Let’s Talk About The Pros And Cons Of Botox

Botox is probably one of the most popular non-surgical procedures, with the likes of the Kardashian-Jenners and other celebrities normalising Botox treatments to the rest of the public.

And while we hear about it often (maybe you’ve even had some yourself), we aren’t always brushed up on what Botox actually does – and what the risks can be.

For those of you who don’t know, Botox is an injectable medication made from botulinum toxin that freezes the injected muscle.

 

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It can be used to smooth wrinkles and expression lines, to carry out lip flips, and for medical instances like helping migraines.

Whether you’re looking to get rid of unwanted wrinkles or make your lips look fuller; Botox could do the trick.

As with everything though, Botox comes with both pros and cons!

We’ve done a little research, so if you’re considering Botox, or simply want to know more of the ins and outs  of it; we’ve got you covered.

Pros

• It has medical benefits

Botox can be used to help medical problems such as muscle spasms, an overactive bladder, migraines, lazy eyes, and sweating problems.

• It’s quick

When getting botox, you don’t need any anaesthesia, and it will only take a few minutes for the doctor to inject and set the Botox.

• It can be a confidence booster

A survey by MetropolMed of over 500 botox users found that 94% felt happier after treatment and 75% said they felt more confident.

 

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Cons

• Botox isn’t permanent

This means that if you wish to maintain your treatment, you’ll have to have it topped up every four to six months, depending on the area.

• There’s risks

These treatments can be risky and could affect your facial expressions.

Since Botox has the power to freeze muscles, if it’s injected incorrectly, it could prevent you from squinting or it could even leave you with a constant surprised or frowned expression – which obviously isn’t ideal.

• It’s pricey

As mentioned above, if you want to maintain your Botox, you’ll have to get it topped up; which can be expensive

The average cost of one anti-wrinkle treatment is €170, and lip treatments tend to start at €300.

In an interview with GQ Magazine, Dr Green explains that “prices for Botox vary vastly, for many reasons. The price of Botox will depend on several factors: geographic location, the experience of the injector, placement, and volume. The more experience an injector has (and the higher the cost of living in the neighbourhood you are getting injected in) will increase the price of Botox”.

 

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What if you want the results of Botox, but don’t want to go under the needle?

Botox isn’t for everyone and that okay!

Here are three natural and less invasive alternatives that you can try.

Micro needling

An alternative to Botox that can be done in clinics and even at home (if you have experience or supervision!) is micro-needling.

This treatment is minimally invasive and involves puncturing the skin with tiny needles that stimulate the production of collagen and elastin in the skin.

This can improve the appearance of sun damage, scarring, pores, lines, and wrinkles.

However, if you have Trypanophobia (fear of needles) we recommend you skip this one!

Retinol

Skincare products that are high in retinol also work as an alternative to botox.

Retinol stimulates collagen production in the skin, resulting in fewer wrinkles and it speeds up cell turnover, giving you smoother skin with reduced discolouration.

It also improves the elasticity of the skin as well as reduces inflammation.

 

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Vitamin C

Vitamin C is all the rage lately and with its antioxidant properties it’s no wonder why.

Skincare products that contain vitamin C make a natural alternative to botox as it boosts collagen production, fighting wrinkles and fine lines.

So find a good vitamin C serum and you’re on the right track!

Whether you’re investing in Botox treatments, or staying away from the needles, make sure to consider the pros and cons and do your research first.

Words by Grace Sweeney

Tags:

• Anti-wrinkle injections
• botox