Staying Healthy
Beware do-it-yourself cosmetic injections
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Cosmetic procedures, including injection of neurotoxins (like Botox) and dermal fillers, have become very popular for their power to smooth wrinkles and minimize signs of aging. But the American Academy of Dermatology is warning that these procedures are not for DIYers. An article published in the April 2020 issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology outlined an uptick in the number of illegal injectable fillers and neurotoxins being sold to the public online. When used by trained providers, these products are generally safe, but serious complications can arise, including stroke, infections, blindness, and tissue death. In rare cases, improper use leads to fatal complications. Some people have been purchasing these products online and following Internet tutorials to inject the products themselves. If you are planning on having any of these treatments, be certain to have the procedure performed in a medical office by a licensed medical professional.
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