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Did you know that over 4.4 million botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) procedures took place in the US in 2020? While that’s a 13% decrease from the year before, it reflects a 459% increase from 2000.
Botox, in turn, remains one of the most popular BoNTA brands. It is, after all, the first-ever brand of the drug to appear on the market.
Despite its long history, many Botox myths are still floating around. This guide covers and busts the top misconceptions about it, so read on to discover the truth.
It’s Dangerous
Botox itself uses purified botulinum toxin, a neurotoxic protein. It comes from a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum.
That sounds dangerous and scary, but Botox only uses a minute amount of the toxin. That allows the drug to stop muscle activity in the treatment area.
So long as administered by a qualified professional, Botox injections are relatively safe.
It’s Only for Aesthetic Enhancement
No. On the contrary, the US Food and Drug Administration first approved it in 1989 for two rare eye disorders. Those include blepharospasm (involuntary eye movement) and strabismus (crossed eyes).
More than a decade later, the FDA approved Botox for cervical dystonia. It’s a condition that causes severe muscle contractions in the neck and shoulders.
Then, in 2002, Botox gained approval for moderate to severe frown lines. Since then, it has acquired more approved uses, from migraines to limb spasticity.
Botox now has 12 approved uses, both cosmetic and non-cosmetic.
It’s Very Painful
Injections can hurt because their needles pierce the skin, triggering a pain response.
However, since Botox injections use tiny needles, the pain they cause is often minimal. If you want to learn more about the needles used for the procedure, click here for a comprehensive guide.
Aside from using smaller needles, practitioners may also use anesthetics. For example, they may apply pain-relieving cream to the treatment area pre-injection. That can help in further reducing the discomfort the injections may cause.
Just remember that all drugs come with side effects, Botox included. Some swelling, bruising, or redness may occur after the injections but goes down within a few days.
It’s Permanent
No, it’s temporary, lasting only for as little as three months when used to treat smile lines or wrinkles. However, its effects can extend a little longer, depending on a person’s metabolic rate.
As the effects of Botox wear off, the treated area gradually becomes movable again. The smile lines or wrinkles reappear little by little. Patients can then schedule another procedure once the drug has completely worn off.
It’s the Same as Dermal Fillers
They’re different, but you can get them both during a facial rejuvenation procedure. The best dermal fillers plump up tissues, giving them more volume. That allows them to diminish the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles.
Stop Believing These Botox Myths
There you have it, the top Botox myths you should stop believing. Now you know it’s relatively safe, doesn’t cause extreme pain, and isn’t only for wrinkles.
However, it’s vital to get Botox only from a licensed, qualified professional. It’s a targeted procedure requiring accurate dosing, after all. Only a competent provider can ensure that the right amount of the drug goes where exactly you want it.
Are you ready for more skin health and beauty guides? Check out our latest posts on these topics, then!
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