Mumbai July 6, 2025 : A new beauty trend has taken over social media platforms like TikTok and Reddit - self-injecting Innotox, a South Korean version of botulinum toxin, popularly nicknamed “Korean Botox.” People are buying it online and administering it at home in an attempt to smooth out wrinkles and achieve youthful skin. But what seems like a quick fix for beauty is now raising serious health concerns, with doctors warning it could lead to nerve damage, muscle paralysis, and even death.

Innotox is a botulinum toxin type A product manufactured by a Korean company and used in cosmetic procedures to relax facial muscles and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Unlike traditional Botox, which comes in powder form and needs to be diluted before use, Innotox is pre-mixed in liquid form. This convenience has made it popular among DIY beauty enthusiasts. It doesn’t require dilution, refrigeration, or medical training to prepare - making it dangerously accessible.

Many users have shared their self-injection experiences online, claiming faster results and more affordable treatment compared to professional Botox services. On TikTok and Reddit, users have posted step-by-step videos demonstrating how to inject the product into their faces, describing visible effects in just a few days. Some claim it works within three days and lasts nearly three months. They call it the “gateway Botox” due to its ease of use.

However, what these influencers and beauty vloggers often skip are the risks involved. Medical professionals are now issuing strong warnings against the trend. Innotox is not approved by the US FDA or health authorities in many countries. Since it is widely purchased from unregulated online sources, users cannot be certain about the authenticity, storage conditions, or safety of what they’re injecting into their skin.

Doctors emphasize that incorrect injection techniques can result in serious health issues. Complications may include facial drooping, eyelid ptosis (sagging), infections, allergic reactions, and in some extreme cases, difficulty breathing if the toxin spreads beyond the intended muscles. Improper dosage or placement could lead to asymmetry or long-term nerve damage.

Experts also point out that people injecting themselves may not understand facial anatomy or dosage calculations. Unlike licensed dermatologists or aesthetic doctors who have years of training, online influencers may give a false sense of safety. Several cases have already emerged where users reported unwanted side effects, including lopsided expressions and persistent swelling.

Despite its popularity, Innotox is not risk-free - especially when used outside of clinical supervision. Doctors are urging people to avoid the temptation of DIY beauty hacks that involve injections. They recommend safer alternatives like topical skincare, professionally administered treatments, or even non-invasive technologies such as lasers and radio-frequency skin tightening.

The trend of self-injecting botulinum toxin is being criticized as reckless and potentially dangerous. What may seem like a cheap shortcut to beauty can result in long-term health issues. As the line between cosmetic freedom and medical risk gets blurrier on social media, experts advise that procedures involving potent neurotoxins should be left in the hands of trained professionals - not trending hashtags.