Botox is one of the fastest growing aesthetic treatments because of its wrinkle-reducing effects. "Botox works by temporarily relaxing the targeted facial muscles, which softens the look of wrinkles," says Debra Thomas, a certified aesthetic nurse provider at The Skin Center, which has six medical spas across the Pittsburgh region. The company's newest state-of-the-art clinic just opened in Murrysville, PA, last month. "The number-one question I get from first-time Botox clients is: Will my face look frozen? Think about it this way: Every bottle of Botox is the same—it's a regulated drug. So the critical factor in getting natural-looking results is all about the provider who is injecting the Botox."
If you're considering Botox, here are the safety measures Thomas recommends:
- Experience matters. Go to a medical spa that has an established reputation. Always ask questions like: How long has the provider been doing Botox? How many patients has he or she treated?
- Beware of counterfeit Botox. On treatment day, before you start, ask your provider to show you the bottle of Botox first. "It's scary to think that there is counterfeit Botox out there, but there is," says Thomas. "If you see Botox advertised at a ridiculously cheap price, double check you are getting the real thing first."
- Don't get it at a Botox party. Just because Botox has become popular doesn't mean one should get it anywhere else than in a medically supervised, safe, and clean clinic.
- Do ask for emergency contact information. A reputable provider will give you instructions on what to do if you have any questions or concerns outside of business hours.