Avoid Botox Side Effects and Achieve Vibrant, Plump Skin With Zero Toxins
The use of cosmetic Botox has exploded in the last decade. While Botox used to be a somewhat “hush-hush” beauty procedure, it’s now widely accepted – even encouraged for anti-aging.
It’s easy to assume Botox’s side effects are overblown since dermatologists (who are supposed to be the conventional skin experts) are even offering cosmetic Botox for anti-aging…
But at Primally Pure, we believe that nature has provided us with everything our bodies need to restore and support skin health as we age – completely free of toxins and synthetic fillers.
There’s no denying your skin changes as you age. But there is a world of (often overlooked) holistic and safe alternatives to Botox to keep your skin plump, happy, and taught – needle-free.
We’re giving you the information others don't like to share because you deserve it. Don’t waste precious hours of your day going down a black hole of research. We’re here to help.
To set the record straight: Botox is not your friend. We know, she seems awesome, but we promise, she's the worst friend you could have. Here's why.
What Is Botox + Why Is Botox Dangerous?
Simply put, Botox is a synthetically formed chemical additive injected into the skin to cause paralysis of the facial muscles with the intention of smoothing wrinkles. It’s an injectable neurotoxin.
Does it work? The short answer? Yes, it does – and even though the results fade after a few months, it’s gained an enormous following.
So it works… but at what cost to your skin health and well-being?
Most Botox side effects pictures are enough to cause concern if you’re unsure. But if you’re a glass-half-full type of person, you may think it’s worth the risk (or that your risk is minuscule).
So if you’re on the fence, stay curious – there’s more to learn.
Here’s what you should know about Botox injections, Botox side effects, why Botox is dangerous, and how the use of Botox can cause long-term issues for your well-being.
Botox Is Scientifically Classified as a Toxin
Umm… Yikes.
Botulinum toxin also called a “miracle poison,” is one of the most poisonous biological substances known.1 Yes, really!
Once this “miracle poison” was approved for cosmetic use, the new trademarked name was shortened to “Botox” – probably to eliminate fear around Botox dangers. Especially since “toxin” is part of the full name – feels similar to greenwashing, huh?
Botox Origins – A Life-Threatening Bacteria in the Wild
So how did a poisonous biological substance turn into something that we inject into our faces?
Sounds crazy saying it out loud, right?
The bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which naturally occurs in the wild, can cause the botulinum toxin to grow in the body. This results in a life-threatening disease called botulism.2 Botulism causes slow paralysis of the body by attacking the nerves and weakening muscles, sometimes even leading to death.
With the discovery of botulism, researchers began to study how to use muscle paralysis for medical purposes. In the 1970s, scientists started using botulinum toxin to treat crossed eyes.
As researchers were testing the use of botulinum toxin for intentional muscle paralysis, they unexpectedly noticed the wrinkles between the eyebrows and above the nose smoothed.3
While the use of localized Botox was a medical discovery that made sense in specific situations, it quickly got out of hand. This led to the use and approval of Botox for a wide variety of cosmetic purposes in the last 50+ years – despite numerous Botox dangers.
After discovering its ability to smooth lines and wrinkles, scientists figured out how to make a “controlled” paralysis and inject it under the skin to disrupt nerve connections and smooth muscle spasms (what we know as wrinkles) – but at what cost?
And is it truly localized?
One of the Critical Botox Dangers – Adds to Your Toxic Load
We’re all exposed to toxins daily, but minimizing toxins is crucial for your skin health and overall health.
Because Botox wears off after a few months, the toxins are absorbed into your bloodstream and dissolve.
And yes, our bodies are regenerative and have detoxifying powers – but keeping up with Botox maintenance means you’re feeding this toxin to your body every few months. This puts your health at risk and significantly adds to your toxic load faster than your body can realistically detox from it.
Botox Side Effects
A quick google search of “Botox side effects pictures” will prove Botox injections can have devastating side effects – some temporary, some permanent. What’s worse, some of these Botox side effects can pop up weeks after injection.
Side effects of Botox include a lengthy list of some pretty nerve-wracking concerns, including:4
- Allergic reactions – hives, itching, wheezing, difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Muscle weakness – unusual or severe (note: it’s most common in places you DIDN’T even have the injection!)
- Drooping eyelids or eyebrows
- Vision changes or sensitivity to light
- Chest pain or pressure
- Urination problems – painful or difficult urination
- Increased sweating
- Body aches – headache, neck pain, or back pain
This isn’t an exhaustive list, but as you can see, the side effects of Botox are vast and extend well beyond the site of injection. It’s safe to say the dangers of Botox aren’t localized.
Another potential danger is developing a condition known as iatrogenic botulism. This form of botulism is directly linked with too much botulinum toxin being injected into the body, and can even be fatal in some cases.5
We know how tempting a wrinkle-free face can be, but by choosing "the quicker" option, you may experience health concerns you weren't prepared to face. And as we all know, the really great things in life take time – they don't just fall on our laps, no matter how much we wished they would, right?
Holistic medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine have proven that everything in the body is connected. This is promising news because it means we have other options for anti-aging!
There’s an overwhelming amount of warnings and side effects against this injectable neurotoxin. Doctors and researchers still don’t fully understand all the potential side effects of Botox, but there are plenty of risks for us to say no. Instead, we can say yes to the numerous natural alternatives with better long-term results.
Your body is sacred. We weren’t intended to fill our bodies with toxins.
