Myths and Facts About Botox
Botox® is the No. 1 nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in the United States. However, like any medical procedure, there can be some misconceptions about how it works and whether it’s safe or not thanks to the endless amount of information about Botox on the internet and social media.
Are you considering Botox injections to reduce your wrinkles? In this post, board-certified dermatologist Michael Rains, M.D., FAAD, and the rest of our team at Beacon Dermatology bust the myths and give you the facts about this popular cosmetic treatment.
What exactly is Botox?
Botox is a botulinum toxin injection that blocks nerve signals to keep your muscles from contracting. It’s most popularly used for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines in certain areas of your face like your forehead and eyes.
The misconceptions explained
While a wealth of information is available, there still can be a lot of misinformation and bias concerning Botox and its purpose and side effects. We aim to debunk these myths for you so you have the facts concerning this popular procedure.
Myth: Botox is unsafe
Since Botox is made from a botulinum toxin that can be life-threatening in large doses, it may be thought of as dangerous. However, this is not the case.
For cosmetic purposes, Botox is used in very small doses, and a study published in 2021 showed that most side effects of Botox are very mild and only last a few days at most. As long as you’re seeing a trained practitioner who follows FDA guidelines for Botox administration, it’s considered very safe and effective.
Myth: Botox is painful
The needles that are used during Botox are thin and small, the process is overall fairly painless. For cosmetic use, the injections are applied superficially and no incisions are made, which reduces the possibility of the procedure being painful.
At most, you could feel a slight sting or pinch when your provider inserts the needle, but it’s nothing that could cause undue discomfort. And the results are worth it!
Myth: Botox is permanent
You may have heard that Botox can “freeze” your face. But this phrasing can give the wrong idea. This neuromodulator does stop your muscles from contracting to prevent the formation of dynamic wrinkles, but the effects of Botox do wear off over time, lasting for about four months.
Botox is a safe and relatively painless approach for cosmetic use, and the effects are never permanent. This can be helpful if you come to decide that Botox isn’t for you. However, if you enjoy Botox and its outcomes, you can come in for repeat injections every few months to extend your results.
Next steps
Beacon Dermatology is a premier dermatology practice in Asheville, North Carolina, that offers comprehensive aesthetic services — including Botox. If you have facial lines or wrinkles that you want smoothed out, Botox may be for you.