Botox, an approved brand of neuromodulator, is used to temporarily improve appearance of dynamic wrinkles (caused by movement), between the brows and crow’s feet. Its cosmetic approval for use in 78 countries, has made it a highly sought after wrinkle eraser. It has been safely used for over 20 years, and due to its longevity, it has been studied and evaluated many, many times. Botox has also been approved for medical uses, including treatment of migraines, hyperhidrosis (overactive sweat glands), and muscle spasms.
At Manhattan Microneedling, Botox and other injectables are only performed by highly skilled physicians and plastic surgeons with superior level of training. Our physicians have done thousands of injectables and dermal filler treatments, very important for desired results. At our practice you will never find a non physician injecting these products.
There are laws that designate who can and cannot administer neuromodulators and dermal fillers. Whether you’re considering Botox for wrinkles or medical reasons, you might be overwhelmed with information. So let us take a look at some common myths:
Myth: Botox can cause botulism
Fact: Even though it is derived from botulinum toxin (bacteria that causes food poisoning), amounts are very small, intended to work only at injection site, where wrinkles form.
Myth: Botox is not safe
Fact: As previously mentioned, Botox received approval by the FDA over 20 years ago to treat certain medical conditions. It has been used on millions of people. Keep in mind that any injectables for appearance enhancement are safest under the hands of a physician and recommended doses. It is of essence finding a doctor with experience to ensure safety and desired results.
Myth: My face will look frozen
Fact: Wrinkles will relax at the point of injection, usually glabellar lines and crow’s feet.
Myth: All of my wrinkles will disappear
Fact: Dynamic wrinkles are treated, that is, those lines that occur during facial expression. Botox doesn’t respond to static wrinkles- wrinkles that are already set on your face, usually a result of sun exposure and other lifestyle factors. I’ll discuss that topic on my next blog.
Myth: Injections are painful
Fact: There is some mild discomfort as with any injections, but needles are super fine. Most clients report a pinching sensation.
Myth: I will get addicted
Fact: It’s most likely you’ll become addicted to your younger, smoother appearance, making you to come back for repeated injections. Neuromodulators do not have any addictive properties.
Myth: My skin will look worse over time
Fact: Once it wears off, your wrinkles will become just how they were originally. The aging process is inevitable, so lines will continue to progress unless it is slowed down by any other anti aging treatment.
Myth: Botox has immediate effects
Fact: The onset of Botox is between 2-14 days, peaking at about two weeks. Depending on some factors, Botox lasts between 3-4 months.
Myth: Botox can be injected in any area of my face
Fact: Botox is approved for lines between the brows and crow’s feet, even though there is off label use for other areas like the neck.
