In an attempt to slow or even reverse some of the signs of aging, many middle-aged and older women (and men) turn to injectables like Botox to smooth wrinkles or frown lines. But with the price tag for these procedures, which may need to be repeated many times, often running around $500 per dose some people are turning to DIY Botox treatments. And according to a recent study, unregulated Botox or dermal filler kit use in on the rise despite warnings of the health risks. Individuals continue to inject themselves using YouTube tutorials and injection maps from the internet, but the risk of counterfeit products or damaging facial muscles should have people concerned.
The continued popularity of Botox parties in which someone comes to your home to give guests Botox injections while they sip wine is also a worry. Plastic surgeons warn that only a board-certified plastic surgeon should be performing the procedures because they understand the underlying blood vessels, nerves and muscles of the face and body. At the very least, the injections should be performed by a trained medical practitioner such as a nurse with a doctor, who has hospital privileges, on-site. Drinking alcohol during or shortly after getting Botox also isn’t advisable because it may interfere with blood clotting and lead to bruising or bleeding problems.
It is also advised to request several before and after pictures before getting any cosmetic procedure and ask plenty of questions, including where the products being injected are sourced from; counterfeit or silicone injectables from China are common among shady operations. If the price seems too cheap or the promised results too good to be true, it’s a red flag that should be heeded. Always verify that the product is FDA approved by checking the updated lists on approved products and uses here.
Botox, or botulinum toxin type A which is derived from the bacteria that causes botulism, is a neurotoxin that blocks the transmission of impulses, paralyzing the muscle and as a result, smoothing out expression lines. Botox injections generally have an effect that lasts between two and four months. And it may take 24 to 48 hours before the patient sees the full result of the treatment.
That all said, if Botox or a filler, administered correctly gives the individual greater self-confidence or makes them happier when they don’t see angry-looking frown lines in the mirror, then so much the better. Just be sure to use a trusted health practitioner and stay away from any bargain-basement deals. Learn more about filling wrinkles safely by following this link the U.S. FDA website consumer updates page.
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