WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BOTOX What is Botox? Botox is a drug that weakens or paralyzes muscle. In small doses, it can reduce skin wrinkles and help treat some muscle conditions.
shorten.
Botox injections prevent the release of acetylcholine, which stops muscle cells from contracting. The toxin reduces abnormal muscle contraction, allowing the muscles to Botox is a protein made from botulinum become less stiff. toxin that the bacterium Clostridium botulinum produces. Botox is a toxin, but Uses in Cosmetic when people use it correctly and in small The primary use of Botox is reducing the doses, it has a number of medical and appearance of facial wrinkles. cosmetic uses. The effects of Botox are temporary, lasting 3–12 months, depending on the treatments. Botox injections are probably best known for Common facial areas people use Botox on reducing skin wrinkles. Botox can also help include: treat crossed eyes, eyelid spasms, excessive • Frown lines, also called glabellar lines sweating, and some bladder disorders. or “elevens” • Wrinkles around the eyes, known as How does it work? crow’s feet Botox is a neurotoxin. These substances • Horizontal creases in the forehead target the nervous system, disrupting the • Lines at the corners of the mouth nerve signaling processes that stimulate muscle contraction. This is how the drug Risks and side effects causes temporary muscle paralysis. People generally tolerate Botox injections well, and side effects are not common. In order for muscles to contract, nerves Along with its intended effects, botulinum release a chemical messenger called toxin may cause some unwanted effects. acetylcholine at the junction where the nerve These can include: endings meet muscle cells. Acetylcholine • Mild pain, swelling, or bruising around attaches to receptors on the muscle cells the injection site and causes the muscle cells to contract or • Flu-like symptoms
AESTHETIC
• • • • • •
A headache An upset stomach Temporary eyelid drooping Numbness Malaise, or feeling generally unwell Temporary unwanted weakness or paralysis in nearby muscles If you want to get a botox, it is important for you to discuss and talk to your Certified Aesthetic Doctor.
by Dr Katalina Katalina Aesthetic & Wellness
