Since hitting the scene in 2000, Botox has become one of the most popular injectable treatments. I like many have been sceptical, but now that it has been out for over 15 years I thought it was about time I got on board. I know it is a taboo subject but like many parts of my life I wanted to have some transparency on the subject. I had my first treatment in Edmonton at the Hemingway Medical spa this last month. When I shared on my IG stories about my experience I was floated with questions and medi spa confessions, so I thought I would try to answer some of the reoccurring questions.

What is it? Simply put, Botulinum toxin in this scenario is used as a muscle relaxer. Smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles between the eyebrows, forehead or eye area. It can even be used to treat excessive sweating under the arms or to treat severe reoccurring migraines. Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin produced in nature by a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. It works on the nerves in the body to inhibit the release of a neurotransmitter (brain chemical) called Acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is responsible for muscle contraction; therefore, if it is blocked, there can be no muscle contraction. Since repeated muscle contraction is what leads to the formation of wrinkles, no more contraction means no more wrinkles.

Why Botox now? In all honesty, I wanted to get on the botox train earlier. So I could be more preventive to counteract deep set wrinkles between my eyebrows. But I could not get the injectable treatment until now because for the last 5 years I’ve been either breastfeeding or pregnant. And yes, you cannot get botox if you are either of those things. I think many people believe Botox is for “older” people but in reality younger people are getting it for preventive measures.

Why Hemingway Medical spa? I struggled to find a place that had hands on doctors and nurses. They do a through consult, never push anything that you don’t need. Some of my friends have gone to this media spa and have been advised they don’t need botox. They are not there to just inject and take your money. They will let you know what treatments may be a good fit for your skin and your skin’s needs. They are market priced per unit and you see the actually medical units used. Not local? Do your research and find a trusted physician!

Did it hurt? And Did I like the results? I barely felt a thing, the needles they use are tiny. I experienced zero bruising. And my forehead was only sore for half a day. It takes a few days to start working but I was so pleased by the results. Between my eye brows was a very defined line but it is gone. I went to my follow up appointment and didn’t need any touch up work. They achieved the correct dose in my initial appointment. Continue reading →