WHAT IS IT:

Botox® is the revolutionary, prescription medication created by Allergan which was licensed for the reduction of lines and wrinkles in 2002. Drugs such as Dysport®, Xeomin® and Dysport® followed later.  

Botulinum toxin type A, the ingredient used in Botox®, received FDA approval for medical use in 1989. The first it was used in humans was in 1978.

Botulinum toxin type A can temporarily block nerve impulses sent to a muscle from the brain. When used cosmetically the therapeutic toxin is strategically injected in exact points which then changes muscle activity in that specific area.  Some lines occur as a result of overactive muscle tissue. When the treated muscle relaxes, the skin attached to the muscle becomes smoother and lines and wrinkles are reduced.  Botulinum Toxin Type A can also be used to reduce perspiration and treat migraines and teeth grinding (bruxism).  

When used cosmetically and correctly the effects of Botulinum Toxin Type A are temporary and treatment is usually repeated every three months.

MORE INFORMATION:

Botox® is a prescribed medication and it is essential that it is only administered by a registered medical practitioner such as an aesthetic doctor, dermatologist or plastic surgeon.  A registered aesthetic nurse or dentist with the correct training and experience can also administer Botulinum toxin type A. It should never be done by an aesthetician or without a medical practitioner on site as serious or inconvenient side effects are possible and your practitioner should therefore be fully equipped to deal with these.

Cosmetic toxin treatments are as much an art as a medical procedure so proper training, experience, artistic talent and personal taste are all relevant when it comes to choosing the best practitioner for you.  You can check a doctor’s status on the General Medical Council register (GMC), a nurse on the Nurse and Midwifery Council register (NMC), and a dentist on the General Dental Council register (GDC).  When it comes to Cosmetic surgery, it is best to choose a registered Plastic or Oculoplastic surgeon. Relevant organisations include the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.