Considering Botox for the First Time? Here’s What You Should Know

If you're thinking about getting Botox for the first time—welcome! You're not alone. Botox is one of the most popular aesthetic treatments in the world, and for good reason: it’s quick, effective, and when done right, the results are subtle and natural. FreshRx in Fallston, MD is no stranger to first-time patients who are curious, but also a little nervous. Maybe you've been noticing lines between your brows that stick around even when you're not frowning, or you’re wondering how to “look less tired” without changing your face. Whether you're in your 20s and thinking about preventative Botox, or you're in your 40s or 50s and ready to soften some deeper lines, this post is for you.

Here are the most common questions that Nurse practitioner Ellen Lancaster gets from first-time Botox patients:

What Exactly Is Botox?

Botox is the brand name for the medication botulinum toxin type A—a purified protein that temporarily relaxes the muscles that cause wrinkles. In aesthetic medicine, Botox is most commonly used in the upper face to smooth:

• Forehead lines

• Frown lines (a.k.a. “11s” between the brows)

• Crow’s feet (around the eyes)

When those muscles stop contracting so hard, the overlying skin cannot create amd reinforce creases, so the skin looks smoother and more refreshed.

Will I Look Frozen or Overdone after trying Botox?

This is definitely the #1 fear—and the short answer is: not if it’s done well.

At FreshRx, Nurse Practitioner Ellen takes a conservative, customized approach. The goal is to help you look like you—just more rested and refreshed. If patients want to have plenty of expression after treatment, then they will! The goal isn’t to freeze your face—it’s to soften movement that’s creating creases in the skin. One of the things that makes NP Ellen's care at FreshRx stand out is her consultation process. She understands that each person has unique goals for their treatment: some people want a gentle treatment, others want a robust treatment to last as long as possible. With this in mind, NP Ellen schedules each FreshRx appointment with plenty of time to discuss goals and confirm the treatment plan with each patient.

Botox is both an art and a science, and most patients lean toward wanting natural-looking results. If you're particularly nervous, schedule an appointment for a Botox consultation! There is no pressure to have treatment done during your first visit to FreshRx.

How Long Does Botox Last?

For most people, Botox lasts about 3 to 4 months, though results vary based on your metabolism, activity level, and how expressive you are. Over time, with consistent treatments, many patients find their results last longer, and they often need less product. At FreshRx in Fallston, most patients make appointments 3-4 times a year.

Are Botox Treatments Painful?

Most patients say Botox feels like a tiny pinch. A very small needle is used, and the treatment itself takes about 5–10 minutes. Some patients don’t feel much of anything at all. NP Ellen offers numbing cream to every Botox patient at her office in Fallston, whether they are having multiple areas treated or just one small area.

If you’re nervous, the use of ice, numbing, and even distraction tools make treatments even more comfortable. Because NP Ellen only treats one patient at a time at her private office in Fallston, you’ll never feel rushed or pressured.

Is There Any Downtime to Botox Treatments?

Very little! You may have some small red bumps at the injection sites right after treatment (they usually go away within 15–25 minutes). Some people get a small bruise, but it’s not common.

Here are the main rules post-treatment:

• No lying down for 2 hours

• No strenuous exercise for 2 hours

• Don’t rub or massage the treated areas

That’s it! Most people go right back to work or daily life.

When Will I See Results?

Botox doesn’t work instantly. You’ll start noticing results around day 3 to 5, with full results around day 10 to 14. NP Ellen always recommends a follow-up around 2 weeks after your first visit to make sure everything kicked in and settled as expected, and that you're happy with your results. It is not uncommon for adjustments to be needed after someone's very first Botox treatment, so make sure to follow up with your injector after the results are complete. Even if to just say "thank you my results look great!"

How Much Botox Will I Need?

This depends on your muscle strength, age, and goals—but here’s a general range:

• Forehead lines: 10–20 units

• Frown lines (11s): 18–25 units

• Crow’s feet: 10–25 units per side

During your consultation, NP Ellen will map out a plan that fits your facial anatomy and budget. One thing NP Ellen values most is transparency; you will never be met with an unpleasant surprise when it comes time to pay for your treatment. Pricing should be easy to understand. Before completing your treatment, NP Ellen will discuss how many units you'll need to reach your goals, and what the final cost comes to.

Am I Too Young (or Too Old) for Botox?

Botox is FDA-approved for adults 18 and older, but the right time to start depends on your goals. Some patients start in their 20s or 30s for preventative Botox, while others start in their 40s or 50s and beyond to soften existing lines.

It’s never too late (or too early) to take care of your skin. If you’re not sure, we can always do a Botox or overall skincare consultation with no pressure to treat that day.

Why Choose FreshRx for Your Botox Treatment?

There are a lot of places offering Botox in Maryland—but FreshRx is different.

As a board-certified nurse practitioner with an extensive background in aesthetic medicine, NP Ellen at FreshRx provides a personalized, high-touch experience in a quiet, private setting. No crowded waiting rooms, no upselling—just honest, expert care in a relaxed environment.

FreshRx is based in Fallston, MD, and proudly serves patients from Bel Air, Harford County, Baltimore, and surrounding areas. Whether this is your very first aesthetic treatment or you're looking for a new injector, NP Ellen is here to help you feel confident, informed, and supported.

Feeling Ready to Try Botox?

If you’re curious about Botox and want to explore your options in a no-pressure, personalized setting, let’s chat! You can book a consultation online or text Nurse practitioner Ellen directly at 410-929-6051.

Let’s take the guesswork out of your first Botox experience and help you feel like the freshest version of you. You deserve it!