Botox: Smoothing the Myths

Despite it’s proven safety and track record, BOTOX Cosmetic is the “King of Myths” when it comes to cosmetic procedures.

The truth is, since it’s FDA approval in 2002, BOTOX Cosmetic is one of the most effective and safest non-surgical cosmetic procedure for men and women all over the world who want to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

With over six million injections per year, BOTOX Cosmetic is the #1 treatment for wrinkles that  softens worry lines, relaxes frown lines, reduces crow’s feet, and lifts eyebrows, providing a complete rejuvenation of the face.

Don’t let misinformation or myths stand in the way of allowing BOTOX Cosmetic to rejuvenate your face by kissing those moderate to severe wrinkles good bye.

Below are a few of the myths you may have heard about BOTOX Cosmetic:

Myth #1: BOTOX Cosmetic injections are painful and addictive.

With the use of small needle and numbing creams, BOTOX Cosmetic injections are not painful at all. Many patients describe their sensation to that of acupuncture or being pinched. The entire procedure is completed in as little as ten minutes and you are able to go about your regular activities immediately after.

BOTOX Cosmetic has zero addictive ingredients, however, don’t be surprised if you become addicted to your flawless face after just one treatment.

Myth #2: Botox Cosmetic is toxic

Some people believe Botox Cosmetic can kill you. While the word “toxin” can be worrisome, the injected amounts of BOTOX Cosmetic are no-where near toxic levels.

Botox Cosmetic is actually a purified derivative of botulinum protein, therefore doesn’t carry botulism. Botox Cosmetic is injected in small, targeted amounts and proven safe for cosmetic use.

The use of Botox is not new. Initially used in the 1980’s to treat ocular conditions, Botox has been on the scene for over 30 years with a remarkable safety record.

Myth #3: Your face will look frozen

One of the most common myths is that Botox Cosmetic injections will leave your face motionless, unable to show expression and completely frozen. Considering the amount of over-injected celebrities in Hollywood, the stigma is understandable.

However, a properly trained medical professional will minimized wrinkles while producing natural looking results. In other words, you’ll be able to show expressions, disguising the fact that you have had Botox Cosmetic at all.

Myth #4: If you stop getting Botox, your wrinkles will deepen

On the contrary… one of the reasons wrinkles form around your eyes and forehead is due to repetitive movement, or more specifically, facial expressions.

When you get BOTOX Cosmetic, the muscles used for facial expressions are relaxed, thus smoothing out existing wrinkles. While under the effect of BOTOX Cosmetic, deeper wrinkles are unable to form.

However, when the full effect of BOTOX Cosmetic wears off, the wrinkles will return to its status before BOTOX Cosmetic, which often causes patients to believe their wrinkles have worsened, when in reality, they are the same as before.

Myth #5: You can only get BOTOX Cosmetic if you have wrinkles

One of the most gratifying benefits of BOTOX Cosmetic is that it prevents wrinkles from forming, in addition to treating existing wrinkles and fine lines.

Younger patients use BOTOX Cosmetic around the age of 25 years or when sign of aging start to show, to prevent the formation of wrinkles in the first place, helping them look young, longer.

Myth #6: Botox is permanent

A one treatment solution for wrinkles does not exist. BOTOX Cosmetic is not a permanent treatment for your fine lines and wrinkles. Slowly over time –  3 to 5 months on average – the effects of BOTOX Cosmetic begin to wear off and injections must be repeated to maintain the same fresh look that you love.

Over time, however, you may need less BOTOX Cosmetic to gain the same effect.

Myth #7: Anyone can inject BOTOX Cosmetic

Absolutely not. Botox is a medical procedure and only those licensed and certified through training may inject a patient.

Additionally, in the United States, BOTOX Cosmetic injections must be performed or supervised by a physician.

Myth #8: BOTOX Cosmetic treats all wrinkles

BOTOX Cosmetic is FDA approved for fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and forehead. Specifically, the frown lines, crow’s feet and forehead lines. It reduces the appearance of wrinkles by relaxing the muscle that causes the wrinkle to form.

Other alternatives, such as dermal fillers, are available to soften wrinkles around the mouth. Dermal fillers are also used to get a lifting effect by adding volume to cheekbones and filling volume loss under the eyes and temples.

Myth #9: BOTOX Cosmetic results are immediate

Not exactly. The average patient experiences results from Botox between 5 to 7 days, although, results continue to improve up to two weeks post injection.

Myth #10: Botox only treats wrinkles.

Even though Botox is mostly known for smoothing wrinkles, it’s “off label” applications have given BOTOX Cosmetic a huge name in the medicine world. From hyperhidrosis to treating migraines to improving stress incontinence, BOTOX Cosmetic is widely used for a variety of medical purposes to improve the quality of life of many patients.

With all the accolades, both medical and cosmetic, the safety and effectiveness of BOTOX Cosmetic has been tested and proven effective.

Please discuss any concerns with a medical professional, including side-effects before getting BOTOX Cosmetic to rejuvenate your appearance.

If you are ready for BOTOX Cosmetic, it’s time to schedule your no obligation, complimentary consultation at SKINovative in Gilbert by calling  (480) 913-4675.

About Dr. Fulton

Dr. William Fulton of SKINovative of Gilbert, is a diplomate of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine and board-certified in Emergency Medicine. He is on the faculty at the International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine where he stays up to date on the latest clinical and practice management information.