicists to the stylists, makeup artists, facialists, and, of course, the dermatologists, there’s no such thing as an effortless look – it’s the result of months of effort. While most of us were reveling in the festivities of the holiday season, A-listers were hard at work preparing their bodies and faces for the most publicized events of the year.

Appearing on camera comes with perpetual scrutiny and with screens more high-def than ever, maintaining a clear complexion during the stress of awards season is often a priority for celebs. While we probably won’t find ourselves at the Oscars any time soon, the rules of the red carpet are transferable. Here, The AEDITION breaks down the cosmetic procedures and skin treatments that will have your complexion in tip-top share for any event. 

## **The Areas of Concern Before a Red Carpet Appearance**
Stars, they’re just like us! At least when it comes to skin concerns that is. Still prone to breakouts, age spots, and dry skin – especially with their hectic travel schedules – celebrities need to give their skin some TLC, too. 

New York-based board certified dermatologist [Julie Russak, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/jason-emer-md-722), notes that Hollywood’s elite can succumb to “acne issues, blackhead, pustules, stress and hormonal breakouts, pigmentation and discoloration in the skin, and dry or dehydrated skin.” So, even though celebrities might have access to the best of the best, they can’t escape the natural effects of being, well, human.

As a Hollywood-based board certified dermatologist, [Jason Emer, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/jason-emer-md-722), knows this all too well. “Many of my VIP patients are wanting their skin to look flawless on camera, especially in today’s high-def world,” Dr. Emer explains. “We address hyperpigmentation, discoloration caused by sun damage or age, melasma, and acne scars with a carefully curated combo of treatments.” 

He advises a series of tweakments in the weeks prior to an event. “The treatments that cause small injury to the skin to promote cell turnover and natural anti-aging through the healing process are the treatments that are most effective,” he says. “It’s important to allow for enough downtime to prevent appearing pink, scaly, or dry on the carpet.”

## **Cosmetic Treatments to Get Before a Red Carpet or Big Event**
So, what can really be done in a short period of time that will produce great results without you looking ‘done’? Whether there’s a red carpet in your future or you have a wedding or special occasion on the calendar, these are the minimally invasive treatments dermatologists recommend if you’re looking for a quick skin boost.

### **1. Neurotoxin Injections**
By and large one of the most well-known anti-aging treatments for a youthful look, [Botox® and its competitors](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin) work to reduce the appearance of wrinkles by paralyzing the underlying muscles. According to board certified dermatologist [Nikhil Dhingra, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/nikhil-dhingra-md-17376), of Manhattan’s at Spring Street Dermatology, the best timeline for neurotoxin injections is a month prior to your event. “Botox® takes a full two weeks to take on its full form,” he shares. “Any touch-ups needed at that two-week mark take at least one to two weeks to show as well, so aim for a month prior to an event.” Another note: the results are temporary. Injections need to be redone every three to four months.

### **2. Radiofrequency Microneedling** 
Microneedling helps with the production of collagen through the penetration of small needles that into the skin. Pairing it with radiofrequency helps to further stimulate the body’s natural collagen production to create more rejuvenated skin. Favorited for its ability to create firmer skin with a low risk for side effects, Dr. Emer recommends [RF microneedling](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-radiofrequency) two to three weeks before the big event for peak results.  

### **3. Chemical Peel**
Performed about three weeks in advance, a mild chemical peel can help treat minor skin discolorations and uneven skin texture. [As we’ve covered before](https://aedit.com/aedition/chemical-peel-vs-laser-treatment-what-is-best-for-your-skin), chemical peels are a skin resurfacing technique that can be done in a range of strengths from superficial to deep. Dr. Dhingra cautions against getting a deep chemical peel too close to the event because of the downtime associated with it penetrating the middle layer of skin. “Chemical peels are fantastic for texture and tone,” Dr. Dhingra shares. “But, with a week of downtime, give yourself ample time so you’re not shedding while facing the flashing bulbs of the media.” While a deep chemical peel has the power to remove moderate lines, freckles, age spots, and scars, a [superficial chemical peel](https://aedit.com/procedure/superficial-chemical-peels) is enough to improve the clarity and brightness of the complexion with much less downtime. The non-abrasive nature of using a mild acid to penetrate the outer layer of the skin makes it a favorite of celebs and those looking for a lunchtime treatment. 

