Robin Wright’s Sprinkles of Botox: 5 Common Myths about Botox

Want to try Botox but still look natural? Got questions about Botox? Life and Style Magazine recently asked Dr. Lin to weigh in on Robin Wright’s recent candid statements about her “sprinkles of Botox”, so he decided to address some myths about one of Hollywood’s favorite anti-aging solution. Here are some Botox myths debunked.

Myth #1: Botox is unsafe and toxic to the body

False:  In general, Botox is very popular and safe procedure. There were 6.3 million Botox injections in 2013 with very few side effects. However, all procedures have a risk of complications. Patients who are pregnant, nursing or patients with neurological or musculoskeletal disease such as myasthenia gravis or ALS should not have Botox. Patients who have difficulty swallowing or breathing, difficulty raising their forehead or who have dropping eyelids should not have Botox. There is also a risk of allergy with any medication; patients with known allergies to Botox or any of its components should also not have Botox.

Myth#2: Botox always lasts 6 months to 1 year

False: The effects of Botox are temporary and vary with each person. Most patients find that Botox lasts approximately 3-4 months 

Myth #3: Botox makes your face look frozen and unnatural

False: Botox done the correct way will allow you to look natural and more relaxed. When you are angry and you attempt to furrow your brows, the action will be diminished. The goal of Botox is to relax hyperactive muscles that are causing wrinkle lines to form. By preventing the wrinkles from forming, the permanent skin etching cause by these muscle-induced wrinkle lines can be prevented.

Myth #4: Botox is only for people ages 30 and up

False:  Botox is on-label for cosmetic treatment from age 18-65

Myth #5: Botox injections are painful and I will be red for days after receiving Botox

False:  Most patients tolerate the Botox injections very well with minimal discomfort. Some patients prefer to use topical numbing creams. The redness should go down after a few hours of receiving the injection. One should not take any Advil (ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen), and aspirin, a week before an injection. These medications may thin your blood, making you more likely to bruise.

What are some of your questions about Botox? What Botox myths have you heard? Feel free to comment below!