Botox injections are a popular cosmetic procedure used to reduce wrinkles and treat a variety of medical conditions. The procedure involves injecting small amounts of botulinum toxin into the skin or muscles, which blocks signals from nerves to muscles and causes wrinkles to relax and soften. The effects of Botox typically last between three and twelve months, depending on the area being treated. Common side effects include pain, swelling, bruising, flu-like symptoms, headache, and an upset stomach.
It is important to note that Botox should not be used while pregnant or breastfeeding. In addition to cosmetic purposes, healthcare providers also use Botox to treat a variety of medical conditions, most of which affect the neuromuscular system. The FDA approved the use of Botox for a cosmetic treatment for moderate to severe expression lines between the eyebrows in 2002. According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, Botox Injections Are the Most Popular Cosmetic Procedure Nationwide. When considering Botox for any reason, it is essential to ensure that the provider is a qualified professional with the right training.
Healthcare providers strongly recommend that you get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as you are eligible, whether you have received Botox or not. Botox injections temporarily paralyze muscles to reduce wrinkles, while dermal fillers add volume and help retain moisture. However, when Botox is properly used in a therapeutic setting, it is safe and has few side effects, reports the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. For people looking to receive cosmetic Botox, the American Academy of Facial Aesthetics has a localization feature that can help.
If someone wants to try Botox, it's a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider about risks, costs, and other considerations.
