Today I’m sharing a hot topic, that seems to be kept under wraps often….BOTOX! Its funny how many of my friends get it done, but no one talks about it. It’s very much kept a secret among my generation. Well Im spilling the beans today and sharing all about my experience.
I’ve been getting my botox done at Epi Center Med Spa in San Francisco and absolutely love my experience there. I shared my experience on stories with you all (saved under my SKINCARE highlights if you want to watch) and I asked you what questions you would like us to answer about the procedure. Today Im answering all of your questions that you submitted and more!
Q: At what age did you start?
A: I started when I was 27 and at that age I needed it. I was out in the sun a lot as a kid and young adult and had major forehead lines which really bothered me. Most 27 year olds can get preventative botox, but I actually needed it treated. Im now 32 and have stuck to botox in my forehead only and may need to start doing some closer to my eyes/crows feet in the future. I LOVE the way it looks. It smooths out my skin and makes a huge difference to my appearance. My makeup applies much smoother and I feel much more confident.
Q: How many units did she use on your forehead?
A: We did 12 units to my forehead and 20 units to the glabella (the skin between the eyebrows and above the nose). I like to do more than average so it lasts a bit longer and so I don’t have much movement. That is just my preference.
Q: Much much does it cost?
A: Cost will vary depending on location but at Epi Center Med Spa botox costs $16 per unit. They often have specials though, so be sure to investigate that as well!
Q: How did you pick your injector?
A: I started working with Minela about a year ago. We met at an event at the spa and I have seen her ever since! We kind of hit it off and have become friends. She is INCREDIBLE at her art and practices almost every treatment that you can get at the spa. I always look forward to seeing her, she is so sweet and very experienced. I would definitely do you research and ask a lot of questions and tell your nurse exactly what you are looking for before starting. Communication is key. We have taken before and after pictures and talk about exactly what I want to look like. Minela gets me. 🙂
Q: Ive never done it, how often for you need to get it before it wears off?
A: On average it should last 3 months. Ive learned that the faster your metabolism the faster it wears off. Like mine wears off incredibly fast, maybe about 2 months which is not normal. I just have a super fast metabolism that eats away the botox and fillers quicker than most. I like to stick to a schedule though and get it done 4x/year.
Q: Are you sure it’s not painful? Im so afraid of needles.
A: It’s really not. You do feel a prick but its so fast that I barely even notice it. I don’t look at the needle at all and I make sure we are talking or my mind is occupied on something else. The whole forehead takes us maybe 5-10 minutes. I am usually a little red after for about 15 mins then ready to go out and about!
Q: Where should I go for lips? Im considering.
A: Epi Center of course! That is if you are in the Bay Area and Im pretty sure who asked this is nearby. I love Minela, she is such a gem and incredible at her art. Make sure to numb! Lips are a bit more painful than botox but also worth the pain in my opinion.
Q: I have insane under eye circles, what would the best way to treat them?
A: Filler! I haven’t done it but I’ve heard and seen a lot of friends do it and have incredible results.
We are sharing the video of the procedure from start to finish on Instagram is you want to take a peak! Please let me know if you have any more questions in the comments! Hope this post has been helpful to you.
xx Jenna
Awesome post! Keep up the great work! 🙂