7 Common Myths About Botox You Should Know

Botox, the cosmetic injectable hailed for its ability to relax wrinkles and lines, first gained FDA-approval in 2002. Since then, it has received clearance for a number of other cosmetic and medical indications and has become a staple in many women and men’s skincare regimens.

Despite being one of the most popular cosmetic treatments, a number of individuals still hold false beliefs about Botox. Keep reading for 7 common Botox myths and the truth behind them.

1. Botox is Dangerous

Botox is a neurotoxin derived from Clostridium botulinum and is used to relax overactive muscles or glands. Its efficacy and safety have been thoroughly evaluated in order to gain FDA-approval for the treatment of lines, wrinkles, and a number of medical conditions.

2. It Will Make Your Face Look Unnatural or Frozen

This is one of the most common Botox myths.

The dreaded frozen face is often due too much product, and it can easily be avoided by seeking treatment from a skilled and experienced injector like Dr. Hayre.

She precisely injects Botox in McLean, Northern Virginia, at specific doses to provide natural results that help women and men look refreshed and more youthful.

3. Botox Can Erase All Wrinkles

Botox is extremely effective in relaxing and smoothing dynamic wrinkles, which occur with facial movement.

However, static wrinkles that are present when the face is at rest, typically require a combination of Botox and other non-surgical treatments like dermal fillers, radiofrequency, lasers, or chemical peels.

4. It Can Make You Look Older If You Stop Treatment

Here’s the truth about this Botox myth: If a patient decides to discontinue Botox injections, his or her wrinkles will gradually return to their pre-treatment state.

Therefore, as relaxed muscles become active again, patients will notice the reappearance of lines that they already had.

5. Injections Hurt

Most individuals find Botox to be a very quick and painless procedure. It typically takes 10-15 minutes and feels like a light pinprick. Ice can also be used to numb the treatment area to improve patient comfort.

6. Botox Provides Permanent Wrinkle Reduction

The effects of Botox typically last 4-6 months and follow-up injections are needed to maintain treatment benefits.

7. Botox Results Are Immediately Visible

It can take 1-3 days for patients to note some smoothing and relaxation of wrinkles, and 7-12 days before full effects are visible. That being said, Botox provides these results after only one treatment and requires zero downtime.

If you are considering Botox in McLean, Northern Virginia, for any reason, please contact our office to schedule an appointment with expert injector Dr. Nicole Hayre.