Its popularity is due, in part, to the fact that it is a low risk procedure that has undergone extensive research. Over 11 million Americans have had Botox injections since it was approved for cosmetic use in 2002. Additionally, many people find that Botox helps them find relief from migraines, muscular disorders, and some bladder and bowel disorders. There are also a plethora of emerging studies that suggest Botox may be useful in aiding psychological conditions such as depression.

The various applications of Botox can be explained by the strength of the plant that the injection is derived from. A naturally occurring organism, Clostridium botulinum (botulinum for short), works to reduce fine lines and wrinkles on the face by paralyzing the facial muscles via injection. This paralysis occurs when the injected botulinum blocks the muscle from releasing the chemical signal that tells the facial muscle to contract. By blocking this signal, the face remains smooth and regains a more youthful appearance.

So, how exactly does it work again?

Although botulinum is toxic in high concentrations, the concentrations administered in Botox injections are extremely safe. Botox injections have been used to treat a variety of conditions and the organism has been extensively studied. Predominantly used to restore a youthful and vibrant appearance to the face by reducing fine lines and wrinkles, Botox is also a popular procedure for therapeutic applications, some of which include:

• Severe neck and shoulder muscle spasms
• Eyelid spasms
• Urinary incontinence
• Crossed eyes

Before any Botox procedure, the botulinum powder is diluted into saline at injectable levels, and it is then injected into the desired site. There is no recovery time or downtime needed for patients following the procedure, once the appointment is over, patients can resume activities as normal. This alone makes it easy to see why millions of Botox procedures are now being performed every year. It’s incredibly uncomplicated with huge benefits.

Maintaining your new look

The effect of treatment lasts anywhere between three to six months, then it will begin to wear off. However, over time and with multiple treatments, the facial muscles will actually shrink in response to the administered treatments, meaning that even when the effects of Botox begin to wear off, the condition you originally treated is not as pronounced!