Botox is probably the most popular type of anti-aging treatment on the planet. It has been extensively researched and written about. Unfortunately, some of those writings are completely untrue and are based on personal experiences and hearsay, rather than actual science, facts and knowledge. So what is the truth about Botox?

Basically, the product is used on men and women alike in order to smooth some of the signs of aging, most notably frown lines. These tend to appear in between the eyebrows as people age. However, the product can also be used on other wrinkles, albeit not all of them.

It is believed that around one in four people would have Botox if they could afford it, which goes to show just how popular the treatment actually is. This is also due to the fact that it is a minimally invasive procedure that doesn’t require a long recovery time. It is known as the ‘lunchtime facelift’ for good reason, after all.

So What Is Botox?

When you start to look for Botox treatments, you are essentially looking for a clinic that is licensed to inject you with onabotulinumtoxinA.

Legally, it is a product designed to treat acute underarm sweating, control muscle spasms, manage migraines and provide minor facial improvement. It is the latter that people are most interested in, and what the treatment is most often used for.

Most of the time, the product is used to treat glabellar lines. These are the lines on the forehead and most people feel these lines make them look old, tired and angry. While beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, the truth is that people often feel very anxious about their fine lines, meaning it has a tremendous negative effect on their self-confidence as well.

Should You Get Botox?

Ultimately, only you and your clinician can decide whether or not Botox is suitable for you. If you feel that you need to have the fine lines on your face smoothed out, for whatever reason, then you may be a good candidate. However, some people should not have Botox, even if they have many fine lines. These people include:

  • Those with allergies to Botox or any of its other ingredients.
  • Those who currently have a skin infection in the area where the product would be injected.
  • Those who suffer from diseases or other conditions that affect their muscles or nerves.
  • Those with breathing problems, including asthma.
  • Those with difficulties swallowing.
  • Those who have blood thinning problems.

Those who are thinking about having more major cosmetic surgery, and those who have recently had surgery, should also avoid Botox if they can. Similarly, those who have facial areas of weakness, particularly around the eyes, should also think twice before agreeing to have Botox injected.

Finally, no studies have been done on the effect of Botox on unborn babies. Hence, if you are pregnant, nursing or trying to conceive, it is best to avoid it.