BOTOX® Safety: How to Avoid Botulism-Like Disease from Cosmetic Injections.
BOTOX® is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world and one of the biggest brands in the history of medicine, but did you know that BOTOX and other wrinkle relaxers like Dysport are derived from a substance called botulinum toxin, which can is it extremely dangerous if not done right? Unfortunately, some people in Tennessee learned this the hard way after using unapproved products.
Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) investigates the source of the product and the provider who dispensed it and has warned the public of the dangers of buying or using unlicensed or counterfeit cosmetic products. Remember, BOTOX® and similar injectables are prescription drugs and should only be administered by licensed professionals in an appropriate setting.
How to stay safe from fake BOTOX®.
While the cases in Tennessee are rare and extreme, they are not without precedent. In the past 22 years since BOTOX® Cosmetic was approved in the US, there have been a number of unethical companies peddling BOTOX® alternatives to spas across the country.
Skin by Lovely has offered these less expensive, unapproved alternatives dozens of times over the years. The companies that sell and buy these products put profit over people and profit over patient safety. The price of BOTOX® and other FDA-approved injectables has increased in recent years, along with the doubling of the number of medical aesthetic practices in the United States by 2020. This has created even more competition, forcing many new practices to compete on price , making these unsanctioned alternatives more attractive. At Skin by Lovely, we believe that an educated patient is an empowered patient. The purpose of this article is to emphasize the importance of information and vigilance when it comes to cosmetic injections.
Here are some Botox safety tips to help ensure you get the results you want without putting your health at risk.
Do your research.
Before making an appointment for BOTOX® or any other cosmetic procedure, be sure to check the credentials and reputation of the provider. Make sure you have a good understanding of your provider’s experience and training in cosmetic injections. Ask for referrals from friends or family who have had positive experiences or read online reviews from trusted sources.
BOTOX® is one of the brand names for a specific type of botulinum toxin approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cosmetic and medical use. There are other FDA-approved botulinum toxin brands, such as Dysport® and Jeuveau®, but they are not interchangeable with BOTOX®. Beware of any product that claims to be BOTOX® but comes in a different package, label or dosage. Also, avoid any product offered at a very low price as it may be fake.
Before you agree to any injection, ask your provider to show you the product and explain how it works, what the benefits and risks are, and what the expected results and side effects are. You should also ask how the product is stored, handled and prepared and whether it was obtained from a legitimate source. If your provider is unwilling or unable to answer your questions, or if you feel pressured or rushed, leave and find another provider.
If you experience any side effects or complications after receiving BOTOX® or any other cosmetic injection, seek medical attention immediately. You should also report the incident to FDA’s MedWatch program, which monitors the safety and quality of medicines and medical devices. Your report can help identify and prevent further harm from counterfeit or unsafe products. Skin by Lovely is committed to providing the highest level of care and follow-up to its clients and we will always be available to help if you have any problems or questions after your treatment.
BOTOX® is a safe and effective way to improve your appearance and boost your confidence, but only if you get it from a qualified and trusted provider who uses an approved and genuine product. At Skin by Lovely, we’re proud to be an Allergan Top 10 partner for over a decade, ensuring you receive safe and effective treatments every time. Your health and safety come first!
By following these tips, you can protect yourself from the potential dangers of counterfeit or contaminated products. Skin by Lovely will always put your health and happiness first and will never risk your well-being for profit.
