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Is Botox Really Safe?

by | Nov 7, 2025 | Blog

dermatologist examines skin of patient

Dermatologists Reveal the 7 Things Every First-Timer Should Know

Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in the world — but if you’ve never had it before, you probably have questions. Is Botox safe? What are the side effects? Should you worry about looking “frozen”?

Here at Deschutes Dermatology, our board-certified providers in Bend and Redmond, OR, regularly treat first-time patients with Botox Cosmetic. The good news? When done properly by a trained expert, Botox injections are both safe and effective — and nothing to be afraid of.

Below, we’re breaking down seven things every Botox beginner should know before their first appointment, including what to expect and how to get results you’ll love.

  1. Botox Is FDA-Approved and Backed by Decades of Safety Data

Botox Cosmetic has been FDA-approved since 2002 for the temporary improvement of frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines. In the decades since, millions of treatments have been safely performed worldwide.

While no treatment is entirely risk-free, Botox has one of the best safety records in cosmetic dermatology — especially when administered by a board-certified dermatologist or experienced injector.

  1. Botox Works by Relaxing, Not Freezing, Your Muscles

Forget the frozen-face myth. Botox injections temporarily relax targeted facial muscles to smooth the overlying skin — not erase your ability to express emotion.

With skilled application and proper dosing, you’ll still look like you — just more refreshed and well-rested.

Want more details? Check out our blog on Everything You Need to Know About Botox.

  1. Side Effects Are Usually Mild and Temporary

The most common Botox side effects include:

  • Redness or swelling at the injection site
  • Mild bruising
  • Headache or tenderness

These effects typically resolve within a day or two. Serious complications are extremely rare, especially when Botox is performed by a qualified medical professional.

  1. You Shouldn’t Get Botox Just Anywhere

Botox may be common — but that doesn’t mean all providers are equal.

Look for a trusted dermatology clinic or medical office (not a pop-up med spa) where Botox is administered by trained and licensed professionals. In Bend and Redmond, Deschutes Dermatology offers medically supervised Botox treatments tailored to your anatomy and goals.

➡️ Meet our dermatology providers

  1. The Results Are Temporary (Which Is a Good Thing for Beginners)

Botox typically lasts 3 to 4 months. For first-timers, that’s ideal — you can ease into the treatment, see how your body responds, and adjust your plan from there.

Some patients even choose light dosing (sometimes called “baby Botox”) to get subtle results with less commitment upfront.

  1. Botox Doesn’t Fix Everything — But It Can Do a Lot

Botox targets dynamic wrinkles — the lines caused by repeated facial movements like frowning or squinting. It won’t treat volume loss or skin texture issues, but it can be combined with:

Want to know how Botox compares to other injectables? See Botox vs. Fillers: Understanding the Difference

  1. Your First Botox Session Should Start with a Personalized Consultation

Before any injections, your provider should evaluate your facial anatomy, discuss your goals, and explain what to expect.

At Deschutes Dermatology, our Botox consultations are thorough, honest, and never rushed. We’ll answer your questions, assess your candidacy, and build a treatment plan that fits your comfort level and budget.

Schedule Your Botox Consultation in Bend, Or with Trusted Experts: Contact Deschutes Dermatology Today

Getting Botox for the first time shouldn’t feel overwhelming — it should feel empowering. Our experienced dermatology team is here to guide you every step of the way, so you can feel confident in your results and your provider. Schedule a consultation or fill out our online form to book your first Botox appointment today. You can also view Botox before & after photos to see real patient results.