What is Botox®?
Anon, Whenuapai.
A great question. Many assume they know as it's well splashed over the media, however I imagine many don't know more than "it freezes your face, Susan".
Botox® is actually a brand name for Botulinum toxin (other brand names include Dysport® and Xeomin®). All of these contain variable concentrations of toxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. Originally used by the United States Army as a bioweapon in World War II, this chemical has a powerful effect on paralyzing muscles.
In large quantities Botulinum toxin can be dangerous, causing muscles needed for breathing to stop working. When used in much smaller concentrations, such as those used in Cosmetic Medicine, it is an effective tweaker of facial musculature, acting as a relaxant for muscles that cause pesky wrinkles. In skilled hands the result is a lovely, refreshed face, without looking frozen (think post-holiday-in-the-tropics glow). In not-so-skilled hands it can lead to something that resembles a stroke.
Botox® also acts on other parts of tissue such as sweat glands, providing an effective treatment for hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). It has also been shown to help reduce the appearance of scars. The effect of this chemical is transient, lasting 3-4 months on average (up to 6-9 months in some). Muscle fibre and sweat gland function completely returns once it wears off, so top-ups are required to maintain results.
Despite function recovering, repeated treatments on muscles leads to wasting, as one slowly diminishes their desire to do certain expressions targeted by treatment injections, such as frowning. This alters the connectome in the brain, the complex wiring of brain cells connecting muscles of facial expression with emotion. Gradual weakening of muscles leads to altered emotions, hence less frowning triggers us to feel happier. Our animal instincts cause us to mimic each other, so if we look happier, so too do our peers.
Like so many historical discoveries, Botox® began as a beast and morphed into a thing of beauty. In the right hands, you too can benefit from its clever brilliance.
Botox®, Prescription Medicine For the treatment of frown lines and crow’s feet around the eyes. Botox® has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if Botox is right for you. Botulinum toxin type A 50, 100, 200 Units. For product information check with your doctor or Consumer Medicine Information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Click for further details. Allergan, Auckland.