Botox: What is it? How does it work? Is it safe?

I have very little doubt that most of you heard of Botox, that preparation which promises to erase wrinkles and give us the illusion to slow down the visible signs of the aging process.

The active ingredient of Botox (a trade name by manufacturer Allergan) is derived from the botulinum toxin, a substance produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacteria. Actually this bacteria produces various toxins, generally classified from type-A to type-F). It’s the bacteria responsible for botulism a potentially deadly condition.

The type A toxin has been used for several years to treat conditions such as strabismus (cross-eyes), and type B toxin has helped treat cases of dystonia (involuntary muscular spasms).

In April 2002, the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved Botox (botulinum toxin type A) for cosmetic use.

How does it work?

If someone told you that by getting a Botox treatment you’re subjecting yourself to a potentially fatal bacteria, that someone would not be completely wrong. But don’t panic….I’m about to give you the essential facts on how the toxin works.

Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contractions; it “tells” your muscles to contract. The botulinum toxins attach themselves to nerve endings and prevent acetylcholine to be released. If you inject the area around your eyes with this toxin, the muscles in that zone cannot contract because they’re paralyzed. If there is no movement, there is no wrinkling, right?

The treatments are generally safe, but do make sure you’re in experienced, capable hands.

I read of places that will train dentists to give the injections, and I’m not sure how wise that is… Also, you may have read something about a case where four people in Florida ended up with botulism following facial injections. This happened because the product used was unlicensed AND contained high concentrations of the toxins. These people experienced progressive weakness, swallowing difficulties, and face and neck muscles abnormalities. All of them recovered after lengthy hospital stays.

The injections only take a few minutes to administer. Following treatment, the area should not be touched or rubbed for at least two or three hours. The effects may take up to one week to become visible, and are not permanent , generally lasting from 2 to 4 months.

Though some people may find the cost of a single injection quite reasonable, keep in mind the temporary effects. Also, we have no idea of the risks, if any, of repeated injections.

Possible side effects following treatment may include bruising, headache, temporary facial pain, ptosis (drooping eyelid), and flu-like symptoms.

I have provided you with the essential information about this treatment for aging skin. It’s not my place or intention to give it the thumbs up or thumbs down. You have the facts. The decision is totally up to you.

One more thing of interest here… Preliminary studies indicate that Botox may be an effective treatment for arthritis-related joint pains. You can find out more about it by contacting the American College of Rheumatology.

Botox and skin care