Although BOTOX® is generally safe, there are some cases where it shouldn’t be used. There are also some cases where a person who has used BOTOX® for several years builds up a resistance to it and no longer achieves the same results they once did from this skin rejuvenation option. If BOTOX® is not an option for you, there are other skin rejuvenation alternatives available at professional skin care clinics that can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines to create youthful-looking skin. Here are some cases when BOTOX® should be avoided and what treatments you can choose instead for a similarly youthful appearance.
While Pregnant Or Breastfeeding
During pregnancy, you need to be extra careful about what you put into your body since your growing baby is in a critical phase of development. Just as it is advised to avoid alcohol, smoking, too much coffee, certain deli meats, and sushi, BOTOX® is on the list of substances that are not recommended during pregnancy. Although the toxin used in BOTOX® is considered safe under many circumstances, doctors do not want to risk the toxin spreading and affecting the child. While there aren’t many studies done on the effects of BOTOX® on pregnancy (for ethical purposes), it is always better to take extra precautions when it comes to the safety of your child.
If You Are Allergic
While allergic reactions to BOTOX® are not common, they are possible. Before you get BOTOX®, your practitioner will do a skin test on your forearm by administering a very small amount of the treatment. This test is the same as most allergy tests and will determine if you are eligible for BOTOX® or not.
If You Have Preexisting Muscular Weakness
Anyone with multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis, myopathy, or other neuromuscular disorders should not receive BOTOX® for cosmetic purposes. BOTOX® can aggravate the symptoms of neuromuscular disorders and poor reactions to this treatment can be risky. Similarly, people with asthma or other respiratory problems may want to speak with their doctor before receiving BOTOX®.
JUVÉDERM®
Whereas BOTOX® immobilizes the muscles to smooth the appearance of wrinkles and prevent new wrinkles from forming, JUVÉDERM® plumps the skin. This plumping effect reduces the appearance of wrinkles because the skin fills out and sags less. JUVÉDERM® achieves this full, smooth, and taught appearance of the skin by boosting your natural supply of hyaluronic acid.
Sculptra™
This form of injectable works to stimulate the body’s natural collagen production. Collagen is the body’s natural way of providing structure and replacing dead skin cells. Because of this, increased collagen levels help to create firm, full skin while the topmost layer of dead skin is replaced with new cells. Sculptra™ utilizes these two components together to reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
Chemical Peels
Typically chemical peels are used to revitalize dry, dull skin, address acne, and help to reduce acne scarring and sun damage, but chemical peels can also be used to reduce the appearance of fine lines. Because chemical peels remove old skin, the new replacement layer of skin that develops is smoother and has fewer visible wrinkles and fine lines. Chemical peels are known for their ability to smooth skin texture, and that includes wrinkles.
Although BOTOX® can create great anti-aging results for some people, that doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. There are many forms of anti-aging and skin rejuvenation treatments that can be used to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. If you are not eligible for BOTOX®, or if you are interested in trying a different form of skin rejuvenation, Glo Skin and Medspa can help you find a treatment that is right for you. Our staff of skin care specialists will examine your skin and consult with you to determine what skin rejuvenation treatment is best for you. To schedule an appointment with Glo Skin and Medspa in Edmonton, call 1-780-481-9772 or fill out the online contact form.
Q: Are there other skin rejuvenation options available?
A: If you are interested in the reduction of the appearance of fine lines, Glo Skin and Medspa offers Venus Viva™ Skin Resurfacing and Morpheus8™, two advanced forms of skin rejuvenation. Glo Skin and Medspa also offers a variety of services to help your skin feel and look its best.
Q: Is BOTOX® only used for cosmetic purposes?
A: Although BOTOX® offers cosmetic benefits and has become popular for its ability to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, BOTOX® also has medical uses. BOTOX® is used to address excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), and it has also been used to address neck spasms, migraines, lazy eye, and more.
Q: Are chemical peels painful?
A: No, the procedure isn’t painful. However, you may experience some tingling and discomfort for a few minutes when the solution is first applied. These sensations will dissipate by the time you leave the clinic. We do our best throughout the treatment to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible.
