What is Botulinum Toxin ('Botox')?
​Anti-Wrinkle injections, commonly referred to as Botox®, consist of a Botulinum toxin. Botulinum toxin is a purified protein and works by temporarily weakening and relaxing the muscles that cause frown lines and wrinkles, resulting in a younger looking appearance.
How does it work?
​Botulinum toxin blocks the nerve impulses to the facial muscles that have been injected. This reduces the activity of the muscles and therefore softens the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
When do I notice the effects?
​The time taken to notice effects varies from person to person. It can be from as early as 2-3 days with full effects taking up to 2-3 weeks following treatment. We can review the results at this point to ensure you are happy.
How long do the results last?
Full effects last for around 3-4 months after which they slowly fade. The results have known to last much longer with regular treatments and when used over a period of time it can prevent the occurrence of new lines. If you decide to stop treatment, any lines and wrinkles will gradually reappear.
Is it safe?
Millions of people worldwide have these injections and the safety of the product and its administration is well established. Botulinum toxin has safely been used since as early as 1980 including for many medical conditions, such as Cerebral Palsy and Focal spasticity associated with stroke. For further reassurance, being treated by a well-trained and knowledgable injector is key to patient safety. At The Beauty Alchemist, not only are we pharmacist led, our training to masterclass level has been achieved with the world renowned Derma Medical training facility in London.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects from these procedures are extremely rare and uncommon and very few experience anything significant, however everyone is an individual. You may experience some mild bruising, numbness, tenderness at the injection site or a mild headache. There is a very small risk (less than 1%) of developing a temporary drooping eyelid when injecting close to the eye. Being pharmacist led, if this occurs we can treat to lessen the effect until it wears off naturally.
Who cannot have treatment?
All patients will be assessed through the pre-assessment & consultation session, however some known conditions include:
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​Pregnant or breastfeeding women
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Anyone with an infection at the injection site
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Anyone on certain medications/antibiotics - please ask when enquiring
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Allergies to human albumin or associated ingredients - if unsure, please ask when enquiring
FAQ's About Toxins
FAQ's About Dermal Fillers
What are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal Fillers are water-based products that provide instant volume to the skins appearance. The products used are based on hyaluronic acid, which is a natural component of the skin. As we age, our skin loses its natural elasticity and volume leading to a ‘sagging’ appearance. Injecting tiny amounts of filler under the skin/lips reverses the ageing process by restoring this lost volume where it is needed and rehydrating the skin.
What does the treatment involve?
The most popular fillers we use are from the Juvéderm VYCROSS® range by Allergan. These fillers contain an anaesthetic to improve the comfort of the treatment. The treatment area can also be anaesthetised with cream or tiny injections prior to the treatment so your experience is as pain-free and comfortable as possible. A tiny amount of the Dermal Filler gel is then injected under the skin or lips with a very fine needle or a cannula to provide instant volume and smoothness. Treatment typically takes between 10-30 minutes.
How long to see the results?
Dermal fillers provide almost instant results. After your first treatment, your skin will appear smoother and more even toned and the appearance of lines and wrinkles will have reduced. You will notice that your skin feels and looks firmer, appears healthier and has a more vital and youthful glow.
How long do the results last?
How long the filler will last is very individual. This depends on many factors, such as your age, skin type, lifestyle, and muscle activity, as well as on product injected. The effects typically last between 6 - 24 months depending on the type of filler used.
Are Dermal Fillers safe?
Yes, when administered by a medical professional. The hyaluronic gel is completely natural, and over time, the filler will slowly dissolve, causing you no harm.
Are there any side effects?
Most side effects are mild and temporary: redness, pain, swelling, bruising. Allergic reactions are rare.
Prior to any treatment, a full list of side effects, cautions and contraindications will be discussed during the full assessment.
Who cannot have treatment?
All patients will be assessed through the pre-assessment & consultation session, however some known conditions include:
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​Pregnant or breastfeeding women
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Anyone with an infection at the injection site
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Anyone with an impaired immune system or anyone undergoing chemotherapy
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Anyone with an allergy to the product
AESTHETICS CLINIC