There are a lot of inaccuracies and untruths out there about botulinum toxin. Here are 10 myths we are going to bust!

Myth 1: It can be used anywhere on the face
There's a filler or injectable to treat just about every line and wrinkle on the face, but botulinum toxin cannot be used for everything. While it may seem like it can be used all over the face, there are only certain areas where it works; other injectables are an option for problems it cannot correct.

Myth 2: It works immediately
Because it acts on the nerves that control muscle movement, it can take anywhere from three to five days to set in before you notice results.

Myth 3: You can never develop an allergy
Anyone can be allergic to anything, toxin included. Although rare, there have been cases of allergies following injections, though it can be hard to distinguish between a true allergy to the toxin or an allergy to the diluent used.

Myth 4: If you work out a lot you'll need more than the average person
Whether you're a workout fiend or you haven't seen the inside of a gym in years, it's not your workout choices that dictate how much toxin you need, but rather the degree of your lines and wrinkles.

Myth 5: It alters your emotions
If done correctly and in proper moderation, results will look natural and emotions will still be expressed on your face. The angry appearance that occurs when you furrow your brow will be diminished, but in the right amount it will not affect other movements like lifting your brows or smiling, so you remain expressive.

Myth 6: You can never become immune to it
It is extremely rare, but it is possible to develop resistance due to the formation of antibodies following repeat injections. Techniques to deal with these cases include using a different brand of toxin, or using the minimum dose required at the longest interval between treatments.

Myth 7: It's the same as the toxin found in food poisoning
Some people believe the toxin injected is the same as the bacteria that causes botulism. Actually, manufacturers produce an isolated toxin that is not the entire bacteria.

Myth 8: It gives a fake looking result
The majority of my patients tell me no one knows they have had anything done. That's the goal. Done correctly and in moderation, it can look natural. My aim is to under-treat so you look renewed and refreshed. Practitioners who over-treat clients are the ones responsible for the fake, over-injected look.

Myth 9: It won't do anything for super-heavy forehead lines
It can work wonders on deeply etched lines. It can sometimes take multiple rounds of treatment and time before the muscles become weak enough to really soften the lines.

Myth 10: It's safe to have anyone inject it as long as they are some sort of doctor
Aesthetics practitioners should be medical professionals with advanced training and clinical experience in aesthetics. Each person has differences in their anatomy and expectations of treatment, so the skill of an appropriately trained aesthetics practitioner is pivotal in planning injection sites, dosages and considering how movement will change to deliver a beautiful, natural result.