Botox and safety

Botox and other cosmetic fillers are increasingly popular treatments for men and women, but inconsistent regulations mean many people are putting themselves at risk with back alley practitioners.

Don’t trust just anyone with something as important as your appearance – if you’re considering Botox or other cosmetic fillers, a medical practitioner is the only way to go.

Botox – the basics

Botox is a drug that works by blocking signals from the nerves to the muscles. Small, diluted amounts of botulinum toxin are injected directly into the muscle so they can no longer contract, causing the wrinkles to relax and soften.

The procedure works best on wrinkles caused by movement; laughter lines, furrows on the brow, crow’s feet around the eyes and frown lines between the eyebrows all respond well to treatment.

There’s medical uses too; Botox injections can be used to treat everything from chronic migraines to excessive sweating, crossed eyes and even an overactive bladder.

It’s also important to understand what Botox can’t do. Injections won’t improve the volume of the face or soften wrinkles caused by poor collagen. It can’t reverse sun damage and won’t improve the appearance of your skin.

As a treatment, it works best when administered regularly – you should expect the positive effects to last between three and six months before lines and wrinkles begin to gradually reappear as muscle action returns.

Safety first

Treatment itself is quick and painless – it takes less than ten minutes and is only as painful as the slight prick of a very fine needle on the skin. 

Though the procedure is fast and relatively painless, having Botox is not like getting a manicure or a facial; Botox injections should be done by a certified medical professional in a hygienic medical practice or private clinic. 

An experienced medical practitioner can take the time to understand your medical history and set realistic expectations about the benefits of Botox and highlight any concerns. When you book into YourGP you’ll be invited for a complementary consultation to discuss treatment and the look you want to achieve.  

Looking for a trusted practitioner for Botox in Scotland? For a limited time YourGP is offering 15% off anti-wrinkle treatments booked in March and April.  

To take advantage of our special offer use our online booking form, or call us on and quote ‘BTX16’ at the time of booking.