My First Experience of Anti-Wrinkle Treatment, Botox

In October, before my birthday month of November and turning 43, I decided it was time for a little tweakment with a spot of Botox!

It was actually a close up photo my husband Peter took of me whilst we were on holiday in Cyprus in the summer which was the catalyst to me finally booking the appointment. For the first time in my life I could see forehead lines which I’m blaming on the stress of having my third child at 40! Ha!

I was naturally nervous about Botox initially, especially as it was the first time I’d opted for any kind of skin rejuvenation procedure so was unclear on what to expect. My health anxiety kicked in beforehand as it always does with anything medical related which increased my anxiety (I am seeing a therapist for this as it ramped up after my thyroid operation in 2018).

My forehead lines were not hugely noticeable to be honest unless I scrunched my forehead (you couldn’t see them when I wore foundation for example) but my confidence had dipped postnatally (my daughter was almost 2 at the time) and after hearing positive stories from friends and family who’d experienced quick and long-lasting results with Botox, I replied to an earlier email from Dr Claire Seddon of Dr Claire Aesthetics asking if I’d like to collaborate and agreed!

And I’m glad I did!

But first, what exactly is Botox and why did I want it?

The NHS describes Botox as, ‘Botulinum toxin injections, such as Botox, relax the muscles in your face to smooth out lines and wrinkles, such as crow’s feet and frown lines. It’s not permanent – it usually lasts for around 3 or 4 months’.

In the right cases and in the hands of someone experienced like Dr Claire Seddon, just one treatment can significantly reduce the appearance of forehead wrinkles, frown lines and crow’s feet resulting in a more refreshed and youthful look. Claire uses brand Azzalure.

With most, it can take a few days or even a week to see a difference but I was lucky that I could see a visible difference the following day. Four months on, I still don’t have any visible lines!

Dr Claire is a fully qualified GP and a former trainer at SkinViva – one of the largest aesthetics training academies in the UK and I felt completely at ease in her (literally) capable hands.

After a detailed appointment prior to having the procedure where I shared my medical history and health anxiety, Claire explained the procedure and likely results, reassuring me and putting me at ease. Claire also explained that the Botox is injected into the muscle not the bloodstream so allergic reactions are incredibly rare.

The first time she administers Botox with a new client, Claire only applies a small amount (half of the average dose) which was smart in my case, as I didn’t require any more despite a second appointment two weeks later, where she checked the results.

I didn’t feel any pain during the procedure nor did I experience any redness either. I merely suffered with a 30 minute headache the following day. A mininal side effect with maximum results!

I’m definitely a Botox convert now thanks to Dr Claire! I just wish I’d started earlier to help with wrinkle prevention.

Have you had Botox?

This was a complimentary treatment but as always my words are honest.