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Top 5 Things To Know Before Going to a Botox Party
When sexy divorcée Danielle Staub, one of the stars of Bravo’s Real Housewives of New Jersey, threw a Botox bash for all her friends and frenemies during a recent episode of this hit reality show, the fete did more than thrust Staub’s often poor financial priorities into the spotlight—it also may have brought Botox parties back from the abyss.

Once called the Tupperware parties of the new millennium, Botox parties fell from grace as safety concerns about the risks of being injected by unskilled or unlicensed clinicians in less-than-sterile environments grew. Now some fear that Botox parties may be making a comeback, and that they may be even more dangerous than before.

Here are the 5 key things to keep in mind before you RSVP “yes” to any Botox bash.

Avoid amateur injectors.

Botox shots require precise knowledge of facial anatomy. These injections must be given by a qualified, trained physician. There is an increased risk for side effects when an unskilled clinician injects Botox using improper techniques. These side effects may run the gamut from drooping eyelids, asymmetry of facial features to, in extreme cases, swallowing and respiratory disorders. As many skilled aesthetic physicians refuse to offer at-home cosmetic services, it’s prudent to ask the party doc about his or her training and background. Also, make sure the doctor takes your medical history because you may not be an appropriate candidate for Botox. A party often doesn’t leave time or offer the privacy necessary to take a thorough medical history.

Avoid unsanitary conditions.

Botox or any injectables should be administered in an appropriate setting such as a doctor’s office or a medical spa, using sterile instruments. Regardless of how clean and hygienic you are, your home is likely not the appropriate venue for cosmetic surgery. Besides the actual injection, it’s important that the clinician is also skilled at handling and disposing of the needles so that potential contaminants cannot be transferred. Botox is strain of botulinum toxin — the same toxin that causes botulism.

Avoid tainted, watered down Botox.

There have been some reports of people being injected with everything and anything at Botox parties, from liquid silicone and baby oil to tainted or watered-down Botox, with disastrous results. In addition, there are several types of Botox-type products on the market today including Botox and Botox Cosmetic, Myobloc, and Dysport. These products cannot be used interchangeably and each requires special preparation and dosing. Bottom line: trust only a skilled, licensed doctor from an aesthetic practice to provide pure products in appropriate doses.

Don’t nip and then tuck.

Parties and alcohol often go hand-in-hand, but consuming alcohol – even just a nip --before, during or immediately after Botox injections can increase your risk of bruising and swelling. It’s also important to steer clear of other substances that increase risk of bruising and bleeding such as aspirin, ibuprofen and certain supplements prior to Botox injections.

Avoid bargain Botox.

Like everything else, you get what you pay for when it comes to Botox injections. The average price of a treatment ranges from $300 to $1200, so if someone is offering a $99 special, Botox buyer beware. The serum may be watered down and the injector might not have the proper qualifications.

In the right hands and the right setting, Botox injections are safe and effective at treating wrinkles. In fact, Botox injections were once again the No.1 most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure in 2008, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. More than 5 million people received Botox injections in 2008, up 8 percent from 2007 despite the lagging economy.

If you’re considering holding a Botox bash, be smart and have it at your local medical spa. Many offer party packages that take all the hosting pressure off and let everyone (including you) enjoy themselves. And while there, treat your friends to some of the other services they offer, such as a nice microdermabrasion or even a massage. All of that’s tough to do in your living room. Sure, Danielle had her party at home, but she’s never been the best role model, right?

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