‘It’s a poison, it scares me’ is a phrase I’ve heard time and time again from clients enquiring about non-surgical facelifts. ‘Is Botulinum Toxin safe for a facial aesthetics treatment?’ is a question on the minds of many people reaching midlife or a significant milestone. They want to feel revitalised and look ‘fresh’ yet maintain their natural facial features.
The answer to this ‘safety’ question is quite simple. ‘Yes, Botulinum Toxin is safe’ for any type of antiwrinkle facial treatment.
What is Botulinum Toxin?
Way back in 1817, Justinus Kerner, a German poet, described the toxin’s capacity to interrupt nerve conduction in the same way an electrical conductor is disrupted by rust. He had a way with words!
The substance is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum and was initially used to treat medical patients with crossed eyes!
While Botulinum Toxin can be poisonous, if administered by a trained professional, the procedure is completely safe because the dosage is small and great care is taken.
What is Botulinum Toxin used for?
Botulinum Toxin has been used in the National Health Service (NHS) since 1978. The medical-grade injections must only be prescribed by a qualified medical practitioner and in a face-to-face setting. It is now widely used across the medical industry to treat, for example, bladder instability and oesophageal dysfunction.
As a product, the toxin was licensed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the cosmetics industry in 1992.
How does Botulinum Toxin work?
Botulinum Toxin is injected into the skin using very small needles. The procedure is quick and painless, and the toxin works by targeting and relaxing specific facial muscles. The effect is to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines for the upper face.
When can you not have Botulinum Toxin?
There are certain circumstances when an antiwrinkle treatment using Botulinum Toxin injections is not recommended. If you are pregnant, feel poorly, have a skin infection or neuromuscular ailment, or taking existing medicines that may have contraindications to Botulinum Toxin.
If you are unsure, it is always best to seek advice from a medical professional.
What to do if you are considering an antiwrinkle treatment?
The first step is to book a consultation with a qualified professional. Meeting a trained medical practitioner is an opportunity to have your questions answered and discuss treatment options in a safe and friendly environment.
Understanding why you want to invest in a facial aesthetics procedure and the achievable outcomes before you book the treatment is essential. Other options such as Profhilo, Teoxane and Plexr treatments may also achieve your desired results.
Speaking to someone in person, either face to face or over an online conference call will allow them to study your face and recommend the most effective treatment options.
Is Botulinum Toxin safe for a facial aesthetics treatment?
In the right hands, Botulinum Toxin is safe, effective and the antiwrinkle treatments using the substance are affordable alternative to plastic surgery.
To book a free consultation at Dr Camilla Hill’s clinic, please call 01527 280820 or email an enquiry here.
