Botox® Cosmetic is a prescription medication (onabotulinumtoxinA) that is injected into muscles to smooth facial wrinkles. It is a non-surgical procedure that is FDA-approved and requires no down time.
How does Botox® Cosmetic work?
When Botox® Cosmetic is injected, it blocks nerve impulses to the injected muscles which reduces muscle activity that causes lines to form. The result is the appearance of smoother skin. It can take 3-7 days for Botox® Cosmetic to take effect. After a treatment, the results remain effective for three months or more.
Where is Botox® Cosmetic used?
Botox® Cosmetic is most commonly used to reduce frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines), crows feet and forehead. It can also be used around the mouth, underneath the eyes, and to reduce the appearance of bands around the neck.
Will I still be able to make facial expressions?
Although the results are visible, a treatment with Botox® Cosmetic will not radically change your facial appearance or make you look as if you’ve “had work done.” The muscle activity is temporarily reduced, so you can still frown or look surprised without the wrinkles and creases.
How long does Botox® Cosmetic last?
Although results vary, Botox® Cosmetic typically lasts more than 3 months.
Are Botox® Cosmetic treatments painful?
Injections are delivered with a very small needle and discomfort is typically minimal.
How long has Botox® Cosmetic been on the market?
Botulinum toxins were first used to treat neurological disorders in the 1960’s. Botox® was approved by the FDA in 1989 to treat eye muscle disorders, and in 2000 to treat cervical dystonia (a disorder that causes severe neck and shoulder contractions). Botox® was approved by the FDA in 2002 for cosmetic use.
