Considering Botox? Read This Before You Do!

There’s nothing wrong with getting Botox done. No one likes wrinkles, dark spots and saggy skin.
And let’s face it, with so much environmental stress and other factors, our skin really needs some help every now and then.
Wrinkles on the forehead, crow’s feet around the eyes and loose skin around the neck and chin can be really off-putting. In fact, some individuals feel quite conscious of these signs of ageing, although there’s nothing to be ashamed about.
But before you go and spend over $200 on Botox treatments, you may want to read up on this miracle retinol moisturizer.

What is Botox?

Made from Botulinum, a toxin that’s also found in our stomachs during food poisoning (yikes!), the chemical is injected into the skin to stop the nerve and muscle from communicating. This leaves you with smoother lines and taut skin.
Sure, it sounds appealing – but wouldn’t you prefer a safer alternative to reduce signs of ageing?

Enter Retinol!

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that is used topically to regenerate skin. It helps to boost the skin’s natural exfoliating and renewal process, diminishing fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots and gradually tightening your skin and making it look youthful.
The best way to reap retinol benefits is by investing in a great retinol product, like night creams or serums.

Let’s Start Comparing!

Before you confirm your Botox appointment, here are some facts you may want to consider.

Longevity

Botox: Turns out, one treatment of Botox is supposed to keep your skin taut for about an average of 3.5 weeks. Meaning your skin will begin to loosen and wrinkle again in less than a month.
Retinol: Retinol takes around 6 – 12 weeks to show its effects. Although slow, it doesn’t work in reverse – your fine lines and dark spots will continue to diminish.

The Side Effects

Botox: Research done on Botox recipients revealed that inflammation, numbness, bruising and red welts are very common side effects of the treatment. Patients who have asthma or are prone to allergies may suffer from reactions, wheezing, dizziness and severe itching. Long term effects of Botox can cause loss of sensation in the areas, muscle weakness and spasms due to the toxins being constantly administered.
Retinol: Overusing Retinol can cause an allergic reaction, but that’s the extent of it. Doctors recommend using retinol products only twice a week for the first two months for prolonged benefits. For sensitive skins, retinol creams should be used once a week and paired with an emollient.

The Price

Botox: One shot of Botox can cost around $10 - $12, but to really see effects, doctors may recommend a treatment that may cost up to $200 - $600 and will have to be redone after a while. So it’s quite pricey.
Retinol: Luckily, Retinol products can cost around $10 or even $180, depending on how much you’re willing to splurge.

Summary: This article discusses what Botox treatments and Retinol products are, and which one provides long term and safer solutions to skin concerns like ageing, pigmentation, darkened areas and sagging skin.