Is It Safe to Use Botox Under the Eyes?

Can You Use Botox for Under Eye Wrinkles?

Yes, botox can be used for under-eye wrinkles. However, it’s important to first distinguish what’s causing the lines and wrinkles to form in your lower eyelids.

You see, there are many factors that can cause under-eye wrinkles. If it’s caused by aging, then botox may work. However, if the creases are what they call the Dennie-Morgan (DM) lines, then botox won’t be of much help.

Unline aging-related wrinkles, DM lines do not come with age. Some people are born with it or develop it as a result of an allergic reaction. As such, they form during childhood and only become more prominent with age.

Since botox works on the muscles, it can only smooth out wrinkles that develop with age. But it can’t do anything with sagging skin, hence why it won’t work with DM lines.

If you’re not sure, your aesthetician can also help you figure out whether botox injections can help with your under-eye wrinkles.

What are the Risks of Injecting Botox Under the Eyes?

As I mentioned, botox is generally safe. However, it still presents certain risks, especially when used in sensitive areas like the eyes.

Aside from having a needle dangerously close to your pupils, it can also cause various side effects.

Some of the most common side effects of botox injection include:

• bruising
• droopy eyelids
• swelling
• mild pain
• excessive tearing
• eye dryness
• eye numbness
• bloodshot eyes
• dizziness
• headaches

Some patients have also experienced the following side effects, though they tend to be rare:

• bleeding
• fainting
• lopsided facial features
• loss of muscle use
• hives

Can Botox Affect Your Vision Too?

If not injected properly, botox can unfortunately cause blurred or double vision. Remember that botox is a form of toxin.

When injected too close to your inferior oblique muscle or the lateral rectus, it can give you double vision. It can also cause your eyes to become red and bloodshot, making your vision blurry.

This is where the skills and experience of your aesthetician will matter. It takes great skill to safely carry out a botox injection, especially under the eyes. If your administering doctor isn’t skilled enough, the higher the risk of your vision getting affected.

Anyhow, these effects are usually temporary and will wear off after a few days. If it doesn’t, don’t hesitate to consult with your physician.

Alternatives to Botox for Under Eye Wrinkles

If botox doesn’t work for your wrinkles, there are plenty of alternatives you can choose from:

1. Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers can help boost your skin’s collagen production. As a result, it plumps up wrinkles, smooths fine lines, and restores volume to your sagging skin. That’s why it can also be an effective treatment for crow’s feet and under-eye wrinkles.

The most common types of fillers used in this procedure include:

• hyaluronic acid
• calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
• poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA)
• polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)

2. Laser Treatments

Aside from tightening sagging skin, laser treatments like HIFU can also even out skin pigmentation. This won’t only smooth out the fine lines and wrinkles under your eyes but will also lighten dark eye circles.

3. Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

For under-eye lines that non-surgical treatments cannot treat, blepharoplasty offers a permanent solution. This procedure involves removing excess skin from the eyelids, making eyebags, creases, and wrinkles less prominent.

Wrapping It Up

To sum it up, botox is a safe and effective treatment for under-eye wrinkles and there are minimal side effects associated with the procedure.

If you’re concerned about the safety of botox or uncomfortable with needles, there are alternative treatments that may be right for you.

To learn more about your options and find a qualified provider in your area, contact us today.