Beauty

BOTOX OR NOT TO BOTOX

In order to make an informed decision whether or not to have Botox treatments, here is some useful information regarding this product. In 2002, the FDA approved Botox for use in treating facial wrinkles of the forehead. Prior to this, it was only used to treat eye disorders.

What is Botox? Botox is a natural protein produced by the bacterium; clostridium botulinum. Botox binds to the nerve endings and prevents the release of chemical transmitters that activate muscles and certain sweat glands. Basically, “it takes the phone off the hook” and does not allow the signal to get through to contract muscles.

After puberty, the skin slowly starts the aging process. The collagen layers of the skin start to breakdown. As a result, we begin losing muscle tone and the skin begins losing its elasticity. With this reduction in muscle tone and elasticity, the skin structure begins to sag, resulting in wrinkles. Excess sun exposure and lack of proper moisturizers or sunscreen along with heredity and the overuse of facial muscles accelerates this process. An injection of Botox smoothes out the horizontal lines of the forehead, the glabellas or frown lines and “crow’s feet” and results in the relaxation of the muscles, improvement in appearance and tightening of the area. There are minimal side effects. Slight to moderate bruising, some numbness to the forehead and headache are some of the common complaints by patients. The benefits of Botox far outweigh the discomfort. A thorough discussion with your dermatologist prior to treatment is highly recommended to have a full understanding of the realistic expectations of Botox.

Want to read past Beauty Articles? Click Here