### **4. Hydrafacial**
A [HydraFacial](https://aedit.com/procedure/hydrafacial) is a great last-minute treatment to give you a JLo-level glow. The multi-step process is both hydrating and exfoliating and involves a thorough cleansing, extractions, and serum application. Dr. Dhingra suggests getting it done in the days or weeks leading up to an event because it has a “transient effect” without much risk for irritation. “Getting in a HydraFacial a week before a big event can add glow and brightness when the lights hit,” Dr. Dhingra explains. 

### **5. PRP**
[Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-prp) is a blood plasma-based protein solution that is produced using the patient's own blood cells and is often combined with microneedling or as a part of the [Vampire Facial®](https://aedit.com/procedure/vampire-facelift) (a favorite of Kim Kardashian). The regenerative abilities of PRP are often noted by dermatologists because injecting PRP back into a patient's skin helps stimulate collagen production — giving the complexion a firming and brightening effect. For Dr. Russak, a PRP treatment is “ideally done in a series to address a variety of skincare concerns, such as brightness, pore size, superficial fine lines, and uneven tone and texture.” Give it a few weeks to work its magic as your skin begins to increase collagen production. 

### **6. Dermal Filler**
“Micro-augmentations utilizing small amounts of dermal filler such as Radiesse® or Juvederm® to subtly accentuate natural features and contour,” says Dr. Emer, will help maintain a younger appearance without looking as though any work has actually been done. [Dermal filler](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-dermal-fillers) is a great option for those who want to give their cheekbones a volumizing boost, reduce the appearance of fine lines, or plump up their lips for a more shapely pout. Juvederm® uses hyaluronic acid that can help with the appearance of crow's feet, smile lines, and worry lines, but, like all filler, it should be done several weeks in advance to let the filler fully settle and to avoid any potential bruising. 

## **Cosmetic Treatments to Avoid Before a Red Carpet or Big Event**
“Deep resurfacing treatments with [erbium](https://aedit.com/procedure/ablative-erbium-laser) or [fraxel](https://aedit.com/procedure/nonablative-fractional-lasers) lasers, [intense pulsed light (IPL)](https://aedit.com/procedure/ipl) for red and brown pigment, [Ultherapy®](https://aedit.com/procedure/ultrasound-skin-tighteningultherapy) ultrasound skin tightening, [threads](https://aedit.com/procedure/thread-lift) for lifting, [Kybella®](https://aedit.com/procedure/kybella) for submental chin fat, and [stronger chemical peels](https://aedit.com/procedure/deep-chemical-peels),” should be avoided in the weeks before a big event, explains Dr. Russak. While these procedures are quite effective, celebrities know that the camera will pick up every little detail and proper recovery time is needed for optimal results. “These are great treatments to have several months before your event,” she says. 

The most important treatments to avoid when getting ready for a high profile event? Anything that could potentially create an unexpected reaction that will have you out for the count. This means no new beauty products or facial treatments that you've never tried before. “You don’t want to end up in a scenario where you’re trying to do something to enhance your appearance that then backfires and draws attention to something you don’t want,” Dr. Dhingra says.

Instead, a well-executed, strategic procedure timeline coupled with a solid skincare routine is key. “The last tip leading up to a big event: don’t rock the boat with your skincare routine,” he advises. “A proper routine takes at least three months to work. Get that going ahead of time and stick to it through the event. You don’t want to risk an allergic reaction, extreme redness, peeling, or puffiness as a result of overzealous at-home product use.”

## **The Takeaway**
Whether you’re strutting down the red carpet at the SAG Awards or gearing up for wedding season, minimally invasive cosmetic procedures like injectables, facials, and chemical peels can give you that enviable Hollywood glow in a flash. Consulting with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon will ensure your skin is ready for the spotlight. 

