Just like the names Kleenex and Q-Tip, somehow Botox has become an infamous brand name to the average American consumer. What makes it so appealing to us? Perhaps, it is the inner celebrity star in us that becomes attracted to the idea of Botox—the idea of paying money to look young and fabulous. Take a couple minutes to learn more about this brand name treatment and what it can really do.

Botox (Botulinum Toxin Type A) is indeed a brand name of a purified neurotoxin complex produced by bacterium.  There are many uses for this toxin including relieving symptoms of dystonia (uncontrollable tightening of the neck muscles), strabismus (an eye muscle problem), blepharospasm (uncontrollable tightening of the eyelid muscles), upper limb spasticity (increased muscle stiffness in joints), and many other conditions. However, the cosmetic use for Botox nowadays is to kill wrinkles.

When Botox in injected, it blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles, making it unable to contract, which causes the wrinkles to relax and soften. It is most often used on the forehead area, lines around the eye known as crow’s feet,

The procedure only takes a few minutes and does not require anesthesia. Botox is injected with a fine needle and has very little discomfort. It takes about 3-5 days to take full effect and generally lasts 4-6 months. [Read more...]