Botox Basics: What to Expect Before, During, and After Your First Treatment

Thinking about getting Botox for the first time? You’re not alone. Botox is one of the most popular non-surgical aesthetic treatments worldwide — and for good reason. It’s quick, effective, and requires little to no downtime. But like any treatment, it’s normal to have questions before diving in.

At Pacific Glow MD, we believe informed clients are confident clients. Here’s a clear breakdown of what to expect before, during, and after your Botox appointment.

Before Your Appointment: Know What You’re Getting Into

First things first: Botox is a purified form of botulinum toxin that temporarily relaxes muscles. It’s most commonly used to soften dynamic wrinkles — the ones caused by repeated facial movements, like frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead creases.

Before your appointment, here’s what we recommend:

• Do your homework: Not all Botox providers are equal. Choose a licensed, experienced injector who understands facial anatomy and listens to your goals. (Spoiler: that’s us.)
• Avoid blood thinners: If possible, stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil supplements about 3–5 days prior to your appointment. These can increase your risk of bruising.
• Come with a clean face: Skip makeup, skincare, and SPF on treatment areas. We’ll clean your skin before injection, but starting fresh helps.
• Be ready to discuss your goals: Do you want a subtle refresh or a more noticeable smoothing? A good injector will tailor treatment to your preferences and facial structure.

During the Treatment: Quick, Easy, and Mostly Painless

Botox injections are often referred to as a “lunchtime procedure” — and it’s true. The actual process takes around 10–15 minutes, and discomfort is minimal.

Here’s how it typically goes:

1. Consultation: We start with a quick but thorough conversation about your goals, medical history, and any concerns you have.
2. Prep: We’ll clean the injection sites and may apply a numbing cream or ice to minimize any discomfort.
3. Injection: Using a tiny needle, we’ll inject Botox into specific muscles. Most people describe it as a quick pinch or sting.
4. Aftercare instructions: We’ll walk you through what to do (and not do) over the next 24 hours to get the best results.

Most clients are surprised by how fast and easy it is. You’ll be out the door in under 30 minutes, looking exactly the same — for now.

After the Appointment: What Happens Next?

Botox doesn’t work instantly. You’ll start to see results in about 3–5 days, with full effects kicking in around 10–14 days after treatment.

Here’s what to keep in mind post-appointment:

• No touching or massaging the area: For at least 4 hours, avoid rubbing your face, lying down flat, or doing anything that might shift the product.
• Skip the workout: Give your face a break — and avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day.
• Mild side effects are normal: Some redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site is common and usually fades quickly.
• Enjoy your results: Once it settles, Botox smooths out wrinkles without freezing your expressions. The key is natural-looking results — refreshed, not “frozen.”

Botox typically lasts 3 to 4 months, depending on how your body metabolizes it. With regular maintenance, many clients find they need fewer units over time.

Final Thoughts: Is Botox Right for You?

If you’re noticing fine lines or feel like your reflection looks more tired than you feel, Botox might be a great option. It’s safe, subtle, and can make a real difference in how you look and feel.

At Pacific Glow MD, we specialize in natural results — enhancing your features without overdoing it. Our approach is all about precision, balance, and helping you look like the best version of yourself.

Curious about whether Botox is right for you? Book a consultation today. We’ll walk you through it, answer every question, and make sure you feel 100% confident before getting started.