AEDITION rejuvenators-min

Medical Aesthetics Collection | The AEDITION

Aesthetics

Preparing for awards season takes a village, especially when it comes to creating a camera-ready complexion. From Botox® to chemical peels, these are the treatments dermatologists recommend to get your skin red carpet – or special event – ready. 

Best Minimally Invasive Cosmetic Treatments For The Red Carpet And Special Events

The Cosmetic Treatments That Will Get You Red Carpet Ready 

shutterstock 1009468246 (1)

*Feel like you need a dictionary every time you look at the ingredient list of a beauty product? Still unsure of the difference between retinol and retinoids? What about the unique benefits of vitamins B, C, and E? Are alpha and beta hydroxy acids the same thing? The skincare aisle can be overwhelming, but you don’t need a PhD in cosmetic chemistry to navigate it. With expert help, The AEDITION is demystifying and simplifying the beauty industry — [one label at a time](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/read-the-label).*

Winter is upon us, which likely has your complexion feeling perpetually parched. And it’s not in your head. While we may curse the humidity that leaves our faces oily and hair frizzy in the summertime, the lack of it (both indoors and outdoors!) come winter leaves the skin more apt to lose what little moisture it has left. The result? Desert-like conditions that can leave skin dehydrated and dull.

But that is not to say we are resigned to a rough ride until spring. With the right skincare routine, you can counteract the effects of the cold, dry air outside and artificially heated, arid inside air that accompanies the dead of winter.

“I highly recommend ingredients that will help prevent transepidermal water loss and ingredients that provide a protective barrier on the skin,” says Valerie George, cosmetic chemist and co-host of [The Beauty Brains](https://thebeautybrains.com/), of her approach to winter skincare. Adding in an exfoliator, meanwhile, will “help remove any dry, dead skin that does occur,” she shares. 

So, what exactly should you incorporate into your skincare routine this winter to avoid a dry, pasty pallor? The AEDITION tapped George and cosmetic chemist and [BeautyStat](https://beautystat.com/) founder Ron Robinson to get their expertise on the most important ingredients of the season for face and body.

## **1 & 2. Petrolatum + Shea Butter** 
“Ingredients like petrolatum and shea butter prevent the skin from losing moisture to the ambient atmosphere when relative humidity is low by providing a protective barrier,” says George. Known for their rich, emollient properties, petrolatum is a highly purified derivative of crude oil that is FDA approved for use in skincare, while shea butter is a plant lipid extracted from the karite tree that contains triterpene esters. 

Using them in tandem has a “synergistic effect” that offers both skin protection from dry air and the healing benefits of the terpenes, she says — adding the ingredients work best when they are “left on the skin in the form of a moisturizer and not washed off down the drain.” [Vaseline](https://www.target.com/p/vaseline-original-petroleum-jelly-7-5-oz/-/A-12705213) is perhaps the best known petrolatum-based product, and we are partial to the raw, unrefined shea butter in the [Karite Creme Corps Hydrating Body Cream](https://www.thedetoxmarket.com/products/creme-corps-hydrating-body-cream). If you are prone to acne or clogged pores, George suggests using products with these ingredients sparingly on the face.

## **3. Vitamin C** 
This jack-of-all-trades antioxidant works year-round, but Robinson says topical use of the “essential nutrient” in the wintertime can “improve skin’s tone and texture.” He recommends using a facial serum containing vitamin C at least once a day on clean skin, but it is important to do your due diligence before settling on a formula. Robinson says the ingredient is “notoriously unstable” and prone to breaking down when exposed to light or air, so you’ll want to look for products that are “stable,” “have air-tight packing,” and come with “independent clinical test results.” He formulated his [BeautyStat Universal C Skin Refiner](https://beautystat.com/universal-c-skin-refiner/) with 20 percent pure vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) and EGCG (the active component of green tea), which boosts the anti-aging benefits (think: reducing the look of fine lines, firming and tightening skin, and evening tone).
 
