With all the hype and insanity over people getting Botox injections for everything from a sagging chin to a droopy eyelid, one has to wonder just what it is that Botox does and how exactly does it work?
To understand exactly what Botox is and what it does, we first have to look at just how this cosmetic of modern science came to be.
Botulinum toxins, which are what Botox basically comes from, were first researched back in the 60’s during the hippie era. Originally, the purpose of this was to treat neurological disorders. In 1989, Botox was finally approved by the FDA to treat eye muscle disorders like blepharospasm, uncontrollable blinking, strabismus, crossed eyes and even wrinkles. In the year 2000, it was approved to treat cervical dystonia. This is a disorder that causes severe neck and shoulder contractions and also a very unusual side effect of eye disorder treatments. In their research, doctors discovered that Botox softened the frown lines between the eyebrows. It was after this discovery that Botox officially came into existence and was FDA approved on April 15, 2002.
So, what exactly does Botox do and how does it work? Well, when Botox is injected into the muscles of the forehead, it blocks nerve impulses which results in the weakening of the muscles that cause frown lines. Eventually, over a period of several months, given enough of these injections, the frown lines start to get softer and, in some cases, can eventually disappear completely.
Botox injections themselves are actually a diluted form of botulism. Yes, the same botulism that can make us very ill. Botox, as a cosmetic, is a purified form of the Botulinum toxin.
The next question is, how exactly does it work? Well, to put it simply, every time you laugh, smile, frown, or do just about anything with your facial muscles, wrinkles are caused by the underlying contractions of these muscles. After years of making these expressions, the wear and tear on your face can become noticeable and the lines can become permanent. When these creases become permanent, it can be difficult to reverse or get rid of them. That's where Botox has staked its claim in application. After being injected into the affected area, it temporarily paralyzes these muscles so that you can't make these expressions. That's why you may have noticed that some people who have had Botox injections literally look like mannequins. They lack a range of animated expression because of its effects. You'll still have enough movement to look semi human (a matter of opinion), but not enough to cause the wrinkles you’ve paid to eradicate. The result of this process of taking Botox injections is that they are designed to help make you look younger.
So, what's the price for this "fountain of youth?" Botox is definitely not cheap. The average cost of just one Botox injection in the United States is about $350. This also depends on what area of your face is getting the injections. The area near the eyes is more expensive, typically costing between $400 and $900 per injection. For large surface areas such as the forehead, injections can cost between $600 and $1,300 a pop.
And, with all the fuss about simply looking younger, one has to wonder how safe these injections are. Downsides can include and may not be limited to permanent neurological damage, accidental paralysis of the wrong muscles, eye or face droop, bruising and allergic reaction, to name a few. Suffice to say, while Botox may have its downsides, it has become a popular regimen to look younger.
Meanwhile, if you’re not so hot on the idea of Botox and want to seek alternatives, there are some effective plant-based options out there that help to eliminate and minimize fine lines and wrinkles. Before turning to Botox injections you might consider giving them a try. MAX REVITAL-EYES by Young Ever After is an all-natural, plant-based eye serum that helps with those pesky lines around your eyes, as well as dark circles and wrinkles, so it does more than Botox right out of the gate. You won’t lose your facial expression ability and it’s a fraction of the cost of Botox. Just a consideration. ;)
Cheers to living Young Ever After!
