7 Most Common Botox Myths Debunked

If you’ve noticed lines or wrinkles in places they weren’t before, then you’ve probably considered Botox. Botox is one of the leading cosmetic dermatology procedures in treating creases and wrinkles. The treatments are minimally invasive and overall safe, simple, and effective. If you’re thinking about getting Botox, maybe you’ve already done some research to see if it’s the right fit for you. However, one thing you’ll have to be mindful of is the variety of Botox facts and myths floating around on the Internet.

Botox Facts and Myths

Myth #1: Botox is Toxic

The rumor that Botox can be toxic isn’t true. After being approved in 2002 by the FDA as a treatment for frown lines between the forehead, Botox has been proven to be relatively safe. However, there’s a reason people may assume that it’s not safe.

Botox Facts: The Injection is Made from a Toxin

Botox is made with a toxin named botulinum that could cause life-threatening food poisoning. However, the Botox injection uses a very small dose, making botulinum non-toxic.

If you decide to undergo a Botox procedure, it’s important to go to a licensed professional, such as the providers at BHSkin Dermatology. Otherwise, you do risk the injection having adverse side-effects. A board-certified surgeon or dermatologist is the only professional that should provide Botox injections. We understand that there are FDA standards when it comes to the injection dosage. Also, we can tell you if Botox is not for you based on any pre-existing conditions you may have had.

Here are 2 More Botox Facts

In 2016, there were over 4.5 million procedures using Botox or an almost identical medication to fight lines and wrinkles. That’s a lot of Botox in one year! A 2005 study also reported that most adverse side-effects occurred with therapeutic use, not cosmetic use.

Myth #2: Botox Causes Stress on Muscles

Botox can create youthful-looking skin because it blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles. As a result, Botox-injected muscles do not contract. With no contraction of muscles, wrinkles will then relax and soften to give skin a smoother, firmer look.

Botox Facts: No Contractions Equals No Stress

Botox does not cause stress on muscles, as it is preventing muscles from contracting in the first place. Consider instead that muscles after Botox are less stressed and more relaxed due to the blockage of signals.

Myth #3: Botox is Addictive

If you’ve done enough research, then you’ve probably run into an article or two deeming Botox addictive. Tabloids, both online and on shelves, spice up headlines with false information to get you to read them, giving them more revenue. With Botox being a household name, especially when concerning celebrities, these articles are willing to reach for something they think may concern you. That doesn’t mean they print the truth, unfortunately.

Botox Facts: There are NO Addictive Properties

The truth is, chemical addictive properties have not been found in Botox. The effects of Botox wear off anywhere between three to six months, so some patients will go back for another administration to maintain their fight against the appearance of wrinkles. However, this is all up to the patient. If you’re thinking about getting another round of Botox in the next few months, then you will be happy to know that by no means is Botox addictive.

Myth #4: Only Women get Botox

The idea of only women being the ones to get Botox is another large misconception. It is perfectly okay for men to get Botox as well, whether it be for cosmetic purposes, or something else.

Botox Facts: It’s Not Just For Wrinkles (or Women)

Although Botox is normal for men, it is not without stigma. And the only way to decrease stigma is to challenge them. In 2015, men accounted for almost 10 percent of the total number of cosmetic surgical procedures. This is triple the number reported in 1997. Botox may also be an option for people dealing with excessive perspiration, eye spasms, migraines, and bladder spasms. It’s a beneficial procedure for men and women alike.

Myth #5: Botox and Fillers are the Same

There is a drifting belief that Botox and fillers are the same things. However, they are quite different.

Botox Facts: Botox and Fillers Affect Different Areas

Botox works for the area of the eyes and up, while fillers work for the areas below the eyes. Fillers ‘fill’ or restore volume to an area of the face that lacks it, such as the cheeks or lips. The lips, in particular, are a favorite place for many patients to get fillers. Botox, on the other hand, is mostly done near the forehead and eyes.

Myth #6: Botox Will Cause Your Face to Freeze

Another huge myth surrounding Botox is the idea that once you get the injection, your face won’t have free movement again. There have been many movies portraying this misconception, and it can be easy to believe this tall-tale if you don’t have experience with Botox at all.

Botox Facts: Your Face Should Have Free Movement

When performed properly, Botox should in no way inhibit your facial expressions. However, too much Botox in one treatment can make facial movements difficult for some. A licensed professional can work with you to avoid this.

Myth #7: The Procedure Hurts

There’s a common belief that Botox can be an extremely painful procedure, but it’s not. The thought of multiple needles going into various points of your face can be a little intimidating, but the procedure is not as painful as it sounds.

Botox Facts: It Feels More Like a Pinch

Most patients say Botox is a quick procedure that feels like a pinch. The actual process of injection takes about 10 minutes. At BHSkin Dermatology, we will talk about treatment goals with you, then perform a facial analysis to determine the appropriate areas to administer Botox to. During the Botox procedure, ice is commonly used to numb treatment areas. If you’re worried about any discomfort, a topical numbing cream can be applied to treatment areas to make the whole process more comfortable for you.

Myths Debunked

Botox has steadily gained momentum as being a cosmetic procedure that fights wrinkles and fine lines to leave skin looking refreshed and firm. However, the information you find on the Internet may cause second thoughts.

Many misconceptions became so widespread because of many people not speaking to a licensed professional directly or not seeking out reputable websites. This is why we’ve decided to clear the myths about Botox and set the record straight for anyone interested in the procedure but afraid of what they’ve heard.

Schedule a Consultation in LA to Learn More

Do not let any false claims deter you from looking into a safe, simple, and effective cosmetic procedure that could give you a physical and emotional boost. If you still have questions about Botox or want to schedule your appointment, then we’re ready to help. At BHSkin Dermatology, we work with our patients to find the right treatment for their needs. Give us a call at 310.205.3555 or 818.914.7546. You can also email us or click on the chatbox below. The decision to look and feel your best is in your hands! We look forward to seeing you at our Glendale or Encino office.

Author: Don Mehrabi

Don Mehrabi, MD, FAAD, is LA’s leading board-certified dermatologist who treats patients, builds the BHSkin clinics, and raises three kids. This blog builds on medical studies combined with Dr. Mehrabi's first-hand experiences from practicing in Encino-Tarzana, Glendale, and online