Botox - A brief description

Giving yourself a facelift with Botox

Botox is the fastest growing cosmetic procedure in the United States. 1.6 million Americans underwent a Botox procedure in the year 2001 alone. Botox is used to prevent wrinkles on the face. Botox was initially used to treat eye spasms and eye misalignments but became popular for its cosmetic use in 2002.

How does it really work?

Botox is derived from Botulinum Toxin Type. It is a protein complex and is produced by bacterium which has the same toxin that results in food poisoning. This bacterium blocks the release of a chemical called acetylcholine that is released by the nerve cells of the body. It virtually blocks every electrical message sent by the brain to the muscles to move and contract. Since these messages are blocked there are less chances of developing wrinkles and fine lines on the face.

The procedure of a Botox treatment involves several small injections in the area of wrinkles and fine lines. The location of these injections totally depends on the size, location and use of the muscles. Anesthesia cream is used, if needed, in the area to be treated. The treatment last for about thirty minutes and one has to wait for about six months to know the effect of the treatment.

What are the benefits of Botox?

Botox can reduce the signs of aging, fine lines and wrinkles to some extent than the other cosmetic procedures or surgeries. It might not be able to completely eradicate the signs of aging, but can certainly reduce it to noticeable level. Skin tends to become smoother and better looking. Results of Botox injections are known only after a couple of weeks after the procedure.

Do Botox treatments have side effects?

If there is too much Botox injected in the wrong area, it leads to drooping of the eyelid muscles and other skin problems. Though Botox sounds encouraging to women, it might not be applicable to everyone. Pregnant women are not supposed to use Botox procedures to beautify themselves and so do people carrying infections in their skin. Women consuming antibiotics and other related drugs must consult a doctor before involving in a Botox treatment.

Headache, infection, respiratory problems and nausea are a few side effects of Botox injections. Facial pain and muscle weakness also happens after a Botox treatment. Care has to be taken after such a treatment though these side effects are temporary.

Make sure you consult a qualified doctor, who is properly trained in this study of Botox, before attempting a treatment. Choose a sterile and professional environment for your treatment. Ask the doctor questions till you are totally educated about the treatment.
Botox is sometimes used with its alternatives which include injectable filler. Hylaform is one such filler which is made from hyaluronic acid found in the body. It helps to restore youthful appearance to the skin. Sculptra corrects sunken cheeks and eyes and also helps to thicken the skin and make it look healthier. Botox when used with its alternatives makes the skin beautiful.

About the Author

Ahmed haq is the author of this article on excessive sweating. Find more information about botox here.