Botox. For those who have had appropriately dosed injections, it can work miracles within a few days. For those just considering it, reason for concern is understandable, since I think we’ve all seen examples of overdone Botox and/or med spa procedures not being applied properly. These are the patients I must take by the hand and explain how conservative I am about using it to give natural, refreshed results.
First, a bit of history. Botulinum toxin was approved by the FDA for treatment of children’s crossed eyes and twitching eyelids in 1989. Since then there have been myriad other safe and effective uses discovered for it, including the treatment of chronic migraines, overactive bladder, severe neck spasms, and excessive underarm sweating.
Botox cosmetic injectables were first approved by the FDA in 2002 and have become a household word for relaxing wrinkles; a brand name virtually interchangeable with the category itself. Here in the U.S., the most common cosmetic procedure is a form of botulinum toxin type A which, injected in small doses into the underlying muscles of the face, paralyzes the muscular function responsible for wrinkles to create smooth, furrow-free skin. Botox cosmetic is FDA approved to temporarily make moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet and forehead lines look better in adults. It can also be used in other areas of the face to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles caused by other muscles, such as around the mouth or on the nose. An off-label use also includes creating a slimmer looking facial profile by injecting it in the lower cheeks on each side of the face. This weakens the overactive muscles and prevents teeth grinding as well. Additionally, bands in the neck that look like hanging skin can be addressed to give a smoother neck.
Allergan’s Botox remains the gold standard — safe, effective, and proven. With more than 100 million vials sold, the safety profile and efficacy is unrivaled by any other Botox brand. Allergan diffusion is more reliable and predictable, making it ideal for small muscles. Many patients believe Allergan Botox is longer-lasting as well. This varies from person to person, so the goal of each client’s treatment needs to be determined. Whether or not you decide to use Botox or any other injectable, let’s discuss together what works for you when you come in for a free consultation.
And guess what? Tomorrow is Botox Day — a day to celebrate a brand new “Alle” loyalty program that can get you Botox injectable discounts well into the future! Visit BotoxCosmeticDay.alle.com when it goes live tomorrow, November 18th, to buy one $50 gift card and get one gift card FREE! Don’t snooze on this one, as there will be limited availability.
