Botulinum Toxin: 8 Myths Debunked

Dr. Paolo Salentina, one of the leading experts in botulinum toxin administration, addresses several misconceptions about the effects of this substance, helping us establish parameters for its safe and effective use.

1. Botulinum toxin is toxic and can cause botulism: FALSE

Botulism is a food-borne illness (not a risk associated with aesthetic treatment). The botulinum toxin used for facial treatments has a localized action in treated areas, and toxic effects would require dozens more vials than the single vial used in aesthetic medicine. This demonstrates its absolute safety profile, higher than many other pharmaceutical products.

2. Botulinum toxin hasn't been sufficiently tested: FALSE

Like all pharmaceuticals, botulinum toxin has undergone rigorous clinical trials, with thousands of published articles and research papers in international scientific literature confirming it as one of the most predictable and safe medications. It is also used in other medical specialties at higher doses than in aesthetics, including pediatric applications.

3. Botulinum toxin paralyzes all muscles: FALSE

Botulinum toxin is a protein injected precisely into muscles in minute doses using an ultra-fine needle, temporarily reducing specific muscle contractions. An experienced physician can administer this treatment selectively and moderately.

4. I can't know what's being injected: FALSE

Currently, only three legal products are marketed by qualified medical companies: Allergan's Vistabex, Galderma's Azzalure, and Merz's Bocouture. Be wary of low-cost treatments, especially those priced below material costs. Treatment with products other than these three is risky. Only trust qualified physicians for botulinum toxin administration and verify the product used. Reputable physicians will always provide consent forms including the product's batch number.

5. Continued botulinum toxin use will eventually worsen appearance: FALSE

On the contrary, botulinum toxin has proven preventive benefits. Scientific evidence shows patients receiving appropriate treatment (approximately three times annually) start from an improved aesthetic baseline each time. When properly administered, it prevents muscles from exercising their negative effects on facial expression and wrinkle formation.

6. Botulinum toxin causes excessive swelling: FALSE

The overly 'puffy' appearance sometimes observed results from incorrect use of dermal fillers, not botulinum toxin protein.

7. Botulinum toxin is permanent: FALSE

Effects are always temporary, lasting an average of 4-6 months.

8. The effect is unnatural and fake: IT DEPENDS

Botulinum toxin effects are fully adjustable. As with other aesthetic treatments, natural-looking results depend on the physician's expertise and judgment rather than the product itself. It's crucial for physicians to know when to decline treatment: avoiding too-frequent sessions and maintaining positive expressions, even if it means keeping some wrinkles. When properly administered, the goal isn't to eliminate all wrinkles but to achieve a refreshed, relaxed appearance while reducing signs of fatigue.