## **4. Ceramides**
Both George and and Robinson agree that the naturally occurring lipids are a must for winter. “Applying them topically can help reinforce the barrier and moisturize the skin,” says Robinson, who notes that they are great for hydrating both the face and body. His [BeautyStat Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream](https://beautystat.com/universal-pro-bio-moisture-boost-cream/), for example, is designed to correct dryness and make skin less sensitive. “Ceramides are a natural part of the skin barrier and are essential to balanced skin,” George adds.
 
## **5. Hyaluronic Acid** 
One of the buzziest ingredients on the market today, Robinson defines hyaluronic acid (HA) as “a polysaccharide found naturally in the skin that helps keep it hydrated.” While there is no wrong time of year to incorporate HA into your regimen, winter makes particular sense because, when applied topically, “it works as a humectant — meaning it can draw and hold water to the skin's surface,” he says. Using an HA-based serum or moisturizer, like the [The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5](https://www.sephora.com/product/the-ordinary-deciem-hyaluronic-acid-2-b5-P427419) serum or [Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream](https://www.ulta.com/hydro-boost-gel-cream?productId=xlsImpprod12041837), twice a day (read: morning and night) can heal dry skin and leave it soft and supple.
 
## **6. Chemical Exfoliants** 
While it may seem counterintuitive to exfoliate dry skin, both George and Robinson say it is important to slough off dead skin cells. “If skin has been dry, I recommend a chemical exfoliant followed by a moisturizer,” George says. “This will help remove any dead, dry, and dull skin, while making sure your skin stays hydrated for the winter air.”
 
While there are an array of alpha and beta hydroxy acids (i.e. AHAs and BHAs) to choose from, Robinson suggests lactic acid because it can “both exfoliate and moisturize the skin.” As a result, he says the AHA can be “used on very rough and dry skin on the body.” He likes the [Amlactin Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion](https://www.amazon.com/AmLactin-Moisturizing-Alpha-Hydroxy-Exfoliates-Paraben-Free/dp/B07BRQC5XZ?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1&psc=1), which is formulated with 12 percent lactic acid to “leave skin smooth and hydrated.” A bit of exfoliation is important, but be careful not to over do it. “It’s important not to over exfoliate during winter, so that dry skin is not exacerbated,” George warns. “Exfoliate sparingly!”
 
## **7. Green Tea** 
Not only the basis of your favorite Starbucks order, Robinson says green tea (often found on ingredient labels under the name 'camellia sinensis') is rich in antioxidants that have skin-boosting benefits. Applying it topically will allow your complexion to drink up the anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) — the most important component of green tea. He recommends applying a facial moisturizer or serum (like his [BeautyStat Universal C Skin Refiner](https://beautystat.com/universal-c-skin-refiner/)) with the extract morning and night for smoothing and toning benefits.

AEDITION complexion perfection-min

Beauty Collection | The AEDITION

Beauty

From barrier-protecting emollients to dull skin-fighting exfoliants, The AEDITION asked two cosmetic chemists to share their go-to skincare ingredients for winter.

Nourishing And Hydrating Skincare Ingredients To Use For Winter 2020

7 Skincare Ingredients To Add To Your Routine This Winter

shutterstock 373039213 (1)

As a beauty editor, I’ve been writing about the latest and greatest in the skincare and aesthetics space for years. While buzzy ingredients, tricked out lotions and potions, and new-age technologies with miracle claims pop up on the regular, there are a few tried-and-true workhorses that transcend trends. [Daily sunscreen](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-you-need-to-know-about-sunscreen) and [nightly retinol usage](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare) are two such stalwarts (I’ve mastered the former but, admittedly, still haven’t found my groove with the latter), as are neurotoxin injections.

Since Allergan’s Botox® was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the temporary improvement of moderate to severe glabellar lines (i.e. the frown lines between the eyebrows) in April 2002, it has become the go-to for anyone looking to reduce the appearance  of fine lines and wrinkles caused by facial expressions (think: frowning, squinting, smiling, and the like). 

