Thinking about Botox® for the first time? You’re not alone. Botox is one of the most popular non-surgical aesthetic treatments worldwide, helping millions of people reduce lines and wrinkles while maintaining a natural look. At Skinhorizon Clinic, we understand that your first appointment can feel daunting — so here’s a complete guide to what you can expect.

What is Botox and How Does it Work?

Botox is a purified protein derived from botulinum toxin. When injected in very small amounts by a medical professional, it temporarily relaxes specific facial muscles. This softens dynamic wrinkles — lines caused by repeated expressions such as frowning, squinting, or smiling. Popular treatment areas include:

• Forehead lines
• Frown lines (between the eyebrows)
• Crow’s feet (around the eyes)
• Bunny lines (across the nose)
• Chin dimpling

What to Expect at Your First Botox Appointment

At Skinhorizon, every Botox treatment begins with a detailed consultation. During this session, your doctor will:

• Discuss your goals and expectations.
• Assess your facial anatomy and expressions.
• Explain the benefits, limitations, and risks of Botox.
• Create a personalised treatment plan tailored to you.

The actual injections take just 10–20 minutes, with minimal discomfort thanks to ultra-fine needles.

Does Botox Hurt?

Most patients describe Botox injections as a series of tiny pinches. Discomfort is minimal and short-lived. If you are particularly sensitive, a topical numbing cream or ice may be applied before treatment.

How Soon Will You See Results?

Botox does not work instantly. You’ll typically start noticing changes after 3–5 days, with full results visible in 10–14 days. Results last around 3–4 months, after which top-up treatments are recommended to maintain smoothness.

First-Time Botox Safety Tips

As with any medical treatment, safety comes first. At Skinhorizon, we follow strict clinic safety tips to ensure natural results and minimal side effects:

• Botox should only be administered by qualified medical professionals.
• Always attend a consultation before treatment.
• Ensure you are not pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from certain neurological conditions before having Botox.
• Follow all aftercare instructions carefully to avoid complications.

Aftercare: What to Do After Your First Botox Treatment

Proper aftercare ensures the best outcome and reduces risks. After Botox, you should:

• Avoid touching, rubbing, or massaging treated areas for 24 hours.
• Stay upright for 4 hours after injections.
• Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, or steam rooms for 24–48 hours.
• Skip alcohol on the same day to reduce bruising.
• Gently move treated muscles by smiling or frowning to help Botox settle.

Common Side Effects

Side effects are usually mild and temporary. They may include:

• Redness or swelling at the injection site
• Mild bruising
• Headache
• Temporary unevenness if Botox has not yet fully settled

Serious side effects are extremely rare when Botox is performed by an experienced clinician.

Natural Results: Avoiding the “Frozen Look”

A common concern for first-time patients is looking unnatural. At Skinhorizon Clinic, our goal is subtle enhancement. We use conservative dosing and advanced techniques to relax wrinkles without restricting natural expression. You’ll still look like yourself — just fresher and more rested.

Before & After: First-Time Botox Results