Botox: Your New Best Friend in the Fight Against Aging

Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin that is produced from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. It prevents the neural transmission of acetylcholine, causing muscle paralysis. It was originally found to help relieve strabismus, or crossed eyes, in humans. It has since been used to help with migraines, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), muscle spasticity, and of course fine wrinkles.

In regards to treating fine wrinkles, Botulinum toxin is injected into the superficial muscles in either the forehead, between the eyebrows, or next to the eyes, depending on the area of treatment. A very fine and short needle is used and a small pinch can sometimes be felt. The entire process takes less than five minutes. Immediately after the procedure, you may experience redness at the injection site. This should diminish within the hour and ice may help. Another common side effect is headaches, which don’t typically last more than one day. You shouldn’t plan on doing anything strenuous for the rest of the day or massaging the treated areas as this can cause migration of the toxin resulting in undesirable outcomes. Peak effect of the toxin typically takes 10-14 days and can last up to 12 weeks.

You should not get Botulinum toxin if you have experienced a previous reaction, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have any muscle or nerve conditions.

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Sources

Nizam, P.K. and Nigam, A. (2010). Botulinum Toxin. Indian Journal of Dermatology, 55(1), 8-14. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2856357/