<PullQuote attributedTo={Lesley Rabach, MD}>
  “Botox reduces the muscle’s ability to contract fully, thereby reducing/removing the wrinkle.”
</PullQuote>

Competitors like Dysport®, Jeuveau®, and Xeomin® have followed suit (get up to speed on the ins and outs of neuromodulators [HERE](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin)) — employing small doses of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) to temporarily paralyze muscles for cosmetic effect. The lack of muscle contraction prevents the face from forming and/or deepening lines and wrinkles. The result? Smoother skin until it wears off.

Personally, I always felt the question wasn’t so much if I would go under the needle but rather when I would choose to do so. Even so, I hadn’t actually tried anything more invasive than a skincare routine nearing double digits in length and an occasional [facial](https://aedit.com/procedure/hydrafacial) or [light chemical peel](https://aedit.com/procedure/superficial-chemical-peels). But, as a soon-to-be 29 year old whose forehead lines were no longer disappearing like they once did, it felt like as good a time as any to give it a try. 

For my first Botox® appointment, I chose double board certified facial plastic surgeon [Lesley Rabach, MD](https://lmmedicalnyc.com/), of LM Medical in Manhattan because I appreciate her less-is-more approach (when she started our conversation with the refrain “cosmetic procedures are a luxury not a necessity,” I knew I was in good hands) and trust her thoroughness (she answered all of my questions, plus ones I hadn’t thought of with the patience of a saint). 

<PullQuote attributedTo={Meg Storm}>
  “As a soon-to-be 29 year old whose forehead lines were no longer disappearing like they once did, it felt like as good a time as any to give Botox a try.”
</PullQuote>

After a consultation, Dr. Rabach injected 20 units of Botox® into my glabellar lines, above my brow bone, and into my upper forehead line. I lost count after the one injection between my brows and two above each brow, but it was no more than 10 or 12 pricks total that, despite making my sensitive eyes water, hardly felt like anything (more on the pain, or lack thereof, below!). Five days later, my results appeared; a few days after that, I went in for my follow up appointment (typical for first timers); and six weeks later, I am happy to report that I love the way it turned out.

Throughout the pre- and post-procedure process, I was most struck by how many friends said they couldn’t wait to hear about my experience because they had thought about getting Botox® — but just didn’t know where to start or what to expect. With their curiosity in mind, I’ve compiled a list of the nine things I believe are most useful to know before going under the needle for the first time:

### **1. There Is No Right or Wrong Time to Start**
While it may seem like people are opting to get Botox® and the like at an earlier age, there is no right or wrong time to begin treatment. As Dr. Rabach told me during my first appointment, no one *needs* Botox® (or any cosmetic procedure for that matter). But, if you are interested and in a position to start early, neurotoxin injections can potentially have a preventative effect.

<PullQuote attributedTo={Lesley Rabach, MD}>
  “We are so lucky to be in a world where we can prevent many aging processes that generations before us couldn’t. Botox is a wonderful tool to use in small amounts to prevent wrinkles from ever starting.” 
</PullQuote>

Needless to say, patients in their twenties and thirties will need less product than someone in their forties or fifties, but everyone will see results. “Patients who already have lines require more units to decrease the movement and often need adjunct procedures like peels, fillers, and microneedling to remove the lines that are etched in,” Dr. Rabach says. “Someone in their twenties may use a fraction of the number of units to maintain ageless skin.” 

### **2. A First-Time Consultation Is Important**
As with any procedure, [finding a provider](https://aedit.com/aedition/finding-the-right-plastic-surgeon-dermatologist-or-cosmetic-dentist) that makes you feel comfortable and, in this case, matches your aesthetic is of the utmost importance. Booking a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist will help you get a sense of their work and bedside manner — and ensure that whatever you wish to have done is actually right for you. 

“We see new patients first for a consultation, medical history, and physical exam, followed by treatment,” Dr. Rabach explains. “Occasionally, patients want to have a consultation and wait to do the treatment on a later day, but most do both the same day.”

