I’ve been getting Botox since I was 27 years old … which means I’ve officially been getting it for over half-a-decade. While some people get Botox in their 20s for medical reasons (it can be helpful for migraines) my decision came down to good old-fashioned wrinkle prevention. The current theory is that if you stop parts of your face from making certain repetitive, wrinkle-causing motions, you won’t form wrinkles in those areas in the first place.

People ALWAYS Have Questions About My Botox

I’ve been extremely satisfied with my Botox experience, but am admittedly often met with questions from curious friends and family. Many of them have considered it for themselves, but are way too nervous to “take the leap.” Because of this, I’ve tried to answer all of the most common Botox-related questions I get on a regular basis. Hopefully this will help you get a better sense of whether or not Botox is right for you.

Does it hurt?

My honest answer is that the experience varies from “absolutely no big deal” to “a little uncomfortable.” It often depends on the day. The needle used is extremely thin, so it mostly just feels like little pin pricks. It’s also over in less than five minutes, so if fear of pain is the biggest thing standing between you and Botox, I’d go for it.

Just be warned — you’ll likely have red bumps at the injection site for a few hours. However, they calm down by the end of the day and are completely gone by the following.

Does it make your face look frozen?

This is by far the biggest misconception I hear about Botox. A lot of people associate it with a super frozen or unnatural aesthetic. However, this has absolutely not been my experience! If you go to a reputable doctor they will be able to work with you and your specific goals. Some people love the “frozen forehead” look, whereas others like a more natural one. Once my Botox sets in, I can raise my eyebrows and make a “surprised” face. My muscles just don’t move so much that I form deep creases across my forehead when I do so.

People are usually shocked when I tell them I get Botox because it’s just not obvious (which is how I personally prefer it).

Does it make your face feel weird?

The first time I got Botox I was extremely aware of how my forehead felt as the treatment set in. I definitely noticed that it didn’t feel like it “normally” did (it kind of felt “heavy,” for lack of a better word). However, I got used to it within about two weeks. Now, I truly don’t notice it at all (if anything, I’ve grown to like the sensation. I have less tension in my forehead and temples at the end of a long day since I move the upper part of my face less).

Does it truly prevent wrinkles?

I can only speak from my experience, but I have found that the creases on my forehead aren’t nearly as deep as they used to be. I genuinely do think that preventing my face from repetitive over-expressing has worked as a preventative measure.

Is it worth the cost?

Botox costs me about $500 per session, with about three sessions a year (so $1,500 annually – or about $125/month). I consider it well worth it! My skin is important to me, and I do a lot to prevent unnecessary signs of aging (i.e., high quality sunscreens, serums, and retinol products). I view Botox as part of my anti-aging arsenal.

However, at the end of the day, it’s a personal decision and only you can decide if it’s right for you. (And of course, costs can vary based on the amount you receive and how often you get it.)

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Authored by: Toria Sheffield