Posts tagged with ‘botox’

Botox Beauty Bits

BOTOX BEAUTY BITS Curious about Botox? Is it safe and appropriate for you? Here are some facts that may help you make that decision. First and foremost, what is it? Botox is the short form for “Botulinum Toxin” which is a purified protein made from the bacteria Clostridium Botulinum. It was initially used to treat specific medical conditions that involved the spasm of certain muscles. It was through this use that Drs. Jean and Alistair Carruthers discovered its potential cosmetic benefits. In 2002 the FDA approved Botox for cosmetic use for “glabellar” or brow lines. This substance works by preventing the release of a chemical called acetylcholine at the connector point between nerves and the muscles they supply. This effect results in a temporary paralysis of those specific muscles and essentially relaxes the wrinkles or lines produced when the muscles are used, by relaxing them. Botox is most intended to treat “dynamic” lines or lines that occur as a result of contracting specific muscles particularly in the forehead, brow, and around the eyes. Treating these areas results in fewer wrinkles and a relaxed smooth appearance of the face. Wrinkles that are deep and are present at rest are less likely to show improvement with Botox injections. Botox is injected with small fine needles just under the skin and directly into the targeted muscle. Most side effects with Botox are short lasting. They can include temporary headache, bruising , numbness, swelling and redness. Side effects are usually short lived and easily treated. Who should avoid Botox? Pregnant and/or breastfeeding women and individuals with conditions such as Myasthenia Gravis, ALS, and peripheral neuropathies. Botox should never be administered if there are signs of infection at the muscle site or if the individual has an allergy to any of the ingredients. Having said all of this, Botox is safe and very effective if certain factors are present. These include a well trained and certified clinician who conducts a thorough medical history, selects appropriate clients, informs them about risks as well as benefits, provides instruction regarding what to expect and what to do both immediately post injection and long-term. Botox treatment should be reevaluated at approximately fourteen days after injection because it may take that long to fully realize results. It is generally recommended it be readministerd every four months, at least initially, to maintain effect and prevent new lines. Botox can produce natural and long lasting results with proper use and administration. Bottom line – be informed and seek out a trusted and experienced clinician AND ENJOY. For more information on Botox or for a complimentary consultation please contact DLC MEDAESTHETICA LASER SKIN CARE CLINIC AT 905-632-7309 or email us at info@DLCMED.ca Dr. A. M. Liberatore Natalie Hashka Owner & Medical Consultant Certified Medical Aesthetician DLC Medaesthetica DLC Medaesthetica