Botox has become one of the most popular beauty treatments in recent years. If you’re new to Botox and have searched “Botox clinics near me” more than once, you’ve found an excellent site for all the information you’ll need. Many women who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant wonder whether it’s safe to receive injections while pregnant. Simply, it’s best to hold off on the needle to keep your budding little one safe. However, that is not to say there aren’t exceptions and alternatives. 

What is Botox?

        Botox, also known as botulinum toxin type A, is a purified protein derived from Clostridium botulinum, widely used in aesthetic dermatology. It paralyzes muscle movement in the injected areas to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. However, Botox has been revolutionary for people who suffer from muscle spasms after a stroke, intense migraines, and hyperhidrosis, so much so that Botox has officially been FDA-approved. Botox can better your quality of life or be purely cosmetic. Knowing this is important when discussing whether it’s safe for pregnant women.

Botox and Pregnancy

        Generally, it’s always best to ere on the side of caution when it comes to the life of your little one. While there’s been a little research on Botox’s effects on fetus development in pregnant women, there is not nearly enough information to confidently suggest getting Botox while pregnant is safe. In most cases, however, there hasn’t been any harm to the fetus, especially for women who receive injections in the first trimester. Life is messy, and as much as we wish we could, we can’t plan everything; so, if you find yourself in a situation where you found out you’re pregnant after you’ve already received a Botox injection, don’t panic because studies have shown little to no developmental issues arise in the fetus for women who’ve gotten a Botox injection in their first trimester. The risk increases the further along your pregnancy. 

If you’re treating an ailment where Botox significantly helps your quality of life, and there’s no other alternative, your doctor may agree with continuing your Botox treatments if the risks to your fetus far outweigh the risks of stopping your treatments. However, it’s highly recommended you have lengthy discussions with your doctor, obstetrician, and neonatal neurologist before proceeding with treatments.

        If you’ve resolved to stop your Botox treatments or wait until your little bun is out of the oven to start your Botox treatments, you may be wondering if you can receive your injections while breastfeeding. There has been no evidence that your Botox injection can pass through your breast milk to your baby. For the overall safety of your baby, however, it’s best to prolong your injections until after you’ve finished breastfeeding. 

Botox Alternatives While Pregnant

        In the fight against time, there are so many products that dermatologists have found to combat signs of aging. Here are a few pregnancy-approved alternatives to help counteract wrinkles and fine lines during your nine months away from Botox.

  • Argireline – Known as the closest thing to Botox without going under the needle, Argireline is a rich peptide that helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles by interfering with nerve and muscle movement. It also stimulates collagen production and helps the skin to retain moisture. You can use it every day with your regular skincare routine.
  • Glycolic Acid – Often used as an exfoliant, Glycolic acid targets the outer layer of skin by helping you shed dead skin cells. Glycolic acid stimulates collagen production, which causes the skin to feel firm while minimizing the appearance of fine lines. 
  • Hyaluronic Acid – Hyaluronic acid is excellent at retaining water and is immensely hydrating to the skin. Using it daily helps your skin stretch and flex while reducing wrinkles and fine lines. Hyaluronic acid is also known for healing wounds faster and reducing the appearance of scars. 
  • Vitamin C – Vitamin C is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrient that helps to improve skin tone and texture. It hydrates your skin and reduces signs of aging. 
  • SPF – As we age, the sun becomes a stronger enemy in our fight to preserve our youth. SPF helps block damaging sun rays and moisturizes your skin in the process. Regardless of Botox, having it in your daily routine is beneficial. 
  • Facials and peels – Treat yourself with regular facials and peels from your local Med Spa. You’re creating life; you deserve pampering.

So, Should You Get Botox While Pregnant?

        Ultimately, it’s best to play it safe and save the needle for when your little one has made it earth-side. During your nine-month Botox sabbatical, take advantage of the alternative products and create a new and rejuvenating skincare routine that you can continue after your pregnancy. Botox isn’t a fix-all, but incorporating these hydrating and anti-aging products while receiving your Botox treatments (after pregnancy and breastfeeding) will give you the best skin. With all medical procedures, it’s best to research and ask your primary doctors what is best for you. If you’ve been looking for the best Botox clinic near me, look no further than Skin Deep NYC. Schedule a free consultation with the best Botox doctors in NYC.