1: What is Botox and How Does it Work?

This is the first installment of 12 Things You Need to Know About Botox and Aesthetics.

 

Botox (BOTOX® Cosmetic onabotulinumtoxin A) is a prescription medicine used to reduce wrinkles. It’s derived from a protein produced by bacteria. In high concentrations, this protein can be toxic – you may have heard of the Botulinum toxin, which is how “Botox” got its name. Fortunately, over 20 years ago, scientists found that small, diluted amounts of Botox could be safely administered without toxic effects.

Botox works by blocking communication between your nerve endings and muscles, thus reducing muscle contractions. Fewer muscle contractions means your wrinkles will relax, soften and smooth out.

Because Botox works with your muscles, it is especially effective on wrinkles caused by repeated movement of muscles. These so-called “dynamic” wrinkles include:

• Frown lines between the eyebrows
• Crow’s feet
• Horizontal forehead lines

Dynamic wrinkles are very common. Your wrinkles may have been caused by years of squinting, frowning or even concentrating. And, if you live in Florida, the effects have probably been exaggerated by your exposure to the sun.

Botox has become popular because it’s really good at reducing these types of wrinkles – even when they’re moderate to severe.

As you age, your wrinkles will continue to increase in number and deepen in the skin. They can make you look angry, tired or sad – even when you’re not feeling that way. If you, like most people, want to look your best, it’s time to consider getting a Botox treatment. It’s safe, effective and easy!

For more information about our aesthetic services simply call (239) 939-3456. Better yet, visit the Aesthetic Center, a division of Eye Centers of Florida, to learn more about Botox and other fillers like Restylane® and Juvéderm XC.

-Karyl