Botox Helps You Put Your Best Face Forward

Like millions of Americans, you might have severe wrinkles or frown lines on your face and forehead that you’d like to see disappear. For many people, the answer lies in BOTOX® injections, a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that temporarily improves the appearance of facial wrinkles.

According to Forbes.com, more than 2.4 million BOTOX treatments were administered in 2008, making it one of the most popular cosmetic procedures last year. BOTOX is increasingly popular due to its relative affordability–around $250-$500 per treatment–compared to surgical procedures such as facelifts, which can cost more than $6,000. With most treatments only taking 30 minutes, BOTOX has become a quick-and-easy solution for many with problem wrinkles.

What is Cosmetic BOTOX?

BOTOX is a commercial name for Botulinum toxin type A, a common medication and neurotoxin historically used to treat muscle spasms. In the last ten years, BOTOX has been used cosmetically to reduce the appearance of frown lines and wrinkles in the face. This nonsurgical procedure is administered by injection and works by preventing the muscles in the face from tightening.

How is BOTOX Administered?
Cosmetic BOTOX is injected in minute doses directly into the facial muscles, most commonly in the forehead, and is administered by a medical professional. BOTOX treatments only take around 30 minutes and the effects usually last around four to six months, after which the patient’s muscle will return to normal and wrinkles will start to reappear.

Who Uses BOTOX?
Anyone between the ages of 18 and 65 can receive BOTOX injections, though most are in the 35-50 age group. While women are the most frequent recipients of BOTOX, almost 300,000 American men have BOTOX treatments, according to the Times Online.

Is BOTOX Safe?
Cosmetic BOTOX was approved by the FDA in 2002 for adults between the ages of 18-65. Botox should be administered by a medical professional. Some people may experience side effects such as droopy eyelids, flu-like symptoms, headache, or upset stomach.