BOTOX® is one of Canada’s most popular cosmetic procedures. While BOTOX® has been around for decades, we have seen a steady increase in demand over the last few years. However, with its growing popularity people are often skeptical about BOTOX®, with many people speculating and making assumptions without conducting proper research. Here are seven common myths associated with BOTOX® and the truth behind them!1. Botox is extremely painful We often associate BOTOX® with pain because of our fear of needles, especially when they are inserted into our faces. However, this is not the case! Fact: BOTOX® is virtually painless when done by a licensed injector. All you feel is a little pinch, and your Nurse Injector can add a numbing agent to minimize any unpleasant sensations. The procedure is quick and the needles used are tiny compared to needles in vaccines.2. Botox freezes your face and you can’t show emotion We see this joked about so often in media and in movies, many people believe it to be true. Although BOTOX® does limit the movement of muscles it doesn’t “freeze” your face. Fact: The main reason why people feel their face is frozen is because too much BOTOX® was injected into that particular area. While BOTOX® does relax (or “freeze”) your facial muscles, this effect is temporary and will wear off with time. That is why it is important to visit a certified BOTOX® specialist. They can accurately determine how many units you need for your anatomy and the area(s) that you want treated.3. Botox is addictive BOTOX® is a temporary procedure, with the effects wearing off within 3-6 months. Clients often return after this time to maintain the benefits of BOTOX®. This has led people to think that BOTOX® is addictive. Fact: There is no addictive agent in BOTOX®, clients are simply are happy with the results and choose to return to up-keep the results achieved by BOTOX®.4. Botox is only used for wrinkles People often think BOTOX® is used for diminishing the appearance of wrinkles, however, it can be used for other cosmetic and medical reasons. Fact: BOTOX® can be used for brow lifts and lightening the appearance of dimples on the chin. BOTOX® has also been FDA approved for treating excessive sweating (AKA hyperhidrosis), and can be used to relax the TMG muscle in the jaw.5. Botox is not safe Some people believe BOTOX® is unsafe because it is derived from botulinum toxin which is commonly associated with food poisoning. However, it is actually derived from a protein found in botulinum toxin. Fact: Although there are always associated risks with any procedure, these will be covered prior to treatment with your certified Nurse Injector. The amount injected is within a safe amount and would not cause the associated risks from physically ingesting (or eating) botulinum toxin.6. Botox is only for women We typically see women in ads for BOTOX®, however, approximately 20% of clients that receive BOTOX® are men. Facts: We all age and face the same aging concerns. Advertising typically shows women because they are the main target demographic, but that does not mean men can’t reap the benefits of BOTOX®.7. Wrinkles will become more noticeable when you stop Botox BOTOX® typically lasts for 3-6 months on average. When the effects wear off, our natural lines reappear. This has caused people to believe that BOTOX® has made their fine lines more noticeable. Fact: Every time your face moves, your muscles contract. Over time, this repetitive movement causes wrinkles. BOTOX®, on the other hand, relaxes your muscles preventing this movement.  Therefore, it is impossible for BOTOX® to worsen your wrinkles. In fact, studies have shown that if you get regular BOTOX® injections in your late 20s, it can aid in the prevention of wrinkles in the future.It is important to understand that BOTOX® is incredibly safe when done correctly and with our certified and experienced Nurse Injector, Joelle. Macleod Trail Plastic Surgery can answer any questions and guide you in what will work best for you. We offer custom treatment plans and complimentary consultations to ensure that your aesthetic goals can be achieved. Contact Joelle directly at (403) 452-7986 or email her at injector@mtps.ca.