Board-Certified Dermatologist 'near me' in Encinitas, CA Debunks Botox Myths

Expain the Botox Myths, Dr. Amanda Lloyd at Skin & Vein Institute in Encinitas, CA

Botox received its initial FDA approval for cosmetic use more than 15 years ago, yet many myths about this treatment remain. With a plethora of information at your fingertips via the internet, it is difficult to know what to believe and what not to believe. Dr. Amanda Lloyd is a Board-Certified Dermatologist in Encinitas, CA who will set straight three common misperceptions.

Myth #1 - Botox is Unnatural and Foreign

Botox is actually very natural. It is a protein made by bacteria. Therefore, the product is technically organic. It is composed of:

Carbon
Hydrogen
Nitrogen
Oxygen
Sulfur

This protein binds to receptors (in the same way other proteins in your body behave), to create the results we all love. The outcome of Botox binding to its receptor is that it relaxes the muscles where it is placed. Relaxation of the muscle allows the skin to recover so it no longer is creased. The reason we get wrinkles in our skin in certain areas is because the skin is no longer able to recover fully from being constantly creased by strong facial muscles. When you receive Botox injections, your muscles are relaxed, permitting the skin to bounce back. With continued Botox treatments, the muscles lose strength and therefore, the skin becomes less furrowed, with a smoother, more glowing finish.

Myth #2 - Botox is Permanent

Botox is definitely not permanent. It is metabolized by your body, just like the natural proteins that cause muscles to contract and relax. Botox typically lasts about three to six months, but it really depends on your body and how it metabolizes the proteins. Everyone's muscles are a little bit different, and so the longevity varies from person to person. Also, each patient has a unique preference for the amount of muscle movement they want to see following treatment. Some people like to have a more frozen appearance, whereas others prefer more movement. The result you are looking for should be discussed with Dr. Lloyd, so she can provide the appropriate treatment to produce the results you desire.

It is actually a positive that Botox is that it is not permanent, for a few reasons. First, this is a great comfort if you are considering treatment for the first time, because if you don't like the outcome, it is gone after four months, per the FDA label and you will be back to your original state. However, if you, like most of our patients, enjoy the smoother, more youthful-looking results, then periodic repeat injections are required. Like most areas of life, maintenance is necessary to keep things looking great, and Botox is an excellent way to ensure that you Look Stunning. Always. Another reason why its lack of permanence is great is that this is how your wrinkles are reduced while still having fluid facial movements.

If Botox was indeed permanent then your look would be frozen, without any expression. However, since it is metabolized by the body the results are fluid and natural while still effectively treating the unwanted wrinkles.

Myth #3 - Botox Makes your Eyelids Sag

When put in the appropriate location, and the correct dose is used, Botox absolutely does not make the eyelids sag.

However, problematic side effects can arise when:

Botox is used inappropriately.
A knock-off product is used.
Treatment is performed by a non-expert injector.

When Botox is used appropriately and by an expert injector such as Board-Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Amanda Lloyd, treatment beautifully erases forehead lines, opens the eyes, and lifts the eyelids.

Due diligence is essential in choosing the right injector to safely create the natural, beautiful results that you deserve.

More About Botox

Botox is Allergan's brand name for a prescription drug made with onabotulinum toxin A. When placed in muscle, it causes relaxation of those specific muscles by preventing the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Botox was initially developed in the late 1970s to treat strabismus (crossed eyes), and has since been used to successfully treat many medical conditions such as migraines, muscle disorders, chronic pain, bladder dysfunction, and excessive sweating.

Following extensive clinical trials, in 2002 the FDA approved Botox to improve the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines, those vertical folds between the eyebrows which are also known as the "11 lines." Botox was subsequently approved in 2013 for the treatment of the crow's feet – the fine lines at the corners of eyes, and in 2017 for the treatment of the forehead wrinkles. It is safely and effectively injected "off label" in many other facial areas where muscle contractions cause wrinkles.

It is important to remember that you are being injected with a muscle relaxant. Therefore, knowing the qualifications and training of your injector is important. For the best results, make sure you see a Board-Certified Dermatologist that is an expert in aesthetics like Dr. Amanda Lloyd.

Dr. Lloyd is more than happy to discuss how she can enhance your aesthetic appeal with Botox for a natural, youthful look. If you would like to schedule a consultation, please don't hesitate to call Skin & Vein Institute in Encinitas, CA at (760) 642-6674, or email [email protected].

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Success Stories

Sarah B.

Originally posted on Google

Five star review originally posted on Google

Dr. Lloyd is amazing! She was able to get my skin better than it has ever looked. Her injectables are the best I have ever had and totally natural. So glad I found her!

Larissa S.

Originally posted on Google

I had the absolute best experience with Dr. Lloyd and her team. Dr Lloyd is so smart and skilled and her team was very professional, informative and kind. She and her team were also the sweetest to follow up with me the next day and a few after that. Top notch, cant recommend more!

Dr. Nancy

Originally posted on Google

The Skin & Vein Institute has everything that you will need when considering an excellent skin care facility. They have a fabulous spa-like office suite where you can watch videos on how-to take the best care of your skin, you can treat yourself to a cup of tea, or check out the new mini skin care items in the sample bowl!

Meet Dr. Amanda Lloyd

Dr. Amanda Lloyd is a respected Board Certified Dermatologist based in Encinitas, CA, with over 14 years of experience. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from UCLA Honors College and a medical degree from the University of Vermont College of Medicine. Dr. Lloyd completed her dermatology residency as chief resident at Baylor University Medical Center. She then was a fellow in Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery after which she became board certified in Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology. A Fellow of the American Society for Mohs Surgery, she is also a member of the AAD and ABVLM. An editor for JAMA Dermatology, Dr. Lloyd contributes to advancing dermatological knowledge. Her dedication to patient care and education underscores her trustworthiness and expertise.