When searching for ways to eliminate fine lines and wrinkles on your face, you will no doubt come across the brand name Botox®. Despite being a popular treatment that has been used for many years now in and out of the cosmetic industry, there are still many myths circulating around these injections. Some of these myths may even have you worried, such as Botox® being unsafe or toxic. Let’s put your mind at ease. Today, the team at DrSkin Med Spa in Gilbert, AZ aims to debunk several of these fictitious claims about Botox®.
What is Botox®?
Botox® is a brand name for a type of purified protein called botulinum toxin, a kind of neurotoxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When injected into the body, Botox® works by blocking the signals that normally cause muscles to contract. In other words, Botox® temporarily relaxes muscles, which can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It is commonly used to treat dynamic wrinkles, which are caused by repetitive facial expressions, such as frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead wrinkles.
You will find that Botox® has a long medical and cosmetic history and has been FDA-approved for more than just reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
7 Common Myths About Botox® Injections
Now it is time to separate fact from fiction when it comes to Botox® injections. Although widely used, Botox® is also widely misunderstood. Let’s look at 7 common myths about Botox® and the truth behind them.
Myth #1: Botox® is Toxic
Botox® injections are made from a purified form of the botulinum toxin, which is safe when used in the appropriate dosage and administered by a qualified medical professional, like those of the Arizona Medical Spa, DrSkin. Our team has been specifically trained to administer Botox® injections safely, ensuring zero downtime and minimal side effects.
It should also be known that, as mentioned earlier, Botox® has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Since 2002, Botox® has been used by millions of people across the planet. There have only been a few cases of reported allergic reactions. It’s important to note that these adverse reactions are very rare, and most people who undergo Botox® injections experience no significant side effects. However, it’s still important to discuss the risks and benefits of Botox® injections with a qualified medical professional before deciding to undergo the procedure.
Myth #2: Botox® Injections are Painful
The truth is that Botox® injections are barely felt by most patients. While some people may experience mild discomfort during the injection process, Botox® injections are usually described as a “quick pinch” that lasts a few seconds. In fact, many people report feeling no pain at all during the procedure.
Myth #3: Botox® is Permanent
Botox® injections are not permanent and typically last between three and six months, depending on the area being treated and your metabolism. Any results that you see are temporary, as your body naturally breaks down Botox® and removes it from the body. Therefore, you do not have to worry about the results lingering if you do not like them. You also do not have to fear a Botox® buildup.
If you would like to extend the results of your Botox® session, you can schedule maintenance treatments for every 4-6 months.
Myth #4: Botox® Can Only Be Used on Wrinkles
While Botox® injections are commonly used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, they can also benefit you in other ways. In fact, Botox® has been approved by the FDA for more than cosmetic use. The injections are also used to treat the following medical conditions:
- Migraines
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle spasms
- Crossed eyes
- Overactive bladder
There are other conditions in which Botox® injections can be used. You can also receive Botox® injections for various sorts of pain, like sciatic nerve pain.
Myth #5: Botox® Will Make You Look Frozen
Although the media has portrayed the results of Botox® injections as looking abnormal or leaving the face frozen, that is not correct. The reality is that Botox® relaxes tense muscles, helping you look more well rested and youthful. You will still be able to form facial expressions! Furthermore, Botox® does not impact other muscles surrounding the injection site.
If you notice that someone looks “frozen” after a Botox® injection, it may be due to improper technique or an incorrect dose. That is why it is important to book your Botox® treatment with a reputable medical spa, such as DrSkin. Our technicians deftly inject Botox® so that your natural beauty and expressiveness shines through.
Myth #6: Botox® is Addictive
No, Botox® is not considered an addictive substance. Botox® injections do not contain any addictive ingredients or chemicals, and they do not produce a euphoric or psychoactive effect.
Myth #7: Botox® Injections Show Immediate Results
Many people assume that the effect of Botox® injections are immediate, but that is incorrect. It can take several days to a week for the effects of Botox® to become apparent.
After the injection, Botox® begins to work by blocking the signals that normally cause the muscles to contract. This process can take a few days to fully take effect. Once the muscles have relaxed, the skin above them begins to smooth out, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
The exact timing of the results will vary. You may notice results within a few days, while others may not see the full effects for up to a week or more.
Considering Getting a Botox® Injection?
Botox® is more accessible than ever. Now that you know more about Botox®, hopefully you feel more confident in your decision to receive a couple of injections. Whether you want to smooth away some crow’s feet, relax the muscles of your brow, or gain relief from pain or a medical condition, Botox® is an excellent option. At DrSkin Medical Spa in Gilbert, AZ, our highly qualified team is experienced at administering Botox® to a variety of clients, as well as providing other cosmetic surgeries and treatments. Give us a call today or fill out the contact form to book your consultation.
