Botox uses extend beyond the temporary wrinkle erasure. While this cosmetic application is probably the most popular use of Botox, this toxin does more than just prevent facial lines from forming or deepening.
Botox
The term "Botox" is actually a brand name for botulinum toxin type A. The word botulinum sounds similar to the word botulism for a good reason. Botox is created by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium, the same bacterium that creates the serious condition botulism. However, botulinum toxin type A is a very low concentration of the purified and diluted toxin.
What does Botox do?
Botox relaxes muscles by partially or completely paralyzing them at the injection site. The Botox blocks nerve impulses to the muscle, keeping the area tension free and thus softening any wrinkles.
These Botox relaxed muscles make wrinkles appear softer or almost invisible. This does mean that the muscle is temporarily paralyzed, though. There may not be wrinkles on your forehead, but you also cannot move your forehead much until the Botox treatment fades away. This is part of the reason Botox is only useful in certain facial areas.
What is Botox used for?
Botox is usually used for the temporary removal of wrinkles on the face. Because it basically paralyzes the muscles, there are certain areas of the face that should and should not be treated. Forehead muscles and the bridge of the nose are fine to freeze, but you need the movement around active muscles, such as the area around your mouth.
Botox can be used for relieving constant pain due to headaches, backaches and general muscle aches. The injections are also used in treatments to reduce excessive sweating and muscle spasms. It is also used for plumping and smoothing lines in lips.
How is Botox administered?
Botox is injected in small doses over a targeted area. The treatments are rather quick, usually taking only 10 to 15 minutes. The results can last up to four months, depending on the person and what the injections are being used to treat. If used as a wrinkle filler, the lines will slowly re-appear as the Botox breaks down towards the end of three or four months.
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