I perform thousands of BOTOX injections each year, so I would like to clear up one of the most common questions I get: “Is BOTOX dangerous?”

I get asked this all the time, mostly from first-timers who are concerned about the safety of injecting this toxin into their muscles.

At first, it would seem logical that injecting a toxin would cause harm. However, in today’s beauty blog, I’m going to dispel this worry and present  facts about the safety of BOTOX.

What is BOTOX Made From?

@ Canva

BOTOX is made from a purified form of the same toxin that causes botulism poisoning (when ingested in food). This toxin is from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, and it is most commonly found in improperly prepared cans or jars of food.

However, when this toxin is injected into the muscle tissue, it remains contained there and temporarily prevents the muscle from moving. Over time, the body will naturally clear it out, which usually takes about 3-4 months.

Check out my previous articles on how long it takes for BOTOX to start working and how many units are recommended for each facial area.

What is BOTOX Used For?

In its purified form that has been approved by the FDA for injection into muscles, this toxin is called “onabotulinum toxinA.” It is injected into facial muscles to prevent muscle movement (an anti-wrinkle treatment).

The other use of this toxin is for medical purposes to treat migraine headaches, overactive bladder, TMJ of the jaw, and excessive sweating, to name a few.

Is BOTOX Safe?

Just as with any prescription medication, there is the potential for side effects. Please ask me about the risks of getting BOTOX injections. The vast majority of patients across the globe who experience serious side effects are very small when compared to the total number of injections administered.

Here are some results from BOTOX studies on safety:

@ Canva – model

• In the 14 years between 1989 and 2003, only 36 adverse events were reported to the FDA for BOTOX (cosmetic use). Healthline reports that 13 of those cases likely occurred because patients had preexisting conditions.
• Due to the small doses injected for cosmetic use, aesthetic patients are less likely to experience negative side effects versus those who get larger amounts of BOTOX for medical purposes.
• Only an experienced, licensed medical provider should perform your BOTOX injections. Using an inexperienced provider can result in serious health problems.

Where is BOTOX Injected?

For anti-aging purposes, I use BOTOX in facial muscles to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and creases. The most common areas for injection include crow’s feet around the corners of the eyes, in the forehead, and between the eyes (“elevens”).

Get BOTOX in San Diego – Beatitude Aesthetic Medicine

I hope that this article has helped to answer the question “Is BOTOX dangerous?” Now that you know how safe it is, are you ready to smooth away your wrinkles with BOTOX?

I am an Allergan Platinum Injector, which means that I am in the top 5% of injectors in the country (based on how many injections I do each year).

Get in touch with me, Dr. Aeria Chang, for your consultation and treatment. My office is located in Mission Valley in San Diego County.

Call today at (619) 280-1609 to book your appointment. Ask about our ongoing special for first-time clients!

*BOTOX and BOTOX Cosmetic are registered trademarks of Allergan, Inc.