There have been various procedures and methods coming up by many doctors and scientists to stop the skin from aging and getting wrinkles. Among these methods, BOTOX® owns the first place in the list of popular anti-aging procedures. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about Botox, such as its functions, cost, and risks. Let’s get started with what exactly BOTOX® is.
What is BOTOX®, and how does it work?
The word BOTOX® comes from the name of a protein (Botulinum toxin) that plays the main role in this method. This protein stops muscle spasms and paralyzes the nerves.
When Botulinum toxin is injected into the muscles, it stops them from contracting. As a result, the muscles don’t move, and no wrinkles appear on the skin.
What is BOTOX® used for?
Though BOTOX® is mostly known for cosmetic uses, it is done for many medical reasons too. Some medical problems, such as eyelid spasms and excessive sweating, are cured by BOTOX® injections. Therefore, people under 18 might have to use this procedure as well. However, doctors recommend people before their 20s not do Botulinum toxin for cosmetic reasons.
The paralyzing effects of Botulinum toxin are not permanent and will remain for a few months. Nevertheless, doing BOTOX® continuously makes its effects somehow permanent. When you keep doing this procedure for several years, you’ll need less BOTOX® over time as your muscles lose their strength.
How much Botulinum toxin is needed for me?
The amount of BOTOX® to be injected into your body highly depends on the area you wish to look soft and young. For example, forehead lines take 10 to 30 units of BOTOX®, while smile lift takes 3 to 6. Leave it to your doctor to decide how many Botulinum toxin units are needed for your muscles.
How much does BOTOX® cost?
Depending on several factors, such as the brand, country, and the amount of BOTOX® needed for surgery, prices are different. For example, Jeuveau costs you $8 to $16 per unit of BOTOX®, while Dysport costs you $5. Also, you may find doing Botulinum toxin in some counties more affordable due to currency different rates. Turkey is well-known for its low-price cosmetic services. That is why people from all over Europe travel to Turkey for cosmetic surgeries.
What are the risks of Botulinum toxin?
Even though Botulinum toxin is a non-invasive procedure and has minimal risk, there are still several things to consider. There’s a slight possibility of producing Botulinum toxin more than the usual amount. That’ll lead to terrible and irreversible consequences. However, with a professional and experienced doctor, you won’t have to worry about the possible risks.
What is the difference between Botulinum toxin and filler?
There’s a general misconception about Botulinum toxin and filler. Some people consider them the same way for making the skin look younger. However, these two are entirely different procedures with some similar effects.
- Botulinum toxin injections paralyze the muscle, while fillers only fill out the skin
- Fillers are injected into the skin, while Botulinum toxin is injected into the muscle
- BOTOX® is mostly used in the upper area of the face, such as the eyes and eyebrows, while the filler is used in lower parts, like the lips and jaws.
That said, both have temporary anti-aging effects and serve cosmetic and medical uses.
Botulinum toxin has been and still is the best method to prevent wrinkles from appearing on your skin. It gives you a younger look without having to experience invasive surgery and staying in the hospital!