“Botox is a drug made from a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It’s the same toxin that causes a life-threatening type of food poisoning called botulism. Doctors use it in small doses to treat health problems, including. Temporary smoothing of facial wrinkles and improving your appearance.” – medlineplus.gov
Botox, short for ‘botulinum toxin’, is a widely known bacterium used for procedures that can be found across the globe to treat wrinkles but also medical issues such as overactive bladders. In essence, it paralyzes muscles which leads to skin straightening and reducing the activity of the injected area.
The bacteria can be found in nature and particular foods, causing a rare but life threatening food poisoning which can cause blurred vision, facial muscle weakness and difficulty breathing. But don’t you worry. The bacteria used by medical professionals during Botox procedures is highly diluted and pure, only ever interrupting nerve impulses to muscles.
Despite the popularity of Botox and it’s high success rate, many newcomers still find themselves asking whether it is a good idea. As such, I’m here to enable you to make an informed decision after presenting some of the pros and cons of Botox. While it is highly praised, it is not for everyone and should be considered well beforehand.
Pros of Botox:
Fast and painless
Temporary fillers and similar Botox injections are highly praised because of the fast appointments (sometimes only 5 to 10 minutes) and generally painless procedures. In addition, it usually only takes a few days for you to start seeing the results of it.
It works
Taking it from both the FDA and the millions of people who use Botox every year, it really does work. According to the BBC, Botox rates in America rose by 41% between 2011 and 2017 for 19 to 34 year olds. In the UK alone, it accounts for 39% of the non-surgical treatments carried out annually.
It’s not permanent
Another benefit of Botox is you can stop anytime. If you try it out and are not a fan you simply do not need to go back. All you need to do is wait for it to wear off and your skin will return to the way it was before.
There are few risks
Botox is globally famous because of its low-risk treatment. Most risks that do appear are a result of the individuals personal health or because of going to an unprofessional surgery. Unlicensed surgeries can use cheap rip-offs of Botox that can cause harm so it is important to find a safe and known practice.
It’s not just for the aesthetic
While Botox is mostly known for reducing wrinkles it is also used for some medical issues too. It can help reduce excessive sweating, overactive bladders, relax muscles and help with migraine relief.
Cons of Botox:
Allergic reactions
Unfortunately, some people may experience allergic reactions towards Botox. This is another reason why it is important to make sure you are at a professional clinic so that the injector can properly treat you in case of a negative reaction.
It’s not permanent and costs
As mentioned before, this is both a pro and a con. The temporary nature of Botox means you can stop at any time but it also means you will have to continuously get injections if you like what it does. This adds up with the average Botox treatment ranging from £100 to £350 in the UK, some procedures even costing up to £1500.
It can take a few tries
Like a lot of things, Botox doesn’t always go smoothly at first. It can take several tries before you find one that works for you and this can cost you a lot of money. This is not a common experience but once again make sure you go to a professional practice.
There can be side effects
Wild side effects from Botox are generally mild, such as bruising and some headaches, there can be major issues for a small percentage of users. This can range from neck pain, minor loss of speech, an infection in the respiratory tract or the loss of some facial expressions. Consult a doctor immediately.
The Islamic perspective
In Islam everything relating to beautification and adornments has to be used with balance in mind. Things like jewellery, hena, kohl, creams and balms are allowed because they are none surgical. Anything that is surgical which alters the body is prohibited by many Islamic schools of thought. It is considered a way that changes the human form and therefore wrong.
When it comes to Botox and Fillers, they are seen as non surgical and a way of treating wrinkles and lines on the face or other body parts. The intention is to improve a person’s appearance and so they are allowed. But there are strict conditions about what these injections may contain and it is important to look out for impure substances such as those from pigs or human albumin. Also these injections may have side effects that can cause serious harm. Many people may not experience any side effects but the risk is there so always do your research.
Whatever you decide to do, make sure to do research and go to a respectable and known clinic that will provide professional care and hold the relevant permits and insurance.
Would you or have you ever tried Botox? Let us know your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
