Since receiving FDA approval in 2002 for its use in the “prevention and treatment of moderate to severe dynamic wrinkles,” Botox has become the #1 injectable cosmetic treatment in the U.S., with more than 7 million treatments performed last year alone. While Botox is now a household name, many people do not know that its benefits extend past just treating wrinkles.
The Refreshing and Surprising Benefits of Botox
1. Smoother Skin
Botox is most commonly known for its use as a powerful anti-wrinkle treatment. Botox accomplishes this by blocking the signals that are sent from the nerves to the muscles that cause the skin to contract or wrinkle. Since the skin around these muscles can’t contract, the treated areas appear smoother and more relaxed. Patients often report that they look more rested and that their makeup goes on much more smoothly.
For the purpose of smoothing unwanted wrinkles, Botox is most often used on forehead lines, crow’s feet (lines around the eyes), and frown lines between the eyes, often referred to as “eleven” lines.
2. Eyebrow Lift
The number one request we hear from patients who have decided to undergo Botox treatments is that they would like a little brow lift. Since we know Botox relaxes muscles, you might wonder how or why this works as a brow lift. The muscles between and above the brows work together to pull the eyebrows down and in (“furrowing”), frequently causing vertical lines between the brows. When strategically placed, Botox can relax these muscles, allowing the brow to rest in a slightly elevated position. Many patients feel this gives them a more relaxed, refreshed, and “bright-eyed” look.
3. Prevention of Wrinkles
We’ve all heard the saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and when it comes to wrinkles, nothing could be truer. The use of small doses of Botox before wrinkles appear, often called “Baby Botox,” can prevent fine lines and wrinkles from forming in the first place; “Baby Botox” treatments have soared in popularity among the younger demographic, with many patients electing to have their Botox treatments in their early 20s.
4. Decrease Excessive Sweating
Perhaps the most surprising, lesser-known benefit of Botox is how well it works to decrease excessive sweating, a condition known as hyperhidrosis. When injected into the hands, feet, and underarm areas, Botox interrupts the chemical messengers responsible for turning on the body’s sweat glands, effectively turning off sweating in the treated areas. While Botox does not “cure” hyperhidrosis, the treatments are quick and the results typically last an average of 6 months.
Schedule a Botox Session in Nashville
For more information, or to find out if Botox is right for you, call us at Gold Skin Care Center for a complimentary consultation.
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