During my consultation, Dr. Rabach asked me where I thought I wanted Botox® as she studied my face. I explained the increasingly omnipresent nature of my forehead lines, and she proceeded to have me raise my eyebrows (my go-to facial expression), furrow my brow, and squint. Doing so allowed her to better understand my facial structure.

“I assess the function of the muscles and see how exactly the different muscle groups contract and pull the skin, so that I know where to place the Botox®,” she shares. “All of the muscles of the glabella (between the eyebrows), forehead, and around the eyes (crow’s feet) attach to the skin, which is why it causes wrinkling when they contract. Botox® reduces the muscle’s ability to contract fully, thereby reducing/removing the wrinkle.”

### **3. You Really Can Get It Done During Your Lunch Break**
Kelly, the patient coordinator at LM Medical, told me that the most common question she hears from patients other than “does it hurt?” is “can I get Botox® during my lunch break?” The short answer is: yes.

My first appointment (which included both a consultation and injections) lasted about an hour, but the majority of the time was spent filling out new-patient paperwork, having ‘before’ photos taken, and consulting with Dr. Rabach. The injections themselves took less than 10 minutes. Post-procedure, I iced my forehead for five minutes to help with any swelling or bruising and then headed back to work. Had I not told my colleagues where I was going, no one would have suspected a thing.

Prior to injecting, Dr. Rabach wiped my forehead down with an alcohol pad, which removed my makeup. She told me I could reapply beauty products (makeup and skincare) immediately, so feel free to bring along a touchup kit.

### **4. Be Mindful of Supplements and Allergies** 
Dr. Rabach says Botox® is “very well tolerated” by a large majority of the population for both cosmetic and therapeutic use, but it should be noted that diseases including Lambert-Eaton Syndrome, Myasthenia Gravis, ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease), and a few others are contraindicated. Additionally, allergies and meds should be considered. 

While your daily supplement regime won’t preclude you from getting injected, it may play a role in your recovery. “There are some supplements that potentially thin the blood, thereby making the chance of bruising — it is not very common but can occasionally occur — more likely,” she explains. “For this reason, we specifically ask about supplements. We ask about medications, of course, but have found that patients typically don’t think of supplements as medications. We like to be fully informed of our patient’s individual histories, so that we can set expectations.”

There are no medication contraindications to receiving Botox®, but aspirin and supplements like fish oil, ginseng, garlic, and ginkgo biloba (to name a few) can increase a patient’s chance of bleeding and, therefore, bruising. For the most seamless experience, lay off them before heading in for your appointment.

### **5. Workout *Before* Your Appointment** 
You may or may not be aware that Botox® arrives at your provider’s office in powder form and is mixed with saline and refrigerated prior to injecting. Because of the liquid nature of the combined formula, there is a theoretical risk that the solution could spread or move from the intended location. 

After my 2 p.m. treatment, Dr. Rabach told me not to exercise for the rest of the day and to try to stay upright (read: not lay down or bend over) for three hours — but the directive was provided out of an abundance of caution. “When Botox® is mixed to the company’s recommendations, as is done in my practice, [movement] is a very rare occurrence. However, we are seeing more and more facilities that dilute the Botox® too much,” she says. “This can make it more risky for the patient to lay down or workout. At LM Medical, we recommend not to lay down or workout because we are extra careful, but it really stays where we want it.”

### **6. A Vibrator Might Be Involved**
Yes, *that* kind of vibrator. During my appointment, Dr. Rabach hilariously told me that one of her early mentors gave her the tip to buy them in bulk from Amazon for the best deal... and results. Obviously, *Cosmo* [has thoroughly covered the practice](https://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/a26324168/vibrators-pain-management-botox/), but, in all seriousness, the vibrator serves a very useful purpose.

“We have a lattice of very superficial sensory nerves and anything that touches the skin, they feel,” Dr. Rabach explains. “Using vibration during injection tricks the sensory nerves in the surrounding area to not ‘know’ exactly where the needle is coming and, therefore, makes the discomfort significantly less. Sometimes you can’t feel it at all!”

