Did you know that skin aging starts from the age of 25 and can bring aesthetic consequences that may negatively impact self-esteem? Despite many myths surrounding botulinum toxin, statistics help clarify the facts. According to multiple clinical studies and patient surveys, botulinum toxin treatments have satisfaction rates consistently above 90%, largely due to their safety profile and predictable results when administered by trained professionals. In addition, data from aesthetic medicine associations indicate that millions of procedures are performed worldwide each year with a very low rate of serious complications, reinforcing that many common fears—such as permanent facial paralysis or severe health risks—are not supported by scientific evidence when the treatment is properly indicated and applied.
Many people experience psychological and consequently social problems associated with the feeling of insecurity due to having the appearance of aged skin.
The area that causes the most discomfort is usually the face, which is the most visible. There are basically two components of aging.
Intrinsic Component
The intrinsic or chronological component is natural and linked to genetics. Regardless of our actions, the skin, like other tissues, will age. Over the years, there will be a decrease in the production of collagen and elastin, which provide firmness and tone to the skin.
As a result, the skin becomes thinner and flaccid. Along with the contraction of facial muscles, expression lines and wrinkles appear, which tend to become deeper over time.
Extrinsic Component
The extrinsic component is related to the action of multiple environmental factors. The most well-known of these is photoaging, which results from chronic exposure to UV radiation. Other factors include:
In these cases, there is an increase in oxidative processes that break down collagen fibers.
- Smoking
- Diet, especially high sugar consumption and alcohol intake
- Stress, among others.
The skin loses its support, becoming rougher, thicker, and showing pronounced spots and wrinkles.
According to the Brazilian Society of Dermatology, we receive 80% of all solar radiation in our lifetime by the age of 18, and the consequences of this will be noticed years later.
Among the mentioned causes, it is crucial that environmental factors be controlled through the use of sunscreen and a healthy lifestyle.
There are numerous effective dermatological treatments to treat and prevent skin aging. These include fractional CO2 laser, Lip, peels, Botox, and fillers. We will discuss these treatments at other opportunities.
In this article, we will talk about myths and truths regarding botulinum toxin. Check it out!
1 – Botulinum toxin leaves the face paralyzed
Myth. The effect of botulinum toxin injection is dose-dependent. The goal is to correct excessive muscle contraction that causes wrinkles. This significantly reduces muscle contraction, improving wrinkles naturally. See below for the mechanism of action of botulinum toxin:
2 – Botox requires multiple sessions
Myth. The procedure is done in a single step. The patient returns for a reassessment 15 days later, and generally, the effect lasts around 4 to 6 months, depending on individual characteristics. The patient can repeat it within this period.
3 – The application of botulinum toxin is comfortable
True. The procedure is done with a micro-needle, and the patient can use an anesthetic cream before the session.
4 – There is no minimum age to apply botulinum toxin
True. When wrinkles start to appear, which is very individual, the patient should consult a doctor for an evaluation. The earlier treatment begins in a trusted dermatology clinic, the better the results and the lower the chance of not being able to reverse a mark.
5 – Getting Botox is dangerous
Myth. When the procedure is performed by an experienced doctor with quality products, it becomes an extremely safe procedure.
6 – The main indication for botulinum toxin is wrinkles on the forehead and around the eyes
True. These are the main indications for the procedure. However, there are other indications, such as treating hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), among others.
7 – Cosmetic creams can replace botulinum toxin
Myth. Since the product works by concentrating directly on the muscles that cause the wrinkle, no cream can achieve this type of result.
Contact:
Clínica de Pele is a traditional and specialized dermatological clinic in Rio de Janeiro for over 60 years, since 1969.
Dr. Szerman has over 20 years of experience and teaches other doctors.
