Botox is becoming more popular among both men and women of all age groups. Yet, there are many myths surrounding Botox that still exist. Don’t let misinformation stop you from regaining your confidence and freshening your look with Botox. We’re here to dispel common, long-standing myths and give you the real truth behind them, so you can be informed. Let’s separate Botox facts from fiction.
1. It’s Dangerous
Botox was first approved by the FDA in 1989 as a treatment for some medical disorders. By 2002, it was approved as a cosmetic treatment. Millions of people around the world have safely and effectively received Botox injections since this time.
Like any other treatment, however, Botox is safest when it’s handled by a qualified plastic surgeon at appropriate doses. In the hands of a qualified doctor, the risks are minimal.
2. It Can Give You Botulism
Part of the reason why some think Botox isn’t safe is that it’s derived from botulinum, a neurotoxin. It comes from bacteria that can cause botulism food poisoning, which can lead to paralysis and even death.
However, Botox only remains at the injection site to relax certain muscles. It won’t spread and infect your body.
3. It’ll Lead to a “Frozen” Face
We’ve all seen “botched Botox” cases on TV or online. This can scare some away from the cosmetic treatment. However, when receiving Botox injections from a qualified doctor with expertise and experience, you will still be able to display emotions and expressions on your face after treatment. Botox simply relaxes the muscles around smile lines, furrows on the forehead, and crow’s feet. It won’t affect all facial muscles.
4. Botox Can Remove All Wrinkles
If you’re looking to treat static wrinkles, which are the result of sun exposure and aging, you’re out of luck. Botox only treats dynamic wrinkles, which are the facial lines that are created by movement. Other types of wrinkles won’t be affected by Botox.
5. It’s Only for Women
Many women love Botox and get injections regularly. However, men aren’t excluded from this treatment option. In fact, more men are now getting Botox than ever before, even those in their 30s. Some have even started calling it “Bro-tox”!
6. Injections Are Painful
Are you avoiding Botox because of a fear of pain? Don’t worry. The Botox needle is very fine and only a small amount of liquid is injected. It’ll hurt less than receiving a vaccine. You should only expect to feel small pinches and mild discomfort during treatment—and these feelings will disappear within seconds.
7. It Works Immediately
If you want a more youthful look for a big event such as a wedding or high school reunion, plan to have injections ahead of time—not the day of. Many people think Botox starts working immediately, but it typically only starts working between three and 10 days after treatment. Over this time, the muscles relax and the wrinkles are reduced.
8. Botox Is Only Used to Treat Winkles
Botox was first approved by the FDA to treat medical conditions, and it’s still used for this purpose today. Because of its ability to create less strain on the nervous system and reduce muscle tension, it’s a great treatment for migraines. It’s also commonly used to treat excessive sweating, an overactive bladder, TMJ, psoriasis, depression, and more.
9. You Can Never Stop Using Botox Once You Start
Botox isn’t permanent. The effects will last anywhere from three to six months. However, some believe if they don’t keep up with regular injections, their wrinkles will get worse. Once the effects wear off, the normal development of wrinkles will resume as normal, but it will not worsen.