Despite Botox being one of the most popular ways to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, there are many myths surrounding it. If you are considering using this cosmetic treatment to increase your confidence and love the way you look again, here is what you should know about the truth behind the most common myths about Botox.
Botox Is Toxic and Leads to Botulism
Botox is a well-established cosmetic procedure that has been safely performed for over 15 years. It was first used to treat muscle conditions in the 1980s, and in 2002 the FDA approved its use for treating fine lines and wrinkles in the face. Trained practitioners can safely perform Botox injections. The injections come from the bacteria that leads to botulism, but Botox injections do not cause or contribute to your risk of developing botulism.
Botox Will Make Your Face Expressionless
Botox helps reverse the signs of aging in your face by relaxing the muscles underneath the skin. One of the most common myths is that it freezes your face or makes it more challenging to change your facial expression. If your treatment is performed by an experienced professional, they will understand how much to use and exactly where it should be injected to remove wrinkles without affecting normal facial expression.
Botox Is Painful
Many patients associate needles with pain, but that is not necessarily the case with Botox injections. There is very little pain or discomfort, and most procedures only require five minutes from start to finish. If you have any specific concerns, you can speak with your practitioner ahead of time to ask questions or learn more about the needles being used.
Botox Is Only Appropriate for Cosmetic Concerns
As mentioned above, Botox was used for other conditions long before it was FDA approved for treating wrinkles. Some of the conditions that Botox has been used to treat include:
- Hyperhidrosis, or excessive underarm sweating
- Migraine
- Overactive bladder
- Eyelid spasms
- Crossed eyes
- Cervical dystonia
- And more!
Beyond the approved uses, it has also been used off-label to assist in treating psoriasis, alopecia, Raynaud’s disease, eczema, and vaginal pain. There are many different uses of this innovative treatment that go far beyond cosmetic purposes.
Botox Is the Same as Filler
Sometimes the terms filler and Botox are used interchangeably, which is deceptive. While both might be performed by the same doctors, there are key differences between the two. Botox is effective at removing wrinkles around the eyes and forehead, while fillers are applied below the eyes, in the cheeks, around the jawline, and on the lower portion of the face. Fillers are used to give volume to the face, while Botox is typically done to treat creases and wrinkles.
Anyone Can Perform Botox
This myth is very dangerous, as some people assume that anyone can successfully perform injections. Botox must be performed by an experienced professional, as it is a medical procedure involving needles. Make sure that you carefully choose your provider and look at their portfolio to see their past successful patients. They should be willing to answer any questions that you have during your consultation.
