How Often Can I Get BOTOX Injections?

Some of the expression lines targeted during BOTOX treatment include:

• Frown lines
• Crow’s feet
• Eyebrow lift
• Horizontal forehead
• Chin line
• Bunny lines
• Marionette lines
• Radial lip lines

A firm called Allergan, Inc. owns BOTOX and other associated patents. 

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), the US Food and Drug Administration approved the cosmetic use of BOTOX in 2002. Over a decade later, BOTOX has also been approved for the treatment of crow’s feet, overactive bladder and excessive sweating under the arms.

The other conditions include lateral orbicularis and chronic migraines. 

Some of the contraindications for Botulinum Toxin Injection according to AAFP include:

• Allergy to Botulinum toxin products
• Keloid scarring
• Neuromuscular disorders like Myasthenia Gravis

BOTOX Injection and What to Expect

How Often Can I Get BOTOX Injections

BOTOX is a potent neurotoxin derived from a bacterium called Clostridium Botulinum. 

BOTOX A is widely used in dermatology as a preferred cosmeceutical for reducing wrinkles and associated conditions.

Wrinkling is a natural process caused by dermal degeneration and constant tightening of the facial musculature. 

• Best Effective Ways to Reduce Wrinkles on your Face
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According to Columbia University Irving Treatment Center, treatment for facial wrinkles is conducted by administering a small dose of BOTOX injection on the wrinkled muscles. No anesthesia is required before injection. The BOTOX shot is very brief and painless.

When injected, BOTOX goes into action by blocking the secretion of a natural ligand called acetylcholine (ACh). This causes muscle paralysis for 24 hours to 2 weeks. The effect of the injection will last between 3 months (90 days) to 6 months (180 days) before another round of treatment. It is important to reiterate that the longevity factor will vary from one person to the other.

Other Uses of BOTOX

Botulinum toxin is a hugely beneficial cosmeceutical. 

• Facial flushing
• Cutaneous lesions
• Cervical dystonia (neck spasm)
• Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
• Pompholyx (dyshidrotic eczema)
• Strabismus (lazy eye)
• Chronic migraines

Facial flushing is a condition that causes redness and burning sensation. 

A Botulinum neurotoxin injected intradermally targets the sweat gland function by preventing the movement of neurotransmission at the nerve terminals from reaching the glands. 

Recent Developments on BOTOX Research

A new study by researchers at Northwestern University suggests facial exercise can speed BOTOX’s ability to reduce wrinkles. 

The toxin acts by immobilizing the movement of hyperactive muscles. 

In terms of safety, BOTOX has been clinically tested and found safe. The possible side effects are mild and include skin tightening, temporary numbness and swelling in the affected area.

Local BOTOX Treatment

Patient safety is paramount when undertaking any treatment procedure. Although BOTOX cosmetic boasts an excellent safety record and patient satisfaction, care must always be taken. 

He also advises patients to avoid taking non-prescription blood thinners, a few days before receiving a jab of BOTOX. This cautionary measure is done to curtail the risk of bleeding and bruising. 

Men who have come for treatment have seen the lines around their eyes; brows and forehead even out, giving them a younger and reinvigorated look. 

• Frown lines between the eyebrows – 10 to 35 units
• Bunny lines at the bridge of the nose – 4 to 8 units
• Forehead burrows – 10 to 35 units
• Chin – 10 units
• Crow’s feet – 10 to 50 units
• Skin bands around the neck – 10 to 30 units

There is no recommended age for BOTOX treatment.