Can I inject myself with Botox? When it comes to self injecting cosmetics, the answer is no. Botox requires specific knowledge on how to properly use it such as how to inject and how much to use.

Botox is a great option for individuals looking for a younger, softer face. Wrinkles and lines can be genetic, come from damage to the skin, or even just be a sign of aging. When used properly, botox can have great results that can be seen almost immediately and can last for months. Botox works by blocking nerve signals to the facial muscles where the botox is injected. This softens wrinkles in the skin because the underlying muscles can not contract. Dr. Deepak Dugar, board certified plastic surgeon, sees many patients at his Scarless MedSpa clinic for a variety of non-invasive cosmetic procedures. Botox is especially popular at his clinic where patients seek out a younger, softer, and natural looking change. 

Though non-invasive cosmetic injectables are marketed as easy and and low risk, they should still only be used by trained medical professionals and only reputable and safety-proven products should be used. Though online tutorials make it look easy, using injectables properly requires extensive training, knowledge, and skill to safely and properly use botox. There can even be side effects and risks when a professional administers the botox, but that trained professional can quickly identify warning signs of side effects and will best know how to address them to keep the patient safe and healthy. 

 

However, the ease of using botox should only be used by the hands of a professional. If used improperly, this otherwise low-risk cosmetic injectable can be very dangerous for those trying to cut corners and cost and try self-injecting botox. The first main risk to self injecting botox is that products marketed for self injecting may not be FDA approved and thus are not regulated. This means these products may contain unknown ingredients that could be harmful to the individual using them. These ingredients include unknown industrial products, silicone, paraffin, and even some hair gel has been found inside marketed botox. Botox available may contain counterfeit products, or even if it is real botox, may be poorly prepared. Botox, a toxin, must be mixed and diluted to very specific standards. Too little and the botox  will not be effective. But what is more concerning, is that too much botox can be life threatening. 

Other complications can arise as well. If not done in a medical professional’s office, there is a risk that the individual using the botox may not be in a sterile environment. This increases risk of infection. Other complications include allergic reactions to the injected substance, face paralysis, or face drooping. It is important to note that though mostly considered low risk and safe, there are risks with any procedure, even when carried out by a professional. However, if any of these risks do arise, a professional will not only be able to catch it early, but will also know how to best and safely respond to the situation. 

Yes, botox is expensive. However, trying to use over the counter products to try to save some money is not worth the risk. Only from a trained professional, such as Dr. Dugar, should you ever inject anything into your face. There are great rewards from botox, but only if used properly! 

If you are interested in receiving quality cosmetic injectables that are safe and trustworthy, visit the Scarless MedSpa site to learn more about if botox is right for you.


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