5 Myths About BOTOX® Debunked

At this point, everyone knows (or at least thinks they know) about BOTOX®, In the Newtown Square, Bryn Mawr, and Main Line area, the Cirillo Cosmetic Dermatology Spa team regularly hears from women and men interested in finally trying the popular non-surgical injectable cosmetic treatment—and who think they already know all there is to know about the wrinkle-relaxing injectable.

Unfortunately, there are many myths associated with the neuromodulator—which is to be expected on some level. There has been increased interest in cosmetically improving the face, neck, and eye areas due to the amount of time people are spending in virtual meetings these days. With increased interest comes increased sharing of information: true, dubious, and somewhere in between. Experts predict that cosmetic treatments will continue to  rise in  2023, as social media encourages a youthful appearance and virtual work continues.

So what really is BOTOX®? It contains a diluted form of botulinum toxin, which is derived from a bacterium known as Clostridium botulinum. It has eight different strains, but only serotypes A and B are used for cosmetic or medical purposes. Botulinum toxin was originally used as a treatment for crossed eyes (strabismus) during the 1970s, but clinicians soon realized that BOTOX® smoothed unwanted wrinkles between the eyebrows, around the eyes, and on the forehead. 

While facial lines can add character to one’s face, they can also create a tired or angry appearance that can be significantly improved with BOTOX®. Due to information overload, it can  be difficult to understand what BOTOX® can and cannot treat.  See below for five of the most common misconceptions about BOTOX®. 

Myth #1: BOTOX® and Fillers Do the Same Thing

BOTOX® and fillers are both injectables that soften wrinkles. Beyond that, there aren’t many similarities between them. Fillers work by physically adding volume beneath the skin to reduce the depth of static lines. BOTOX® disrupts messages between nerves and muscles to prevent the contractions that cause wrinkles to develop. 

Myth #2: BOTOX® Is Addictive 

Some patients are worried that once they start having injections, they won’t be able to stop. BOTOX® does not contain any addictive ingredients. Patients can stop having injections at any time, but most continue with treatments to maintain a more youthful appearance.  

Myth #3: BOTOX® Is Painful

Everyone’s tolerance for pain is different and certain areas of the face are more sensitive than other areas. BOTOX® injections aren’t typically known to be painful. A very small needle is used, and the mild discomfort experienced is brief. Some  describe it as  a slight pinching or pinprick sensation. 

Myth #4: BOTOX® is Only Meant for Older Patients

You don’t need to wait until you’re older and deeper wrinkles have become etched in before you start using BOTOX®. One of the benefits of this injectable is that by relaxing facial muscles, it can  prevent existing wrinkles from getting worse or new ones from forming. In fact, there’s currently a “pre-juvenation” trend of younger patients who are using neuromodulators for preventative reasons. It’s believed that patients are now starting BOTOX® a decade earlier than their parents. 

Myth #5: BOTOX® Makes Your Face Look Frozen 

One of the fears some patients have is that their face is going to look too emotionless or “weird” after having BOTOX®. The goal is to achieve subtle, virtually undetectable results. An experienced injector knows how many units to use to give your face a softened and more rested look without causing you to appear frozen. 

Get more information on BOTOX® from the team at Cirillo Cosmetic Dermatology Spa. Call 610.525.5029 or send a message online to schedule a consultation if you would like to find out more about the benefits of wrinkle injections.