Botox is an established effective way for reducing the number of wrinkles and fine lines that are part of ageing. This botulinum toxin which is poisonous otherwise, is now being used safely in a number of cosmetic procedures. It works by deactivating the nerves which control the contraction of certain facial muscles that produce wrinkles on our face. This helps to reduce or soften the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. If you are a Botox virgin or are still contemplating getting one done, here are certain things you should know before you take the prick.

What exactly is Botox?

Botox is a nerve toxin which causes relaxation of the nerves underneath the skin.This prevents contraction of the underlying innervated muscles. This is an FDA approved procedure where doctors usually restrict pricking only to the upper third of the face. This procedure is mainly used to treat frown lines , crow feet and occasionally wrinkles due to photo damage. 

Who can opt for it?

Botox injections can be given to temporarily reduce fine lines and wrinkles. This injection is mostly restricted to upper part of face. It can also be used for filling up lips. Botox injections are also used to control underarm sweating. Botox injections are also administered for muscle spasm of neck, spasms of upper limb and lower limbs. Overactive bladder along with incontinence of bladder is also treated with botox.

Beware!

Never take injections of Botox in areas where an infection is present.Pregnant women ,lactating mothers and people with neurodegenerative disorders should not take these injections.

Botox procedure

This takes only couple of minutes with no anaesthesia and is called the ‘lunch hour’ procedure. This toxin is injected into the muscles with a fine needle producing hardly any pain.

Side Effects are pretty common

Bruising,headaches and migraines are temporary and common. Less than 1%population may suffer from droopy eyelid or eyebrow which will spontaneously heal within a few weeks.

A costly affair

Physicians charge either per unit of botox or by per area. Know the exact cost for the effects you desire and make sure you are getting results for what you are paying for. The number of units of botox required reduce with time.

Initially you may require 6 units of botox which can reduce to two units over a period of time. A Botox injection can last for a minimum of three months up to six months. Following this wrinkles begin to reappear. With constant botox muscles get trained to relax reducing wrinkles and fine lines. 

Before undergoing these injections ensure that you have spoken clearly to your cosmetologist about these injections and you are sure of what you want and can be achieved.

Get a qualified and experienced physician

There is a lot of difference in a good qualified doctor and just a medical professional staff. Choose a dermatologist or plastic surgeon who is board certified. Apart from this the physician you choose should have an experienced cosmetic practice and should have good knowledge regarding botox injections.