Not Sure When To Get Botox? We Tried Baby Botox For The First Time

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Let me introduce myself real quick… Hi, I’m Eleanor, and I’m a Beauty Editor here at Huda Beauty. I’m currently teetering on the edge of 27 years young. I’m an Aries, so my birthday is right around the corner (party plannin’ pending).

I recently started noticing a line on my forehead that was becoming more and more prominent. While I totally appreciate wrinkles and lines are normal and just a sign of life, it was kinda playing on my mind. My immediate reaction was to get more serious with my skincare regimen and ensure my daily routine included skin-smoothing active ingredients. But then I began toying with the idea of Botox. I’ve never had any form of cosmetic procedure, so needless to say, I was a little apprehensive, but I decided to have a consultation to determine my options and get a professional opinion.

So, I did my research and asked around for a top-tier aesthetician that listens to your needs and delivers exactly what you ask for. I found Dr. Dany Kayle, Founder of the award-winning Dr. Kayle Aesthetic Clinic Dubai. I got in touch and had the opportunity to sit down with him, ask him all my questions, and (spoiler) decide on a lil’ cosmetic treatment. Obviously, I wanted to share the experience with you, so here’s how our conversation went…

As someone in their late 20s, I’ve started noticing some fine lines settling in and wanted to explore a rejuvenating skincare treatment. At what age would you recommend getting a little more serious about anti-aging treatments and skincare?

Dr. Kayle begins, “The earlier you seek professional advice, the better. It’s always better to treat the problem when it is small. A line or fine wrinkle is easier to efface than a deep one that has been there for years, so I always recommend booking a consultation with a cosmetic doctor or skincare specialist so they can prescribe a bespoke skincare program comprising products and treatments to have.”

Is there such a thing as being “too young” when it comes to rejuvenating treatments?

“Not at all, because we treat a problem, not the age. When there is a problem annoying the patient, the age is irrelevant. Aging has a genetic element, so in some people, the signs of aging can appear at a younger age when compared to other individuals. Consequently, for these people, they would start anti-aging treatments at an earlier age,” says Dr. Kayle.

So, what are the best treatments for skin tightening, fine lines, and wrinkles?

Dr. Kayle confirms, “Anti-aging is a combination of prevention and protection, followed by treatment. Getting enough sleep, applying sunscreen, staying well hydrated, in addition to having a skincare routine that’s rich in antioxidants and retinoids are the basics of prevention and protection. Then, radiofrequency, peels (chemical or laser), Botox, and fillers can be considered as the options for treatment.”

As someone who is new to Botox/baby Botox, what three things should I consider or know before the treatment?

Dr. Kayle explains, “First of all, you should find a well-experienced licensed plastic surgeon or dermatologist. Second, have a prolonged thorough consultation with your doctor where all your concerns and goals are discussed. Third, understand the potential side effects such as bruising and headaches.”

My Experience with Baby Botox

Eyebrows fully raised before and after baby botox.

The consultation: After chatting a little longer, Dr. Kayle suggested baby Botox, also known as micro-Botox. It’s similar to Botox (a brand name for the botulinum toxin, which affects nerves and causes muscle weakening) in that it uses a toxin to freeze the muscles and prevent fine lines from deepening. The only difference is that Botox microdosing involves significantly fewer units of toxin being injected. Baby Botox is sometimes as low as 20 or 30 units compared to 80 or 90 units. He informed me that I was a prime candidate, as the lines were relatively new and had not deepened. He confirmed that the ideal time to get baby Botox is in your late 20s or early 30s.

Dr. Kayle’s recommendation: Dr. Kayle confirmed that baby Botox would smooth the line in question but still look really natural. I also brought up a frown line in between my brows that I’d like to soften. He said he’d only use 20 units and inject my forehead in five different areas – in between my brows, at my hairline just above the tail of each brow, and on either side of my forehead.

The procedure: I followed his lead, as I really felt he understood my main objectives a) to soften my fine lines and b) to still have movement and look natural, and I’m so glad I did! The procedure took less than five minutes and didn’t even hurt… that much. It felt like a little pinch, and afterward, I did have a slight headache for an hour. Anyone who has had a nose piercing, I’d actually say it’s less painful! Dr. Kayle then offered to inject more Botox above my brow bone to lift my brows, but I declined. Afterward, I also had a hydrafacial, so I left the appointment looking glowy AF. #HighlyRecommend!

Post-treatment care: Post-Botox, you should aim to keep your head straight (no lying down for a few hours) and avoid sun exposure and exercise for 24 to 48 hours as it could displace the toxin. You can expect to see the full results roughly five days post-Botox.

Eyebrows fully raised before and after baby Botox.

The results: I was soooo impressed. My forehead looked so smooth, and while I had some movement with my brows, my fine lines softened. I still feel it looks natural, but also I can definitely notice an improvement. The results will last somewhere between two to four months, depending on how much Botox is injected, how much your face naturally moves, and how your body metabolizes the toxin.

Bottom line: I have to admit, I was a bit nervous, primarily due to the stigma of cosmetic surgery – I was worried I would look frozen or unnatural – and because this was my “first time,” after all! But I’m so in love with the results and will definitely continue getting top-ups! The most important thing is to find a professional you trust that understands what you want and doesn’t go beyond that, and Dr. Kayle was definitely that for me. I just feel like it’s made me look more refreshed, and I love that.

Dr. Kayle’s Skincare Tips for Smooth, Supple Skin

If you’re still unsure about Botox, don’t worry, as there are plenty of other things you can do to promote firm, supple skin. We asked Dr. Kayle for his top tips:

Use sun protection daily: “Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen of at least SPF 30 on a daily basis,” says Dr. Kayle. Check out our fave sunscreens here.

Stay hydrated: “This can improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, aim to drink 1 to 1.5 liters of water daily,” advises Dr. Kayle. Check out our fave fruit-infused water recipes to spice up your water intake!

Include actives that promote firm skin in your daily routine: Dr. Kayle notes that it’s important to include active ingredients that promote smooth, firm, supple skin. Here are his top five and how they help your skin…

1. Hyaluronic acid: Due to its ability to hold water, it keeps the skin plump and smooth by retaining moisture in the skin.
2. Vitamin C: As an antioxidant, it helps protect the skin against free radical damage caused by pollution and UV radiation. It can stimulate collagen production for firmer, more youthful skin.
3. Vitamin B3: Vitamin B3 improves skin texture and tone and reduces the appearance of fine lines.
4. Retinoids: Retinoids help to increase collagen production and improve skin texture.
5. Ceramides: Ceramides help to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

Consult the experts: Finally, Dr. Kayle reminds us to “Always consult your skin care professional, who can advise you on the regimen that best suits your skin type and will generate optimum results.”

For treatment options, check out these in-office treatments worth your $$$.