Botox is one of the world’s most popular cosmetic products. In fact, for many people, it is the perfect solution within the cosmetic industry. However, as much as Botox is known, few people really understand the ins and outs of Botox injections. They don’t truly know what it is, how it works, what its benefits are, and what its reported side effects are. What they do know often comes from the media (Botox is poison! Botox freezes your face!) and is highly inaccurate. Let’s take a look at a definitive guide about what Botox is and whether it is right for you.
What Is Botox?
Botox is a medicine that is only available on prescription because it is indeed a poison. It is injected straight into the muscles, stopping them from producing fine to deep wrinkles. The poison stops the neurotransmitters between the muscles and the nerves from transmitting, thereby relaxing the muscles and smoothing out wrinkles.
Botox Is Medicine
What few people know is that Botox is also a type of medication. Because it stops muscle activity, it is also used on a range of other conditions. In fact, this is what it was first approved for. It is used for cervical dystonia, which is a painful condition in which the neck spasms, making it twitch. It can also be used for other forms of spasms and twitches, for urinary incontinence, for hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), and chronic migraines.
Botox Is a Cosmetic Product
Most of us know Botox for its cosmetic properties. Specifically, it is used in the treatment of the following signs of aging:
- A bumpy chin.
- Vertical lip lines.
- Bunny lines.
- Crow’s feet.
- Horizontal forehead lines.
- Frown lines.
Some people also have Botox in their neck, reducing the appearance of muscular cords and horizontal lines.
How Is it Administered?
Botox is injected into the muscles that are being addressed. It should only be completed by a medical professional who is trained in using Botox. Usually, three treatments a year are needed in order to maintain the appearance.
How Long Does it Take to Notice the Effects?
There are a number of factors that will determine how long it takes for the full effects to be visible. However, most people see the full results between seven and 10 days after having had the procedure.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Yes, there are, because Botox is a medical procedure and all medical procedures have the potential for side effects. With Botox, they include:
- Redness and soreness around the injection site.
- Headaches
- Drooping of the face.
- A frozen face.
The latter two side effects will only happen if the procedure is not properly completed. This could happen, for instance, if you were to attend a Botox party (NEVER attend a Botox party), or if you have found an unscrupulous physician who is willing to inject you with more Botox than necessary. The other two side effects usually go within a few days.
