Botox is a popular aesthetic procedure frequently preferred today to reduce wrinkles, soften expression lines, and give the skin a more youthful appearance. However, as with any medical and aesthetic procedure, Botox may not be suitable for everyone. The question of “Who should not have Botox?” is an important topic that must be answered to ensure safe and effective results. Particularly, for individuals with certain health conditions or during specific periods, Botox application may be inappropriate, and it should always be done with doctor approval.
First and foremost, Botox is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Due to hormonal changes during these periods and the potential unknown effects of botulinum toxin on the mother or baby, it is considered unsafe to perform the procedure. Similarly, Botox can cause serious side effects in individuals with neuromuscular diseases, which affect the muscles and nervous system. In such conditions, as the muscles may already be weakened, the toxin’s effect could be more intense and uncontrollable.
Another group of individuals who should avoid Botox are those with a known allergy to botulinum toxin. People who have previously had Botox and experienced serious reactions should not undergo the procedure again. Additionally, Botox injections should not be applied to areas with active infections, skin conditions, or wounds. The skin should be completely healthy, and there should be no inflammation or allergic conditions before the procedure. Individuals taking blood thinners should also consult their doctors beforehand and, if necessary, temporarily discontinue these medications.
Botox applications should also be carefully considered for individuals with psychological or distorted aesthetic perceptions, such as those with body dysmorphic disorder. Individuals with unrealistic expectations or those expecting miraculous results may experience dissatisfaction after the procedure. In these cases, having a consultation before the procedure is important for both the patient and the specialist.
When performed on the right candidates and in the hands of experts, Botox is a very safe and effective method. However, like any aesthetic intervention, a detailed assessment of the individual’s general health condition, expectations, and skin type is necessary. To avoid permanent harm and achieve the healthiest results, a thorough evaluation by a doctor before the procedure is essential.
This content was prepared based on the recommendations of Associate Professor Dr. Tuğba Falay Gür.
