Photo by Michael Dam on Unsplash
For Randi Newton using botox, the anti-aging miracle toxin has been overwhelmingly positive. She writes that nobody can stop the clock, but at least we can make small tweaks to alter one’s appearance. This magical toxin can make you feel more attractive, confident and little less intimidated by the aging process. Over the past six years, she has spent $10,000 on botox and thinks that it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and feeling good about yourself.
What is Botox
Botox is obtained from the protein botulinum toxin-a powerful poison that freezes your muscles. Simply put botox binds to your muscle receptors thus preventing them from receiving the signal to contract. It acts as a mute button between your muscle and nerve. Medically it’s used to treat some muscular conditions and cosmetically to remove wrinkles.
When injected into humans in small concentrations Botulinum toxin works by preventing signals from nerve cells reaching muscles by paralyzing them. Nerves release acetylcholine a neurotransmitter at the point where nerve endings meet muscle cells. This neurotransmitter hooks itself to the receptors on the muscle cells causing the muscle cells to contract or shorten. Botulinum toxin reduces abnormal muscle contraction and allows the muscles to become less stiff.
Does botox hurt
Since it’s administered through an injection, expect to feel a few pricks. If you really hate needles ask your dermatologist to apply a numbing cream before the procedure. Usually, it’s a quick procedure, after which you can move on with your routine with mild redness.
What are the benefits
Cosmetic benefits of Botox are noteworthy. It helps to reduce wrinkles in your neck, forehead, and mouth with minimal invasion. As a result, you can enjoy a flawless complexion. As you age, your brow may drop due to the reduced elasticity of muscles. Botox cosmetic treatments lift up your brow, make your face look less tired and gives you a youthful appearance.
Excessive underarm sweating can be an embarrassing problem for many people. Botox treatments lessen the severity of this problem. This treatment is also effective in treating people who suffer from migraine headaches. Besides these uses, Botox is used to treat eye squints and leaky bladders.
Apart from these Botox is used for the following reasons.
- Spasm of the eyelids
- Severe neck and shoulder muscle spasms
- Crossed eyes
- Overactive bladder
- Hemifacial Spasm
What are the side effects
Botox is usually safe so long as you visit a doctor who is trained and licensed, but there are some concerns. According to the FDA sometimes the toxin moves beyond the site of injection causing double vision, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, speaking or swallowing, and urinary incontinence. Swallowing and breathing problems could endanger lives and requires medical intervention as soon as possible. Likewise, research studies report some adverse effects in therapeutic cases too.
Mild side effects linked to Botox
- Mild pain and fluid buildup at the site of the injection
- Headache
- Numbness
- Mild nausea
- Drooping
- General weakness
- Flu-like illness
- neck weakness
- Bleeding
- Decreased eyesight
- Wheezing
- Swelling
- Hives
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
How much does this treatment cost and how long does it last
Rates vary depending on your provider. But some hospitals charge between $150 to $400 per treated area. Cosmetic procedures are typically not covered by insurance. Though the results may not be instant, it takes five to fourteen days to see results which last up to four months. Research studies show that facial exercise speeds up the effects of botox and brings about change in your appearance by one day.
If you’re going to have this treatment, consult your doctor, get informed about the cost and plan accordingly. Afterall who doesn’t want to look young and beautiful?