How to Survive Your First Botox Treatment

Botox injections are the ultimate solution for millions of Americans who yearn for their youthful looks, and for those who are ready to say goodbye to wrinkles. The botox procedure itself is quick, efficient, and will have you in and out of the office during your lunch break. Hollywood isn't the only consumer of botox treatments, and it's quickly becoming one of the most popular cosmetic rejuvenation procedures around the world. If you've decided it's time for your crow's feet and wrinkles to disappear, a botox injection (or two) awaits; here's how to survive your first botox treatment:

1. Skip the beer and wine for seven days. You'll need to give up all forms of alcohol for at least seven days prior to your botox treatment so that you won't be all bruised up from the process. Anti-inflammatory drugs are also off limits.

2. Don't take aspirin for headaches. Headaches are common after treatment, and usually subside within 24-48 hours.

3. Stay busy right after treatment. While you don't necessarily have to go back to work, you do need to keep your head in an upright position for at least 4 hours. The treatment needs to 'stay put' and set into your muscles properly; this means no lying down or resting your head.

4. Put on your poker face. Funny faces, a surprise reaction, or simply laughing too hard can make it difficult for your treatment to set properly. Avoid the movies, visiting friends, or any activity that will make you frown or laugh.

5. Don't think about the needle. Since the botox treatment is so quick an deficient, no anesthesia is applied to the patient. You'll probably experience a slight pinch from the injection, but it's usually not any more painful than having your blood drawn.

6. Don't expect overnight results. The treatment will set in within 24 hours, but you won't see any major effects until 72 hours later. In some cases, the effects won't show up until a week later, so be prepared for a few changes in the days ahead.