Botox for Beginners in San Diego: A First-Timer’s Guide
Hi there, I’m Nyree Van Maarseveen, WHNP, CNM, and owner of Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness here in beautiful Point Loma, San Diego. If you’re considering Botox for the first time, I know it can feel like a big decision. You’re not alone—many of our patients come in feeling curious, a little nervous, and full of questions. That’s exactly why I created this guide—to walk you through everything you need to know, so you can feel confident and informed about your first Botox experience.
We believe beauty should reflect your energy—refreshed, empowered, and unmistakably YOU. Let’s dive into the details together.
What Is Botox, Really?
Botox is a brand name for botulinum toxin—just like Advil is a brand name for ibuprofen. It’s a purified protein that temporarily relaxes the facial muscles that cause expression lines.
Think of it as a gentle reset button for your expressions—it softens the areas that tend to crease over time, like the forehead, between the brows (the “11s”), and crow’s feet. The result? A smoother, more refreshed look without changing how you express yourself.
For a deeper look, visit our post: What is the Difference Between Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Daxxify?
Is Botox Safe?
Absolutely. When administered by a trained and licensed professional (like a Nurse Practitioner—hi, that’s me!), Botox is very safe. It's FDA-approved and backed by decades of clinical research. At Beauty Energy Exchange, I always start with a detailed consultation to ensure you’re a great candidate and feel completely at ease. We also specialize in natural-looking Botox, so your results feel subtle and authentic.
Who Gets Botox in San Diego?
You might be surprised. Our clients are teachers, entrepreneurs, fitness lovers, new moms—and yes, men too. Some are in their late 20s starting preventative Botox, while others are in their 40s or 50s looking to soften deeper lines or simply look more refreshed.
There’s no “right” age to begin—just the right time for you.
What to Expect Before Your Appointment
The Consultation
We’ll chat in a relaxed setting about your goals, lifestyle, and facial movement patterns. I’ll assess your facial structure and muscle strength to customize your treatment. There’s no pressure—just real talk and expert guidance. For those considering multiple treatments, we often pair Botox with dermal fillers for a more complete result.
Pre-Treatment Tips
A few things to avoid before your appointment:
Alcohol (24 hours prior)
Blood-thinning medications like ibuprofen or aspirin (unless prescribed)
Fish oil or vitamin E supplements
This helps minimize any potential bruising.
The Botox Appointment: Quick, Simple, and Virtually Painless
Most first-timers are shocked by how fast the actual treatment is—it takes about 10 to 15 minutes. We use tiny needles and a gentle hand. You might feel a small pinch, but many say it’s less intense than a brow wax or even tweezing your eyebrows.
Afterward, you can head back to work, run errands, or grab lunch—no downtime required. For a deeper dive into your first visit, check out Post-Botox Care: Dos and Don’ts.
What Not to Do After Botox
Aftercare is simple, but important:
No lying down for 4 hours
Skip strenuous workouts for the rest of the day
Avoid touching or rubbing your face
These help ensure the Botox settles exactly where it’s supposed to and works its magic.
When Will I See Results?
Results start to show within 3 to 5 days, with full effects around day 10 to 14. It’s like watching a slow, graceful filter take over—your skin softens, your expressions feel more relaxed, and you still look like yourself, just more refreshed.
How Long Does Botox Last?
Typically, results last 3 to 4 months. The more consistent you are, the longer you may go between treatments over time. Some clients like to schedule treatments seasonally or around big events like weddings or vacations. Many of our patients also explore pairing Botox with PDO thread lifts or microneedling for extended anti-aging support.
Will I Look “Frozen”?
This is one of the biggest myths—and one of the top concerns I hear. The answer? Not at Beauty Energy Exchange. My goal is always to enhance, not change. We specialize in natural-looking results. You’ll still smile, laugh, and raise your eyebrows—just with smoother skin.
How Long Does Botox Last?
Typically, results last 3 to 4 months. The more consistent you are, the longer you may go between treatments over time. Some clients like to schedule treatments seasonally or around big events like weddings or vacations. Many of our patients also explore pairing Botox with PDO thread lifts or microneedling for extended anti-aging support.
Will I Look “Frozen”?
This is one of the biggest myths—and one of the top concerns I hear. The answer? Not at Beauty Energy Exchange. My goal is always to enhance, not change. We specialize in natural-looking results. You’ll still smile, laugh, and raise your eyebrows—just with smoother skin.
How Much Botox Do I Need?
This depends on your facial anatomy and goals. For example:
Forehead: 10-20 units
Frown lines (11s): 15-25 units
Crow’s feet: 16-24 units (including both sides)
During our consult, we’ll map it out together. We never overdo it. Subtle, customized dosing is our secret to natural results.
How Much Does Botox Cost in San Diego?
At Beauty Energy Exchange, we charge per unit. Most clients invest around $300–$600 for their first treatment. We’re transparent about pricing and will never surprise you with hidden costs. Read our transparent cost guide here.
Why Choose Beauty Energy Exchange for Botox in San Diego?
We don’t just inject Botox—we build relationships and honor the energy behind your beauty. As a board-certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Nurse Midwife, I bring a medical lens with a deeply human touch.
Our med spa isn’t about trends or quick fixes. We’re about restoring harmony between how you feel and how you show up in the world. Explore our payment plans or take advantage of our monthly specials to make Botox more accessible.
Tips for Your First Botox Appointment
1. Don’t Wait for a Milestone
Many people wait for wrinkles to deepen before starting Botox. But preventative Botox helps slow the development of lines—sort of like using sunscreen before the sunburn.
2. Ask All the Questions
There are no silly questions. If something’s on your mind, ask. I’ll walk you through it.
3. Start Conservatively
We can always add more later—but we can’t take it away once it’s injected. Less is often more.
FAQs
1. How long does my first Botox appointment take?
Expect about 30–45 minutes, including your consultation and treatment.
2. Can I wear makeup to my Botox appointment?
Yes, but we’ll cleanse the treatment areas. You can reapply makeup after a few hours.
3. What if I don’t like the results?
Botox wears off naturally over time. Plus, we take a conservative approach to help you avoid that scenario.
4. Can I get Botox and fillers at the same time?
Yes, and many clients do. We can discuss a plan that addresses both dynamic and static lines.
5. Is there anything I should do before coming in?
Hydrate, skip alcohol, avoid blood thinners, and come in with an open mind and all your questions.
When You’re Ready, We’re Here
Taking the first step can feel vulnerable—but it’s also incredibly empowering. Whether you’re doing this for a confidence boost, self-care, or just out of curiosity, you deserve a provider who sees you, listens, and delivers results that feel aligned with who you are.
I’d love to be that provider for you.
Let’s connect when you’re ready.
With warmth,
Nyree Van Maarseveen, WHNP, CNM
Schedule a consultation at Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness today!
Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness
1050 Rosecrans St, Suite 8
San Diego, CA 92106
https://www.beautyenergyexchange.com
