The cosmetic form of botulinum toxin, often referred to by its product name BOTOX Cosmetic is a popular non-surgical injection that temporarily reduces or eliminates frown lines, forehead creases, crows feet near the eyes and thick bands in the neck. The toxin blocks the nerve impulses, temporarily paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkles while giving the skin a smoother, more refreshed appearance.
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about BOTOX Cosmetic:
BOTOX Cosmetic works by blocking signals from the nerves to the muscles. The injected muscles can no longer contract, which causes the wrinkles to relax and soften. It is most often used on forehead lines, crow's feet (lines around the eye) and frown lines. Wrinkles caused by sun damage and gravity will not respond to BOTOX Cosmetic. Wrinkles which are present in the skin before active contraction of muscles will not be removed with BOTOX Cosmetic. 
The procedure takes only a few minutes. BOTOX Cosmetic is injected with a fine needle into very specific muscles. It generally takes three to seven days to take full effect and it is best to avoid alcohol and green tea one week prior to receiving an injection. Aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications should be stopped two weeks before treatment as well in order to reduce bruising. 
The effects from BOTOX Cosmetic can last four to six months. As muscle action gradually returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to re-appear and wrinkles need to be re-treated. The lines and wrinkles often appear less severe with time because the muscles are being trained to relax. 
Temporary bruising is the most common side effect. Headaches, which resolve in 24-48 hours, can occur, but this is rare. This development is usually caused by migration of the BOTOX Cosmetic and for this reason you should not rub the treated area for 12 hours after treatment, nor should you lie down for three to four hours post treatment. 
Although the results are visible, treatment with BOTOX Cosmetic should not radically change your facial appearance. The muscle activity that causes frown lines between the brows is simply reduced, so you are still able to frown or look surprised without the wrinkles and creases between your brows. 
If you do not continue treatments, the areas which you treated will gradually look like they did before treatment. 
Everyone’s level of sensitivity is different, but the treatment takes only about 10 minutes. After the treatment it is important not to rub the area for 12 hours and you should avoid lying down for three to four hours so that the BOTOX Cosmetic will not migrate to other areas. Because the procedure is so quick and non-invasive you can be back to business as usual quickly. *BOTOX® is a registered trademark of Allergan, Inc. |
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