If you live in Chicago, Botox is almost essential for weathering the city’s many extremes. Beautiful summers and grueling winters. Stanley Cup celebrations and heartbreaking baseball teams. It all induces an equally extreme range of smiles, frowns, and squints. Those muscle contractions are a major cause of wrinkles and frown lines. While the Windy City’s no more wrinkled than any other, it’s easy to see why Botox treatments are there.

What is Botox?

Botox contains a protein refined from a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. Its most common use is to diminish wrinkles, frown lines, and crow’s-feet, though doctors have also administered Botox for sweating issues and neck cramping.

How does Botox work?

Those muscles that get a workout every time you squint or frown? Those are the targets. When injected, Botox temporarily reduces muscle activity. By stopping the muscles from contracting, Botox gives the frown lines and wrinkles a chance to smooth out.

What should I expect from a treatment?

When used cosmetically, Botox is injected directly into facial muscles, typically in areas surrounding the eyes or forehead. The number of injections and the length of the treatment vary depending on the area being treated and the severity of the wrinkles. It’s administered by a fine needle, and some patients have reported a small pinch or stinging feeling. Doctors might use ice or offer a topical cream to numb the area before the injection, and afterward patients can resume their normal activities without needing recovery time.

How long does Botox last?

Noticeable results can appear within 24–48 hours of the injections and have been reported to last anywhere from 3–12 months. Results are temporary, and their extent and length vary from person to person. People looking for longer-lasting results usually get injections at regular intervals.

Where can I get Botox?

Many clinics in Chicago offer Botox. Essence MedSpa & Wellness Center on the city’s north side has a tranquil spa environment alongside massages, facials, and yoga classes. Closer to downtown, Embassy Studio specializes in hair restoration and other clinical beauty treatments.