Botulinum Toxin

Botulinum toxin

Botulinum toxin (also known in the cosmetic industry as Botox) is a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. You may know about Botox, in its commercial form, but you may not know much about the toxin that makes up Botox and how it works.

A Scientific Background

Botulinum toxin is actually one of the most poisonous biological substances around. When given the wrong dosage, or wrong strain of the toxin, it can be lethal or extremely dangerous to humans and animals.

However, in 2002, the FDA approved the use of Botox (Botulinum toxin-A) for cosmetic purposes, such as ridding the forehead or eyes of lines and wrinkles. This how you are most likely familiar with Botulinum toxin and in this industry it has an excellent track record of safety.

How does Botulinum Toxin Work?

The Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxic protein, and a powerful one at that.

The effective and impactful results that can be seen in the cosmetic procedures using Botox are due to the effect Botulinum toxin has on your neurotransmission. It works by interfering with the way your nerves and cells communicate with your brain. This is called acetylcholine-mediated communication. Basically, it stops your muscles contracting, and the results of this is less lines, wrinkles, and reduced skin texture.

What Cosmetic Treatments are Available using Botox?

For wrinkles & fine lines

The most common cosmetic treatment using Botulinum toxin, are injections in the face which help prevent and lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. When most people think of Botox, this will be what springs to mind.

Botox in this area can help lessen frown lines, crows feet, and even smile lines. It works wonderfully for most patients, and has an extremely high success rate (and low risk-factor).

For Excessive Sweating

Another medical / cosmetic use for Botulinum toxin that has been discovered, is the prevention of sweat. As it can disrupt the neurotransmission for the skin to sweat, it is a fantastic treatment for those who experience excessive sweating. People with excessive sweating may experience symptoms in a variety of places on their body, such as the hairline, on their hands, or their underarms. Botulinum toxin can be injected into these areas to prevent the sweat from appearing in these areas.

For Migraines

Another common use for Botox is as a reliever to Migraine pain. Because it blocks the neurotransmission of nerve endings, receiving Botox injections in the right areas of the forehead or temples, can actually help reduce or get rid of migraine pain. This can be a hugely life-changing procedure for many patients, especially where medication may not be effective enough.

If you’d like to talk to one of our team about Botulinum toxin and receiving Botox injections, feel free to drop us an email or message. We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have.

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