Botox is polarising – people love it or hate it. With its hashtag on Instagram boasting close to 1.3 million posts, it’s very much a hot issue.
But there is no denying the changes it can make for some people’s lives and we’re not just talking about knocking back the clock a few years. It can help with;
- TEETH GRINDING
- FACIAL SYMMETRY/BELL’S PALSY
- EXCESSIVE SWEATING
- MIGRAINES/TENSION HEADACHES
- RSI (REPETITIVE STRESS INJURY)
- BROW LIFTING AND MOUTH CORNER LIFTING
So Botox can be pretty amazing and the range of applications for Botox will continue to surprise and reward us.
The Intriguing History of Botox
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Botox, or botulinum toxin, has a fascinating history which dates back to the 19th century. Originally discovered by Dr. Emile Pierre van Ermengem in 1897, it was first identified in spoiled sausages. Fast forward to the 1950s, Dr. Edward J. Schantz and his team successfully purified botulinum toxin type A into crystalline form, paving the way for its modern medical use. The first therapeutic applications of botox were for strabismus (crossed eyes) and blepharospasm (uncontrolled blinking), demonstrating its medical potential. It was not until 2002 that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Botox for cosmetic use, transforming the beauty industry forever.
The Science Behind Botox
Botox works by blocking the signals from nerves to muscles, preventing muscle contraction and resulting in a softened and relaxed appearance. It achieves this by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for triggering muscle contractions. When used in small, targeted doses, botox can effectively smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, offering a non-invasive alternative to surgical procedures.
Understanding Botox Treatments
The Process of Botox Injections
The botox procedure is straightforward and minimally invasive, typically taking less than 20 minutes. Botox is injected into specific muscles using a fine needle, causing minimal discomfort. The number of injections needed will depend on the individual’s facial features and the extent of their wrinkles.
Safety and Side Effects of Botox Treatments
Botox treatments are generally safe, with side effects being rare. Possible side effects include pain at the injection site, headache, flu-like symptoms, and temporary eyelid drooping. Serious side effects are extremely rare but can include difficulty swallowing, speaking, or breathing.
Botox: Beyond Cosmetic Enhancements
Although best known for its cosmetic applications, botox also has numerous medical uses. These include the treatment of excessive sweating, migraines, muscle spasms and certain bladder disorders.
Who is a Good Candidate for Botox Treatments?
Botox is suitable for individuals in good health and with realistic expectations about the results. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with wrinkles or fine lines that they wish to reduce. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with neuromuscular diseases, or those allergic to botulinum toxin.
Cost of Botox Treatments
The cost of botox treatments varies depending on the number of injections needed and the practitioner’s experience. On average, you can expect to pay between £200 and £350 per session in the UK. It’s important to note that the effects of Botox are temporary, typically lasting three to four months, so regular treatments are necessary to maintain the results.
Book a consultation now to find out how we can make Botox work for you. Call us at 01603 360360 or email info@laserdocs.co.uk