Botulinum toxin is undoubtedly one of the most well-known and discussed aesthetic treatments in the world. Since its first use for aesthetic purposes in the 1980s, botulinum toxin has revolutionized the beauty industry by becoming the most popular non-surgical treatment for certain wrinkles.
However, despite its success and widespread use, many myths and misconceptions persist around botulinum toxin, creating misunderstandings and concerns among patients. This article aims to debunk these myths by deconstructing some of the most common misconceptions and presenting facts based on science and clinical experience.
Botulinum toxin is a purified protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When injected in small amounts into specific muscles, botulinum toxin works by blocking the nerve signals that trigger muscle contraction. This leads to a temporary relaxation of the targeted muscles, softening certain expression lines such as forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet, and glabellar lines (frown lines).
Botulinum toxin is not used solely for aesthetic purposes; it is also employed in various medical treatments, including the management of primary axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), as well as certain neurological, ophthalmological, and urological conditions.
Reality : when injected correctly by an experienced physician, botulinum toxin provides natural and subtle results.
One of the most common misconceptions about botulinum toxin is that it freezes the face, making it unable to move or express emotions. This belief stems from poor examples where excessive doses were used or the product was improperly injected. In reality, an experienced physician knows exactly where and how much botulinum toxin to inject to achieve a harmonious and natural result while opening the eyes (the brow lift effect). Botulinum toxin is precisely dosed to relax only the muscles responsible for expression lines while preserving most of the face’s natural mobility. Thus, you can still smile, move your eyebrows, and express your emotions without appearing “frozen.”
Reality : botulinum toxin is safe when injected by experienced physicians.
It is true that botulinum toxin is derived from botulinum toxin type A, but in medicine it is used in a purified form and at very low doses, which makes it safe. Botulinum toxin is approved by health authorities worldwide for the treatment of certain expression lines as well as for many medical indications. Millions of botulinum toxin treatments are performed each year without serious complications. The most common side effects, such as temporary bruising or headaches, are rare and minor. Serious risks are extremely low and occur almost exclusively when botulinum toxin is injected by unqualified individuals.
Reality : botulinum toxin is often used preventively (to prevent the formation of static wrinkles) in young adults.
Contrary to popular belief, botulinum toxin is not reserved for older individuals or those who already have deep wrinkles. Many people in their thirties choose botulinum toxin for preventive purposes, to stop static wrinkles from forming. Baby botulinum toxin, which uses lower doses for a subtle effect, has become especially popular among young adults who wish to maintain smooth skin and delay the appearance of wrinkles without altering their facial expressiveness. Botulinum toxin can therefore be used even in young adults to prevent or correct signs of aging.
Botulinum toxin is part of the Skin Prevent and Skin Restore protocols.
Reality : the effects of botulinum toxin are temporary and generally last between 3 and 6 months.
Another common misconception is that botulinum toxin produces permanent changes. In reality, the effects of botulinum toxin gradually fade over a period of 3 to 6 months, depending on the treated area, the patient’s metabolism, and the dose used. After this period, muscle activity gradually resumes and wrinkles reappear naturally. This temporary action allows patients to decide whether they wish to continue or adjust their treatment. If one does not like the result, it is simply enough to wait for the effect to wear off.
Reality : more and more men are choosing botulinum toxin to improve their appearance and look younger.
Botulinum toxin is often seen as an aesthetic treatment reserved for women, but this idea is increasingly outdated. In fact, the use of botulinum toxin among men is rapidly growing. Men choose botulinum toxin to reduce expression lines, soften harsh or tired features, and enhance their appearance in a competitive professional environment. Botulinum toxin is suitable for both men and women and can be personalized according to each patient’s aesthetic goals and facial characteristics.
Reality : botulinum toxin injection is painless and well tolerated by the majority of patients.
Some people hesitate to try botulinum toxin because they believe the injections are very painful. In reality, the needles used are extremely fine, and most patients feel only a slight pinch or temporary discomfort. Moreover, numbing creams can be applied before the treatment to further reduce any sensation. The procedure is quick, usually completed in less than 3 minutes, and requires no downtime.
Reality : botulinum toxin does not create physical or psychological addiction.
It is often believed that the use of botulinum toxin can cause addiction, but botulinum toxin does not create physical dependence. The desire to maintain or repeat treatments is usually related to patients’ satisfaction with the results and the improvement in their appearance. Since the effects of botulinum toxin are temporary, some patients choose to continue treatments to preserve the results, but this does not mean they are physically dependent on the product.
Reality : botulinum toxin is effective for expression lines but can be combined with other treatments for deep wrinkles.
Although botulinum toxin is particularly effective for expression lines such as forehead wrinkles or crow’s feet, it can also improve deeper wrinkles when combined with other aesthetic treatments. Hyaluronic acid, PRX-T33 peel, and medium peel are used as complementary treatments to fill deeper wrinkles. A consultation with a physician will help determine the best combination of treatments for each patient.
Deconstructing the misconceptions surrounding botulinum toxin is essential to help patients make informed decisions about their appearance and aesthetic care. In reality, botulinum toxin is a safe, effective, and versatile treatment when injected by an experienced physician. Whether to reduce signs of aging, prevent the appearance of wrinkles, or treat specific medical conditions, botulinum toxin is a suitable solution for a wide range of needs and preferences.
Article written by Dr Romano Valeria
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