Intrigued by the sound of Botox but not sure what’s really involved? Don’t worry, we’ve compiled this simple guide dispelling some of the most common Botox myths and separating fact from fiction, so you can make an informed decision about whether you think it’s right for you.

B = Botox is Botox, not filler

Although they are both administered via a needle into areas of the face, their ingredients, uses and effects couldn’t be more different. Botox is used most commonly in the upper parts of the face, including frown lines, round the eyes and forehead.

It works best on lines that are dynamic (move when your face moves). The active ingredient tells the nerve supplying your muscle to stop moving, so for a temporary period, this is what happens – resulting in a smoother, fresher and more youthful appearance.

Filler, meanwhile, lifts grooves in your face that form over time and works like mattress springs to elevate, plump and hold up lines and crevices that have appeared due to ageing and repeated facial expressions.

O = Once is good, regular is better

By continuing to have regular Botox treatments, the lines will soften and become less pronounced.

The muscles can often be re-educated to move in different ways and as your expressions change ever so slightly, so too do the depth and the prevalence of the lines that bothered you in the first place.

People having regular injections usually find that, eventually, they need to return for them less frequently as the treatment lasts longer. If you decide to stop having Botox the lines do not return more severely; they simply return to how they would be if you had not had treatment.

T = Toxin, not Toxic

Botox has an excellent safety profile and has been well researched and established as a safe and consistent product.

It is a purified protein derived from botulinum toxin. It will not give you botulism and the doses used in cosmetic treatment are a tiny fraction of what’s used for some medical causes.

O = One size doesn’t fit all

Every patient, every face and every line is unique, therefore the treatment with Botox can be adapted to meet the requirements of both your face and your preference.

The frozen look is not the only option – quite the opposite in fact. Done with the right product and by an experienced professional, Botox can be tailored to create a natural refreshed look and still allow for facial expression.

X = X marks the spot

Several small injections are used in each treatment area, and very small needles are used to minimise discomfort. The treatment is rarely painful and usually only uncomfortable for a few seconds as the needle pierces the skin. No local anaesthetic is required.

To find out more about Botox or to book a consultation, call us on 0131 225 5656, email reception@your.gp or use our booking form.