Wrinkle relaxer is a popular cosmetic procedure that involves injecting a neurotoxin into the facial muscles to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. It is a safe and effective procedure when done by a qualified and experienced medical professional. However, getting wrinkle relaxer overseas, especially from countries Aussies go to often like Thailand or Bali, is not without its risks. In this blog, we will explore the dangers of getting wrinkle relaxer overseas and why you should reconsider thinking it is a viable option.
Lack of regulation
One of the main concerns of getting wrinkle relaxer overseas is the lack of regulation in some countries. In Australia, wrinkle relaxer injections can only be performed by a qualified medical practitioner who is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). They are required to follow strict safety protocols, use high-quality products, and adhere to ethical standards.
However, in some countries, there may not be such regulations in place, and anyone can perform wrinkle relaxer injections without proper training or certification. This increases the risk of receiving a substandard procedure, which can lead to serious health complications, such as infection or a poor result.
Unsafe products
Another risk of getting wrinkle relaxer overseas is the use of unsafe or counterfeit products. Wrinkle relaxers are a prescription-only medicine that must be stored and administered correctly to ensure its safety and efficacy. However, in some countries, fake wrinkle relaxer products may be readily available, and they may not be subject to the same safety regulations as genuine wrinkle relaxers.
These fake products may contain harmful substances or be diluted, reducing their effectiveness and increasing the risk of adverse effects. Using fake wrinkle relaxers can also lead to infection or allergic reactions.
Inadequate consultations
Consultations are an essential part of the wrinkle relaxer process. During a consultation, your practitioner will assess your medical history, discuss your desired outcome, and explain the procedure’s risks and benefits. However, when getting wrinkle relaxer overseas, consultations may be rushed or inadequate, and your practitioner may not fully understand your medical history or your expectations.
This can result in an unsatisfactory outcome, which can be difficult or impossible to reverse. Inadequate consultations can also lead to complications, such as injecting too much/not enough wrinkle relaxer or injecting it into the wrong muscle, resulting in drooping or asymmetry of the face.
Language barriers
Another issue when getting wrinkle relaxer overseas is the language barrier. In many countries, English is not the first language, and it can be challenging to communicate effectively with your practitioner. This can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations, which can result in a poor outcome or even harm.
In addition, if you experience complications or adverse effects after your procedure, it may be challenging to communicate your concerns to your practitioner or seek appropriate medical attention.
Costs of corrective treatments
While getting wrinkle relaxer overseas may seem like a great option, it can actually end up costing more in the long run. If you receive a substandard procedure or experience complications, you may need corrective treatments to fix the issue which can be costly.
It is common for wrinkle relaxer patients to require a ‘top-up’ dosage. This is when the initial wrinkle relaxer treatment has had 2-3 weeks to take effect and there are still very mobile muscles present so some added product is required. This should be completed by the person who did the initial procedure as it is a review of the initial process. Most injectors will not be keen to review another persons wrinkle relaxer as they have no information about what was used, dosages or exact locations all very important considerations in follow up treatment. The relationship between injector and client is one that aims to be ongoing and refines a patients needs, given as humans we all have different requirements and so require a bespoke treatment.
In addition, if you experience adverse effects, you may need to seek medical attention, which can also be expensive. Medical insurance may not cover complications from cosmetic procedures, so you may be left with the bill.
Overall, the risks of getting wrinkle relaxer overseas far outweigh any benefits. While it may seem tempting to save money on a cosmetic procedure, the potential risks to your health and appearance are not worth it.
If you are considering getting wrinkle relaxer, it is crucial to choose a qualified and experienced medical practitioner who is registered with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency).
Disclaimer: Content in this blog and linked materials is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. If you or any other person has a medical concern, professional medical treatment should be sought. Call your doctor or emergency services immediately if you believe you have a medical emergency.