One of the most popular and fastest growing cosmetic procedures available today is Botox injection. Used for the temporary removal or reducing of facial wrinkles caused by muscles that is used frequently. These wrinkles are formed from repetitive use of facial muscles such as when we laugh or frown. As a result humans form crows feet around their eyes, frown lines on their forehead and laugh lines around the mouth. As we age these lines or wrinkles become more prominent. As a temporary fix, Botox can effectively reduce and smooth these facial wrinkles



Botox is in a family of drugs called neurotoxins and it is derived from a protein of the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Actually it is botulism, a severe form of food poisoning, in the Botox form it is purified. The Botulinum toxin was discovered in the sixties, but it was not until seventies that scientist realized the toxin had attributes that could bring relief to people who suffered from neurological disorders such eye ticks and droopy eyelids, as well as other muscular disorders.

Eventually scientist and doctors realized that the toxin had cosmetic benefits as well. Botox can be toxic if taken in substantial doses since it is a poison that relaxes or paralyzes nerve endings in the muscles of the face. Fortunately, diluted doses are all that is required for the desired effect of reducing wrinkles and lines.

Botox does have side effects with the most common being a result of the injection itself. Some patients report discoloration where the injection was applied with some Botox patients reporting lesions on the white part of the eyes. Drooping of the eyelids have been reported to occur with most cases being temporary and occurring right after the injection is administered, with this side effect only being temporary. Another side effect occurs when unqualified people that have not been certified or trained in proper Botox procedures give injections. Injections from these unqualified people should be avoided as these procedures can result in discomfort and pain, bleeding or bruising and infections are possible.

People with infections or any kind of skin disorder or condition should avoid having Botox injections and all injections should be in a sterile location. Consulting your doctor before having a Botox injection is highly recommended. Allergic reactions to Botox are possible, but a visit to your doctor and his counsel should be enough to decide if you should receive a Botox injection. Certain medications can increase the side effects of Botox treatment including antibiotics. Women who are pregnant should also avoid the treatment.

Some things should be considered in preparation of receiving Botox treatments. After the treatment there will be, in some cases, bruising and swelling for people with sensitive skin. Applying ice to the treated area with an ice pack or compress will help reduce the swelling. People that are handy with makeup application can cover some of the bruising although the swelling will be difficult to hide. Planning ahead is always best before having an injection. Pain medication bought from the local drug store can help reduce discomfort and pain as you recuperate.

Botox is a viable option for people that would rather avoid plastic or cosmetic surgery. It should be emphasized that the procedure is only temporary and future procedures will be needed to maintain a youthful appearance and can become a burden for people on a tight budget.