Botox is the commercial trade name for botulinum toxin A, an injectable, non-surgical treatment used to reduce the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles. Proven to be generally safe, it can be administered via injections to individuals from 18 to 65 years of age. The popularity of Botox injections continues to increase as more people opt to undergo Botox treatment.

Botox injections work by blocking the release of acetylcholine (a chemical neurotransmitter that relays messages from the brain to various parts of the body) between the nerve endings and muscle fibres at the injection site, thereby rendering the muscles of the targeted area unable to contract. Since wrinkles are caused primarily by repetitive movements of the muscles, the muscles’ inability to contract reduces the incidence of wrinkles.

Botox injections can be administered by any licensed healthcare provider. However, it is best to have it done by a cosmetic procedure specialist such as a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon. Choosing a medical practitioner who has expert knowledge of facial anatomy and good experience in administering Botox will ensure that you get the best possible results from the treatments.

Prior to treatments, an assessment is made to determine the spots where medication is to be applied. Botox injections are then administered in minute quantities to the muscles of these predetermined regions. The injection spots are selected based on the individual’s ability to move the muscles at a particular area. A Botox treatment session typically lasts for about 10 minutes.

The wrinkle- and line-reduction effects of Botox injections last up to 4 months. The improvements that become visible within a week of undergoing Botox treatment slowly disappear as the effects of Botox also wear off. Botox treatments need to be repeated every four months to maintain the good results. As treatments are repeated, thinning of the muscles occur. This will make the effects of Botox last longer.

Like all other medications, Botox injections have possible side effects. These include, but are not limited to, headache, flu-like symptoms, temporary eyelid droop, nausea, squint/double vision, twitching of the eye, facial pain, redness at the injection site, and muscle weakness. Note that not everyone will suffer from these side effects. Majority of those having Botox injections do not experience any at all.

The suitability of Botox treatment must be established first. Any medication being taken and the general physical condition are taken into consideration before the administration of Botox injections. There are also contraindications, such as allergy to any of the ingredients of Botox, infection at any proposed injection site, neurological disorders, and pregnancy, which rule out Botox treatments as an option.

Collagen injections, dermabrasion, laser resurfacing, fat implants, AHA (alpha hydroxy acids) treatments, and chemical peeling are available to those for whom Botox injections are not a suitable option. These methods are also known to be effective in reducing facial lines and wrinkles. Ask a doctor to help you make the right choice.

Tags: Anti Ageing