Unfortunately, along with age comes fine lines and wrinkles. Luckily, we have Botox® to restore a youthful appearance, and soften fine lines and wrinkles.
Read on to learn more about Botox® -and if you might be a good candidate for this treatment.
Understanding Botox®
Botox® is a well-known injectable neuromodulator produced by Allergan. It is a form of botulinum toxin that relaxes the facial muscles momentarily (for about 3-4 months) and minimizes the appearance of dynamic wrinkles brought on by frequent muscle activity.
Although Botox® was initially developed to treat medical problems such as cerebral palsy, it’s also FDA-approved to address signs of aging such as crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead lines. It can also help soften and smooth neck bands, chin wrinkles, and lip lines.
Beyond its cosmetic uses, Botox® injections can also treat:
- Hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating
- Strabismus or lazy eye
- Urinary incontinence
- Blepharospasm or chronic eyelid twitching
- Neck spasms or cervical dystonia
- Chronic migraines
- Vaginismus
- Other types of muscle spasms
How Botox® Injections Work
Muscle relaxants like Botox® ultimately target the nervous system by disrupting the nerve signaling processes and reducing muscle contractions. By blocking signals from the nerves to the muscles, the muscles aren’t able to contract, which results in a softer appearance of wrinkles. In addition, Botox® also helps lift the corners of the mouth.
When is the Ideal Age for Receiving Botox®?
Botox® injections are approved for people 18 years and older.
Most patients in their 40’s get Botox® to reduce their wrinkles, but there are also patients who start getting Botox® injections in their 20’s and 30’s to prevent any fine lines from forming. This is called a preventative Botox® treatment.
Am I A Good Candidate?
You’re a good candidate for Botox® injections if you:
- want to lessen the look of mild to severe crow’s feet, wrinkles, and creases on your face and neck;
- are aware of the limitations of Botox® and set reasonable goals for what it can accomplish;
- are not breastfeeding or pregnant and are in generally good health.
However, it would be best to avoid this treatment if you:
- have a history of hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to products containing botulinum toxin;
- currently have an open wound or infection at the injection site;
- suffer from a neuromuscular condition (like multiple sclerosis or myasthenia gravis).
It’s also best to inform your injector about any prescribed medications, over-the-counter drugs, and nutritional supplements you are taking, as well as your complete medical history for them to make an accurate assessment and customized treatment plan.
Botox® is an incredibly safe and effective treatment. It’s a quick, non-invasive process and can improve your appearance.
At Metro Medspa, our aesthetic nurse practitioners have helped countless clients in St. Louis, MO, get the best possible results with Botox®. Call now and schedule an appointment with us!