Give yourself the gift of a holistic routine with Botox alternatives that are painless, safe, soothing, and long-lasting. Take this comprehensive skincare quiz to figure out your skin state and what routine is best for you. It’s difficult enough navigating the beauty world – you don’t have to do it alone.
Our Favorite Botox Alternatives: All the Benefits, None of the Scary Side Effects of Botox
The world of wellness and skin health can feel overwhelming – sometimes, there’s too much advice and too many options.
Want in on a secret for your skin and overall health when it comes to aging gracefully? Routine + Simplicity.
→ Simplify your ingredients.
→ Stay away from toxins to lessen your toxic load.
→ Be consistent no matter what.
→ Make adjustments where you can, and target your skin concerns at the root.
And to round out your skin health, prioritize loving, nourishing practices in your routine.
Here are some of our favorite products and practices you can use as natural alternatives to Botox for beautiful, glowing results.
Facial Massage
A facial with a qualified holistic esthetician or an at-home facial massage can go a long way. Stimulation and pressure create blood flow, bringing healing and regeneration to your skin.
Plus, it’s super relaxing and a much-needed nutrient boost!
Facial Gua Sha Tool
Similar to a facial massage, the benefits of facial gua sha are endless and even backed by science.6 We love using a facial gua sha tool to increase circulation and blood flow and support lymphatic drainage for optimal skin health. Some even claim facial gua sha is better than Botox.
Check out a few of our tutorials if you’re curious about the facial gua sha technique and how it works.
Red Light Therapy
Studies on the benefits of red light therapy for anti-aging continue to increase. This research proves this technique supports collagen production, overall skin complexion, and fine lines and wrinkles.7
With technology at our fingertips, we can find plenty of options for at home red light therapy. There are no known side effects + it’s a simple way to create a relaxing spa-like atmosphere at home. Indulge yourself!
Facial Roller
Using a facial roller once a day can work wonders for anti-aging. It gently stimulates lymphatic drainage, detoxifies skin tissues, and boosts blood flow to the face to open healing pathways.
Plus, you can choose a stone type to support your skin-specific needs (or you can choose a color that makes you happy because they all work wonders).
Facial Dry Brush
We’re big on facial dry brush benefits. This simple tool is a wonderful, easy way to support your lymphatic system – there’s no such thing as too much support. All while attaining a gentle exfoliation of the skin that isn’t abrasive like chemical peels.
And it only takes 2 minutes a day – that’s as convenient as skincare gets!
Best Alternative to Botox: Choices That Nourish Your Body
While tools are an essential part of a healthy skin routine, they aren’t the only thing to consider. A healthy lifestyle should guide your choices – when it comes down to it, natural choices are simply the best alternatives to Botox. Here are a few things to keep in mind.Moisture! Hydration Is Key to Plump Skin
Protect your skin’s moisture barrier at all costs – it shields your skin’s unique microbiome – this includes what you wash your face with! You don’t want to put abrasive surfactants on your skin that will strip natural oils – that’s why we recommend a facial oil cleanser.
Hydrating your body on the inside is just as important – your skin reflects your body’s hydration status, so give it all the love you can!
Not a big water drinker? Try adding cucumber (or salt + lemon) to your water for flavor and an extra hydration boost.
Give Your Skin (And Your Body) The Nutrients It Needs
What you put on your skin is critical. Opt for ingredients that support your skin’s natural state because it’s the healthiest and most radiant version! Here are some safe, nutrient-dense options you can use to encourage optimal skin health:And don’t forget to pay attention to your gut health, too – it’s all related!
Support Your Body’s Natural Processes
- Supporting the lymphatic system is crucial for your skin’s health. Your lymphatic system is in charge of supporting your body’s detox and cleansing processes. This includes protecting your face from toxins! And the healthier your skin is, the younger your skin looks.
- Get enough sleep! Prioritize your rest by setting up a dark, inviting environment that supports deep, rejuvenating sleep. It’s not just about letting your brain rest after a long day – giving your skin rest is equally as important for optimal skin health.
- Take care of your emotional health through gratitude, and tune into your cycles for intuitive wisdom on what you need. Less anxiety means fewer wrinkles.
Lessen Your Toxic Load + Eliminate Botox Side Effects for Graceful Aging
Making changes that aren’t always accepted by mainstream health can be challenging. People may not understand why you say no to something that many others readily support.
But at the end of the day, it’s your life. You alone have the power to change your world and your skin. Want to see a difference? Lessen your toxic load, inside and out, and see how your life shifts for the better. Pick up a new tool and try it out. You might be pleasantly shocked at how well it works for you.
(PS! If you do currently have Botox, it’s best to wait four weeks before starting with a new anti-aging tool or practice).
The dangers of Botox are better left behind. You’ve got plenty of natural tools and tricks as an alternative to Botox. We hope you’ll see why Botox side effects aren’t worth the risk – because you’re worth more.
Choosing an alternative to Botox doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy noticeable anti-aging effects! We're here to guide you on your journey to beautifully aging, natural skin.
If you let it, natural healing modalities will bring beauty and healing into all aspects of your life – it's not just skin deep.
Sources:
- Botulinum Toxin
- Botulism | CDC
- The Remarkable Story of Botox.
- Botox Injections: Uses, Side Effects, and Warnings
- Kinds of Botulism | CDC
- The Effect of Gua Sha Treatment on Microcirculation of Surface Tissue
- A Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy of Red and Near-Infrared Light Treatment in Patient Satisfaction, Reduction of Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Skin Roughness, and Intradermal Collagen Density Increase
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