The Effect of Botox

The procedure called botox is the injection of the botulism bacteria into a specific area of the skin in order to paralyze the nerves below the surface. Dermatologists perform this procedure most often to smooth facial wrinkles, creating a more youthful appearance. It can also be used to treat repetitive muscle spasms, excessive sweating, osteoarthritis and other conditions.

Function

• The injection paralyzes nerves and muscles. Botulism, the toxin used in the Botox procedure, is the most lethal bacteria yet discovered, and only minute amounts are required to induce muscle paralysis. Botox inhibits the reception of acetylcholine, a chemical secreted by nerves to induce muscle contraction. These regular contractions wrinkle the skin over time.

Cosmetic Botox Effects

• Botox is typically applied to smooth wrinkles that only appear during facial movement. The effects of the surgery become apparent after five to ten days. It works by subduing facial movement, so the wrinkles do not appear, creating the appearance of smoother skin. Botox can't smooth out wrinkles that appear on the skin due to facial movements, as it has no effect on skin elasticity. The treatment must be re-applied every three to six months, as the nerve damage heals after that period of time.

Side Effects

• The FDA warns of the possibility of death if the botulism used in the treatment spreads throughout the body, but no fatalities have been yet recorded due to cosmetic Botox procedures. The most common side effect of Botox treatments are patches of red skin in the affected areas combined with skin irritation. This side effect can be exacerbated by extended exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet radiation. Botox can also cause headaches, eyelid drooping, flu-like symptoms and stomach problems.

Medical Botox

• The vast majority of Botox treatments are used for cosmetic purposes, but it has valid medical uses as well. People with repetitive muscle tremors can get Botox treatments wherever needed to gain relief. Individuals with misaligned eyes can receive Botox injections to repair the condition. Studies are even being conducted on the use of Botox to treat arthritis and osteoarthritis, although no definitive results have been achieved.

Long-Term Effects of Repeated Botox Injections

• The exact effects of repeated Botox usage over a long period of time are not well established, as it has only been in use for a relatively short period of time. A study conducted by the Journal of Neuroscience in April 2008 demonstrated that long-term usage of Botox could result in brain damage in rats. A comparable study has not been conducted for humans. The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons also conducted a study in 2008 that measured that adults who had received Botox treatments over a period of years had brows up to 3mm higher than comparable populations that had not received such injections.