BOTOX® Cosmetic is the most popular cosmetic procedure in the United States. If you’re considering Botox injections, you may be interested to learn some little-known facts about it first.
Botox injections take less than 15 minutes.
With such a quick treatment time and no recovery needed, it’s possible to fit Botox injections into even the busiest schedule. Stop in on your way to work, during your lunch break, or while waiting for the kids to finish their piano lesson. The scheduling possibilities are endless.
More men are getting Botox than ever before.
Botox was once aimed primarily at women, but men are increasingly interested in enjoying the benefits of a smoother, younger-looking face. Since 2000, the number of men receiving injections has increased by well over 300 percent.
Many cite competition in the workplace as a motivating factor to improve their appearance. Others say their significant other urged them to get injections. For others, their wife’s or girlfriend’s results encouraged them to seek Botox treatment themselves.
Botox is older than you think.
Because of Botox injections’ modern appeal, most people are unaware that its primary ingredient has been known for over 200 years. Dr. Justinus Kerner is credited with discovering the botulinum toxin in the 1820s, the key component that makes Botox such an effective muscle relaxant.
Botox is safe and effective.
Knowing that Botox is made from a bacterial toxin may alarm you at first. However, thanks to the long history and extensive research Botox has undergone, it’s one of the safest cosmetic procedures available today. It has a success rate of well over 99 percent and treats a surprising range of cosmetic and medical ailments.
The cosmetic applications of Botox weren’t realized until the 1990s.
Botox’s original uses included treating strabismus (imbalanced eye muscles), diplopia (double vision), and muscle spasms. Botox’s ability to prevent muscle contractions led to the realization that patients’ wrinkles became less pronounced following treatment for their muscle conditions. Botox quickly gained traction as a cosmetic procedure in the 90s and was FDA approved in 2002.
Botox is long-lasting.
The effects of a single injection can last for three to four months. Making regular visits to the dermatologist is the best way to maintain your youthful look. Luckily, Botox is an affordable, minimally invasive process that feels like nothing more than a pinprick.
Botox can treat excessive sweating.
For millions of people with hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), Botox is the ideal treatment option. Injections every few months can calm overactive sweat glands, eliminating the embarrassment of sweaty underarms.
Botox doesn’t treat sun-damaged skin.
The purpose of Botox is to prevent muscle contractions around the eyes that cause frown lines and crow’s feet. Treatment affects the muscles under the skin. If you also want to improve your skin’s pigment or texture, consider a laser procedure.
Ready to try Botox for yourself? Do you still have questions about the cosmetic and medical applications? Call 847-392-5440 to schedule an appointment at Arlington Dermatology today.