Botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, is a widely accepted medical cosmetic treatment that effectively smooths out wrinkles on the face, such as crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead wrinkles.
It is a high-purity protein extracted from the botulinum bacteria, which relaxes tense muscles by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates muscle contraction.
Since its introduction as a clinical drug in 1979 for the treatment of strabismus, various brands of Botox have emerged from different countries worldwide, including the United States, Europe, Korea, and China. Therefore, the quality of the product may vary depending on the brand.
Botox targets dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement, such as those that appear when you smile or frown. It is not effective against static wrinkles that are visible even when facial muscles are at rest. However, early use of Botox to control expression lines may help prevent the formation of static wrinkles. As a result, people nowadays tend to receive Botox injections at an increasingly younger age, some even starting in their twenties.
Apart from reducing wrinkles, Botox can also be used to lift eyebrows, soften neck lines, enhance lip contours, and reduce excessive sweating under the arms, palms, and feet. In particular, Botox injections are effective in reducing the secretion of sweat in the underarms, helping to improve the unpleasant odor commonly associated with excessive sweating.
Botox injections typically last from three to six months, and they are well-tolerated with minimal side effects. However, the effects of Botox wear off gradually once the treatment is discontinued. The effectiveness of the treatment depends heavily on the experience and technique of the injector. Therefore, it is advisable to seek a qualified and experienced medical practitioner to administer the injections.