Botox: Everything You Need to Know

You have probably heard about Botox and that it's used to fill in your wrinkles, but it has many other uses as well. Botox can be used for several medical purposes, including for migraines, excessive perspiration, and even for crossed eyes. If you are considering getting Botox for cosmetic purposes, read on for further information about Botox for cosmetic purposes, including what all it can treat and side effects. 

What Can Botox Treat?

Botox can be used to treat minor wrinkles and deeper wrinkles on the face. Wrinkles can form with age and throughout your lifetime around the mouth, eyes, forehead, and other areas of the face. Wrinkles form when the skin begins to breakdown and lose elasticity. These wrinkles can make you feel much older than you are. Wrinkles can also make you feel self-conscious about yourself and your skin. Getting Botox can help improve your self-esteem, in addition to giving you a more youthful look. 

How Does Botox Work?

Botox is made up of a bacteria called Botulinum toxin. It is injected in the skin around the wrinkles that are being targeted. The injections paralyze the muscles in the face and make them stiff. This stiffness can last a couple of days but loosens a bit so you don't have too much stiffness in your face. Botox can last for up to 12 months for some. These injections can help to smooth out the wrinkles in the face, especially minor wrinkles. Deeper wrinkles may need more frequent treatments.

What Are the Side Effects of Botox?

Botox paralyzes the muscle in the face, so you may not be able to move much of your face for a couple of days. You may also have some redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites. You may not feel well after getting the injections, including having an upset stomach or just feeling very tired afterward. Another side effect could be numbness or headaches after the injections.

If you are considering Botox injections for your wrinkles, talk to your dermatologist. Also discuss ways to prevent future wrinkles with your dermatologist, such as wearing sunscreen daily, and staying out of the sun as much as possible. Drinking plenty of water, eating a healthy diet, getting enough exercise, and avoiding stress as much as possible can also help prevent wrinkles. Talk to your dermatologist about Botox treatments and get rid of those wrinkles you already have.


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