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.

The release of acetylcholine, a chemical neurotransmitter that relays signals from the brain to different parts of the body, is blocked by Botox. This action reduces the mobility of muscles at the site of Botox injections. Repeated muscle movements are a primary cause of facial lines and wrinkles. The reduction of mobility of certain facial muscles thus reduces the incidence of these wrinkles and lines.

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.

The ability of a person to move muscles in certain facial regions is the basis for determining the spots where Botox is to be injected. An assessment to determine which parts should receive Botox injections is done, after which minuscule quantities of Botox are administered to the appropriate sites. The Botox administration procedure takes only 10 minutes in most cases.

The reduction of facial lines and wrinkles usually begin to occur within a week after receiving Botox injections. This effect lasts up to four months. Facial lines and wrinkles slowly re-emerge as the effect of Botox wears off. To maintain the effects achieved with the treatments, Botox injections need to be repeated every four months. With repeated treatments, the effects of Botox will last longer because of the resultant thinning of the muscles.

Botox treatments have several possible adverse effects in individuals. Nausea, squint/double vision, twitching of the eye, facial pain, redness at the injection site, muscle weakness, headaches, flu-like symptoms, and temporary eyelid droop may result from receiving Botox injections. Not all who undergo Botox treatments experience adverse effects; most do not go through any of these possible side effects at all.

An individual’s suitability for cosmetic Botox treatment is first established through a screening process. This is because there are conditions that preclude the use of Botox. Neurological conditions, infection at the site where Botox injections are to be administered, allergy to any component of Botox, and pregnancy are all contraindications. The general physical condition of the individual is also taken into consideration, along with any medication currently being administered to the individual.

For those who can not have the option of getting Botox injections, alternative methods for minimizing wrinkles and lines are available. These methods are, among others, AHA (alpha hydroxyl acids) treatment, chemical peeling, collagen injections, dermabrasion, laser resurfacing, and fat implants. A medical professional can help select the best choice from these options.