Dr. Rabach held the vibrator on the side of my forehead, asked me to make facial expressions, and injected into the lines that formed. I didn’t feel a thing, which may be a result of the vibrator or may have something to do with the fact that they quite literally use the tiniest needles on the market for the procedure. While I’ve been told I have a high pain tolerance, I don’t think anyone would tell you the injections feel like anything more than a pinprick.

Because my eyes are naturally watery, they teared up slightly, and there was a bit of blood left over that she quickly wiped away. Immediately following the treatment, there were small, bug bite-like bumps at each injection site. She handed me an ice pack to put on my forehead for five minutes and said the swelling would be gone entirely in 15 to 20 minutes. As promised, by the time I got back to my desk, there was no evidence I had anything done.

For the rest of the day, I felt like I had a very dull headache. My forehead felt a little tender to the touch (similar to how your arm feels after a vaccination) for the first 48 hours or so, but I really only noticed it when I washed my face and rubbed the area. 

### **7. Don’t Expect Results Right Away**
Given our culture is one of instant gratification, it’s important to understand that Botox® results aren’t immediate. In fact, you’ll spend the first three or four days wondering if your doctor even did anything. But, come day five, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t try this sooner. Two weeks post-treatment, you’ll be enjoying the full effect of your injections.

<PullQuote attributedTo={Meg Storm}>
  “Basically, I feel frozen but don’t look it. My makeup wears better without any forehead creasing, and I generally find that I look more refreshed —whether I get enough sleep or not.”
</PullQuote>

I happened to be home with my family for Thanksgiving on day five, and the fact that I got Botox® had all but slipped my mind until my mom asked me if I noticed a change yet. To my delight, I looked in the mirror and saw that the small lines that had started to etch themselves above my brows were softened — almost to the point of invisibility. And, when I raised my eyebrows (yes, they still moved!), my forehead could no longer contract the way it once did. Additionally, I found it difficult to furrow my brow (though, as I mentioned, I am more of a brow raiser than a furrower), which means a temporary farewell to my eleven lines. Basically, I feel frozen but don’t look it. My makeup wears better without any forehead creasing, and I generally find that I look more refreshed (whether I get enough sleep or not!).

### **8. You’ll Need a Follow-Up Appointment** 
As Dr. Rabach explained to me during my initial appointment, not all muscles are created equal. As a result, one side of your face may be stronger than the other, which means that one side may require a bit more treatment than the other — though it will be hard for your provider to know that during your first meeting. 

To ensure your injections are right for your facial structure, he or she will likely have you come about a week later (once the results have started to reveal themselves) to see if a touchup is necessary. I didn’t end up needing another needle, but the quick appointment was a good opportunity to have my ‘after’ photos taken and ask Dr. Rabach additional questions — chiefly, when I should come back for more because, in case you haven’t heard, Botox® isn’t permanent...

### **9. Results Are Temporary**
No matter which neurotoxin you try, the results aren’t immediate and they don’t last forever. Depending on the amount injected and the way your body processes it, most patients will find that injections last three to four months, at which point it would be time for another treatment.

“Botox® degrades over time and needs to be repeated,” Dr. Rabach says. “Individual results vary depending on each person, their metabolism, how many units the person received, as well as other factors. I occasionally hear of it lasting longer than four months, but the industry standard is three to four months for the majority of people. There isn’t much we can do to make it last longer.”

## **The Takeaway**
As you can probably tell, I am very happy with my Botox® results and can see myself getting treatments two or three times a year in the future. With that said, I went into my appointment with a few hesitations and plenty of questions, all of which my doctor was able to talk me through. If you take but one thing from this article, let it be this: finding the right provider is key.

“It is entirely normal to feel nervous about doing something new, especially on your face,” Dr. Rabach says. “You almost definitely will love the results because you will look exactly like yourself, only refreshed! It is important to always go to an experienced, board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who has intimate knowledge of the facial muscles, so that you get a phenomenal treatment.” 

After years covering the beauty and aesthetics industries, one editor decided it was time to say ‘so long’ to her forehead lines.

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