Botox is used to erase the effect of time i.e. wrinkles. It is a toxin that relaxes the muscles to provide a fine appearance erasing the obvious lines around the face area. It is used in the form of injection directly on the muscles that causes muscle paralysis.

Botox is a name for botulinum toxin A which is a form of food poisoning. This toxin when injected blocks the transmission of acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter of signals telling muscles to relax or tense, from the nerves to the muscles. When the muscles paralyze they can no longer tense up and relax reducing the appearance of lines and softening the skin.

What it is Used for?

Botox is a very popular cosmetic treatment now specially amongst women. It can greatly reduce the signs of aging amongst women. Botox injections can be used for filling in the wrinkles, erasing frown lines, correct crossed eyes and other deformities in various parts of the body and can also be used for purposes such as controlling excessive sweating.

Who can have a Botox?

Anyone can have the Botox treatment from ages 16 and above. It is not suitable for people who have a neurological disease or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The physicians medically examine the person wanting to have a Botox treatment to find out any allergic reactions beforehand.

The Process

The procedure is simple and takes only a few minutes to complete. The areas needing the Botox treatment are identified and the Botox injections are injected on the specific muscles using narrow gauge needles. Use of alcohol and other anti-inflammatory drugs are to be avoided at least two weeks before the treatment. The treatment does not require any anesthesia. The treated areas are not to be rubbed for at least 12 hours. Also the patient is instructed not to lie down for at least 4 hours so that the toxins do not move into areas not required.

Result

The effects of Botox treatments are wrinkle free and smooth skin and it can last for up to six months. During this time the muscles stays in the state of paralysis and facial expressions are stagnant. Sometimes the Botox can show immediate result and sometime it can take a few days for the wrinkles and lines to disappear. Regular use of Botox treatments can make the lines less prominent because the muscles get used to the relaxed state. The treatments need to be repeated in every four to six months.

Side Effects & Complications

There are some common side effects like swelling and bruising which are temporary and can finish up in a day or two. Other side effects can include headache, infection, nausea, facial pain, respiratory problem, muscle weakness and flu like symptoms. Intense complications are rare with Botox but sometimes excessive amount of injections can cause droopy eyelids which are because of the toxins reaching the undesired areas. That is why too much movement of face and rubbing is to be avoided after the treatment.

Cost

Botox is not a very expensive treatment. It can take around $17 to $500 and in some cases around $1000 depending on the amount of treatment required.