Wrinkling is a natural part of aging. Over time, the skin loses elasticity, and facial motions and gravity can cause wrinkling. Because these wrinkles can make you appear older or--even worse--older than you are, you may be looking for treatments. Since 2002, Botox Cosmetic, also known simply as Botox, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat and improve the appearance of wrinkles.
History
Botox Cosmetic is a form of botulinum toxin. While this bacteria is known as the bacteria that causes botulism, a severe disease associated with food poisoning, scientists discovered when the toxin was injected into the body, it could cause reduce spasms in facial muscles. In December 1989, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the use of Botox as a means to reduce facial spasms in patients with strabismus or hemifacial spasm disorders. Botox was then further developed for its current most popular use as a cosmetic wrinkle reducer.
Function
Botox is delivered through tiny injections to facial wrinkles. Botox then works to relax the facial muscles underneath the wrinkles, making the wrinkle appear significantly less noticeable. A physician can pinpoint the exact areas of wrinkling and the muscles underneath that should be injected. The effect may not be immediate, as it may take the Botox a full four days to relax the muscles, according to the University of Michigan Health System. The procedure typically takes 10 to 15 minutes and lasts as long as four months, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Types
Botox can treat a variety of wrinkles on the face, including frown lines noticeable between the eyebrows and wrinkles on the edge of the nose. Forehead creases as well as crow's feet on the sides of the eyes also can be treated with Botox. It's important to note that smile lines are not indicated for treatment with Botox as these do not have underlying muscles affecting these wrinkles.
Considerations
While Botox is associated with few negative side effects, it has been associated with dry mouth. For this reason, drink plenty of water or suck on hard candy following Botox treatment. Other side effects associated with Botox include bruising and redness at the injection site, a dropping eyelid, problem stomach or headache. While the effects may be less noticeable after four months, you should space Botox treatments out at least six months apart, as the body can form antibodies to the toxin, which may make subsequent treatments less effective.
Expert Insight
According to the Botox Cosmetic Web site, more than 11.8 million cosmetics procedures were administered between 2002 and 2008. However, it is not recommended for those older than 65. Doctors also recommend you refrain from rubbing or massaging the area until at least six hours after treatment to avoid allowing the toxin to migrate to other areas of the face, which could result in facial drooping.
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