The modern man's guide to getting Botox

Joe Jonas is now the face of injectables.

Who would have thought? Not me. But I guess I also never imagined that any member of 1D would end up shaping the sartorial landscape of men's fashion in 2022, so what do I know? In a new partnership with Xeomin (a rival alternative to Botox), Joe brandishes the idea of “beauty on my terms,” hitting a few key messaging points:

1. He can fit these treatments into his busy recording artist schedule. “If he can, so can you!”

2. He still “looks” like “himself.” In Act I of the advertisement, Joe says, “who wants to wake up looking like someone else?” somehow oblivious to the fact that, for a few beats, he is unrecognizable.

STARTLING STATISTICS: 33.33% of the Jonas Brothers are married to Priyanka Chopra.

He launched this campaign with an interview with People where he wants to destigmatize the relationship between men and the anti-aging procedures. It’s smart and perhaps the next evolution of male-led beauty signaling to (straight, probably?) men en masse that it’s okay, maybe even cool, to take care of your appearance. If this particular Jonas has made you curious about the procedures, here’s a quick starter guide on botulinum toxin — more commonly known as Botox.

What is Botox?

Botox is a neurotoxic protein that causes temporary muscle paralysis. In small doses, it can be used to weaken the muscles that cause facial wrinkles.

Is Xeomin different from Botox?

Mostly, no. The injectable is marketed by a few different brands: Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau. They’re all just brand names for the same active ingredient. Think of it like ibuprofen. Advil and Motrin are just different brand names for the same drug.

[Editor’s note: With that in mind, over the course of this article, I may use “Botox” as a generic term for botulinum toxin — as is commonly done in modern parlance. Where necessary, I will differentiate between the different brands.]

Can men get Botox?

Of course.

How does Botox/Xeomin/Dysport work to stop wrinkles?

By limiting the movement of the facial muscles, these injectables are able to stop the skin from wrinkling. Go ahead and furrow your brow into a reflective surface. The wrinkles that form are “dynamic wrinkles” — wrinkles that show up when your face moves. Botox is most helpful at targeting these wrinkles. “Static wrinkles,” or wrinkles that are there while your face is at rest, will benefit less from these treatments.

What’s it like getting Botox/Xeomin/Dysport?

Once you find a reputable practitioner, you will arrive at your appointment. Usually, the area isn’t numbed, but if you really wanted, you could ask them to numb it. Using a very tiny needle, the Botox/Xeomin/Dysport is injected somewhat superficially into your treatment areas. You will have what looks like little mosquito bites at the injection sites for a few hours that will eventually fade. You’re cleaned up and sent on your way. It is a very quick procedure.

Does it hurt?

A little sting. Like a lidocaine shot at the dentist.

How long does it take to see the results of Botox/Xeomin/Dysport?

Around a week, usually less. For several days after receiving the treatment, nothing happens. You may find yourself wondering if it did anything at all. Different brands work at different speeds in tandem with your body’s metabolism, so it could take two days. It could also take five. It has been my experience that Dysport works faster than Botox, but that may not be everyone’s experience.

How long does Botox/Xeomin/Dysport last?

Around 3–4 months, again depending on the product and your body’s metabolism.

What happens when you stop getting Botox/Xeomin/Dysport?

Your muscles will slowly begin to regain mobility, and you will return to your pre-Botox self.

What are the side effects of Botox/Xeomin/Dysport?

According to Mayo Clinic, there’s a chance of:

Burnin’ Up: Pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site
Who’s in Your Head: Headache or flu-like symptoms
When You Look Me in the Eyes: Droopy eyelid or cockeyed eyebrows
Happy When I’m Sad: Crooked smile or drooling
S.O.S: Eye dryness or excessive tearing

And, of course, there’s the very real possibility that it just doesn’t turn out how you want it to. That’s always a risk when it comes to any cosmetic procedure.