The popularity of botox as a procedure cannot be denied. Recent research by Market Study Report revealed that the Botox market will register a 13.3% CAGR in terms of revenue, the global market size will hit US$8500 million by 2024 while the US market will reach $4550 million in 2019. Despite its popularity, there have been concerns about its safety.
Fresh concerns about the safety of botox as a procedure has somehow stopped some people from undergoing botox injections. Some celebrities have used this procedure to prevent aging and lessen the appearance of wrinkles. Some people will try to avoid it because of its toxicity, but the fact is that Botox Injections are safe and very effective.
What is Botox?
Botox is the trade name for Botulinum Toxin Type A. It was first approved by the FDA for treating medical ailments like muscle spasms, excessive underarm sweating, and eyelid tics. In 2002, it was approved for cosmetic use for minimizing facial wrinkles, specifically the vertical lines between the eyebrows. Before its approval, botox was used off-label for cosmetic purposes prior to this.
Botox includes the ingredients of Clostridium botulinum type A neurotoxin complex, albumin human, and sodium chloride. It undergoes a fermentation process, which explains the stunning power of each ingredient. It is recommended that you consult your doctor to ensure that you won’t have allergic reactions with the ingredients.
Question of Safety
Going back to the question “Is Botox safe?” The good news is that botox has a remarkably safe history. In fact, only 36 cases of adverse effects related to cosmetic use were reported to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) between 1989 and 2003. Thirteen of these cases was associated with underlying conditions than with the drug itself.
Although the toxin is life-threatening, it is only injected in small, targeted doses. The effects may vary according to the type and exposure. In fact, side effects are more common in the therapeutic use than in the cosmetic. If there are adverse effects, it may be due to the underlying condition or because higher doses are required to treat the condition.
Researchers consider botox to be relatively safe compared to others more invasive cosmetic procedures. Although risks do occur, only a mere 1% of the patients experience an issue when performed by a board-certified dermatologist.
Preparing for Injection
How do you prepare for botox is crucial in ensuring a safe procedure? If you are taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, or high doses of Vitamin E, you should stop taking them a week prior to your consultation. If not, you are at risk of bleeding and/or bruising. You should also avoid drinking one week before and after your injection.
As a general recomendation, although Botox stays in the injected are, make sure not to rub or massage the treated areas as this may cause the toxins to migrate.
Choosing the right clinic
In order for botox to be safe, you should make sure to choose the right clinic for the injection. Limit your search to board-certified dermatologists and plastic surgeons—You can check their websites and see if their work matches with your desired procedure. Looking for a botox injection works the same way with getting a tattoo; you want check their portfolio first before having them inject botox on you.
Check out the before and after photos or see the patient personally. The important thing when looking for a dermatologist is that you should be comfortable with the doctor. Find a dermatologist who will listen to your concerns and desires. Your doctor should collaborate with you in achieving your goals and not dictate them. Here is a checklist of the things you need to ask your doctor:
- What are their credentials and experience?
- Research the doctor’s previous work
- Check online reviews
- Meet them personally
- Does their philosophy align with your goals?
Our team of experts at NeoSkin Center can help you make an informed decision. Get in touch with us today.
