I’m a Tox-aholic

Hello! My name is Jackie, and I am a Tox-aholic! Botox — also known as toxin — has been said to turn back the hands of time. After seeing celebrities, influencers and even the neighbor down the street somehow defy the signs of aging, I wondered: how are they doing that, and what is Botox? I had my first Botox experience in my early 40s, and I couldn’t believe the miracle that had just happened to my face. I’m now 55, and I still love the anti-aging effects Botox has on my face!

Don’t just take my word for it: ask any nurse injector or aesthetic plastic surgeon what the most popular treatment on their menu is, and they’ll almost unanimously say toxin injections. It’s no surprise that in the first American Society of Plastic Surgeons Insights and Trends Report, Botox topped the list of minimally invasive procedures patients sought out in 2021 and 2022.

But no matter how many TV personalities mention it, there are still questions about Botox. So if you’re thinking about it, follow along as I turn to my nurse injector at LEMON + LEIGH in Boyd, Texas to answer the questions people ask most.

What is Botox?

“Botulinum toxin, or Botox, is a purified substance that’s derived from bacteria,” said Courtney, owner and nurse injector at LEMON + LEIGH. “In other words, it’s basically a very diluted concentration of a neurotoxin.”

Injected in tiny amounts, it relaxes the specific muscles that crease your skin when you make expressions. When those muscles can’t contract as strongly, the lines they cause soften and smooth out.

What is Botox used for?

Most often, softening the signs of aging. Years of smiling, frowning and laughing create creases, so if you’re in your 20s, 30s or beyond and don’t love what you see, Botox might be a good option.

“It’s kind of a magic eraser when it comes to lines that involve the motion of the face,” said Courtney. “These lines in your forehead, crow’s feet around your eyes, bunny lines — they all stop actually happening. It basically turns back the clock.”

Popular areas include forehead lines, the “11s” between your brows, crow’s feet, a lip flip, a brow lift, and jaw slimming for clenching (masseter).

Who is a good candidate for Botox?

According to Courtney, just about anyone with lines, wrinkles, a gummy smile or dimpling of the skin they want to soften. Botox isn’t recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for people with certain neuromuscular conditions, so share your full health history at your consultation.

When should I start Botox?

“There are a lot of people who start using Botox in their 20s, and honestly, what’s amazing about it is that it’s preventative,” said Courtney. “Once we start to age and deep lines develop, they’re kind of permanent creases in the skin, and that’s when you have to start using filler, because even when you relax the muscles, those lines are still there at rest.”

Many clients start in their mid-20s to early 30s — but it’s never too late to start.

Does Botox hurt?

Most people describe it as a quick pinch. The needles are very fine and the injections take just a few minutes. Numbing is available if you’d like it.

When will I see results?

Softening usually starts around day 3 to 5, with full results by day 14. That’s why we schedule a follow-up at two weeks — to make sure you love your results.

How long does Botox last?

Most clients see results for about three to four months, though it varies from person to person. With consistent treatments, many find their results last a little longer over time.

It’s important to remember that Botox isn’t an alternative to a facelift. It’s a great place to start for unwanted wrinkles, but it won’t lift sagging skin, and it isn’t permanent.

Is there any downtime after Botox?

Virtually none — one of the top reasons people love it. Small bumps at the injection sites fade within 20 to 30 minutes, and you can go right back to your day. Whether you have a demanding career, are a parent or both, Botox fits into a lunch break.

For the best results, avoid lying flat or rubbing the area for 4 hours afterward, and skip strenuous exercise for 24 hours.

How much does Botox cost?

Botox is priced by the unit, so your cost depends on the areas you treat and how many units you need. Common ranges are 8–15 units for the forehead, 15–25 for the 11s and 10–20 for crow’s feet. You’ll get a personalized quote at your free consultation — and members get special pricing.

What’s the difference between Botox, Xeomin and Jeuveau?

All three are FDA-approved neuromodulators that work the same way. Botox is the original with the most research, Xeomin is a purified form, and Jeuveau is a newer option. We offer all three and will help you choose.

Will I still look like myself?

Yes. You choose how much movement you keep — from a soft, natural look to a smoother, more polished finish. We always start conservatively, and you can fine-tune at your two-week follow-up. As always, if you’re considering any cosmetic treatment, make sure you’re doing it for you.