Steve Dubin recently asked:


DATELINE: COHASSET AND PLYMOUTH, MASS… South Shore Skin Center, one of the most progressive dermatology practices in Massachusetts with offices in Plymouth and Cohasset, cautions consumers about “Botox Parties” where Botox injections are one of the highlights of the party.

 

Botox parties are very popular, especially with brides and their bridal parties who want to look their best on the “big day”. Botox is used to treat lines around the eyes, frown lines between the eyes, and lines on the forehead that often appear with age. Botox works by relaxing the muscles that contract to form these lines, creating a smoother appearance in the treated areas. Yet, there is significant health risk to those who receive Botox injections outside of a doctor’s office.

 

South Shore Skin Center warns consumers of the dangers of receiving Botox injections anywhere but a physician’s office:

 



The Botox used in a home setting or other non-medical environment may not be direct from Allergan, the makers of the highest grade of Botox Cosmetic (Botulinum Toxin A) which is FDA approved. There is no guarantee that the solution being used at a party is even safe for injection.



 



If laboratory botulinum toxin is used, rather than Botox Cosmetic, systemic effects may occur as were seen in the case of the doctor, several years ago, who paralyzed several patients and himself by injecting high concentrations of veterinary grade botulism toxin. Individuals should check to be sure that the bottle says “Botox Cosmetic”.



 



If the Botox is not reconstituted properly and/or not kept refrigerated, it may become inactive.



 



If sterile conditions are not observed when reconstituting or administering the Botox, infection may develop. 



 



At a Botox party, there are no medical personnel on hand to assist in case of an immediate adverse reaction.



 



Administration of Botox by those who are untrained may not be done correctly. Improper placement of the Botox may result in brow droop. Other side effects include bruising, headache and lid droop.



“Although a Botox type of solution may be obtained outside of a physician’s office, we do not recommend using it. The risk of serious illness, adverse effects and infection is significant when a questionable solution of Botox is injected by those who are not qualified,” explained Dr. Richard Eisen, dermatologist at South Shore Skin Center.

 

He continued, “At South Shore Skin Center, patient safety is a priority. For anyone who is interested in receiving Botox Cosmetic, we recommend that you consult a dermatologist.”

 

Dr. Eisen is among Allergan Corp.’s national training staff in the use of Botox Cosmetic. South Shore Skin Center uses only the highest grade of Botox Cosmetic available, known as Botulinum Toxin A, which is an FDA approved, highly purified form of the Clostridium Botulinum bacterium made by Allergan, to ensure patient safety. Qualified medical staff who administer Botox Cosmetic at South Shore Skin Center are fully trained.