What is Botox?
Botox is actually a neurotoxic protein called the ‘botulin toxin’. It is produced by the bacterium ‘clostridium botulinum’ and it is one of the most poisonous naturally occurring substances in the world. A single drop of the toxin can kill over 50,000 people.

How does it work?
In the 1950s, researchers discovered that injecting overactive muscles with minute quantities of the botulinium toxin (type A) decreased muscle activity by blocking the release of a chemical, thereby rendering the muscle unable to contract for anything up to 6 months.

Why is it so popular?
Botox injections are one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures available today. In western culture, there is a quest by many to remain as youthful looking as possible. The appearance of wrinkles, which age the face, are a source of anxiety to many. By freezing the muscles responsible for these wrinkles, Botox eliminates or reduces these wrinkles without the need for cosmetic surgery. It is relatively painless, requires no lenghty hospital stay, is not an invasive procedure, and lasts for up to 6 months at a time.

What are the risks?
Botox is a poison. Botox may cause more muscles than the ones you want to freeze causing a portion of your face to ‘droop’. You may notice a tightness in your face or an inability to make certain facial expressions. You speech may seem tighter than normal.