While Botox is an effective option for reducing the visible signs of aging, it has a plethora of other benefits. It can also treat other diseases, such as cervical dystonia, which causes neck spasms, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), and a lazy eye. Another significant benefit of Botox is that it helps decrease the frequency of recurrent migraines. Before we learn more about Botox uses, let’s look at what Botox is.
As the name suggests, Botox comes from a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Botox has been used for cosmetic purposes to treat wrinkles brought on by muscle movement for years. Since Botox is a neurotoxin, it affects the neurological system, interfering with the nerve signaling mechanisms that cause muscular contraction. This is how it causes momentary paralysis of the muscles. Acetylcholine is a chemical messenger that the nerves release at the point where nerve terminals and muscle cells converge to cause any muscle to contract. Acetylcholine connects to receptors on muscle cells, causing the cells to shorten or contract. Botox prevents the release of acetylcholine, thus preventing the muscle cells from contracting.
Even though Botox is a toxin, when used carefully and sparingly by doctors, it can have several advantages. Botox uses include the treatment of both medical and cosmetic concerns. Here are some top Botox uses:
Botox is primarily used to reduce the appearance of static wrinkles. Botox injections are the most widely used cosmetic surgery in the US, according to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. In 2016, over 7 million people received Botox treatments. Cosmetically, Botox can be used to reduce wrinkles and fine lines in the following areas:
Botox is also used to treat a variety of medical conditions, most of which affect the neuromuscular system. Here are some medical Botox uses:
Botox is very effective in treating migraines. In fact, pain relief is one of the top Botox uses. It works on the nerve endings and blocks the chemicals called neurotransmitters that carry pain signals from your brain. According to a 2018 study, Botox for chronic migraine was effective, safe and well-tolerated over three years in chronic migraine patients. A 2019 review of studies also showed that Botox injections are effective in helping to prevent chronic migraine after three months of therapy. Treatment for chronic migraine with the help of Botox uses 31 injections with five units per injection. Some of the top areas where we can use Botox for migraines are:
Abnormal excessive sweating that is not related to heat or exercise is known as hyperhidrosis. Botox is a highly-effective solution for hyperhidrosis. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved underarm Botox injections to treat excessive underarm sweating. Botox in armpits works by blocking a chemical that activates the sweat glands. According to the International Hyperhidrosis Society, underarm Botox injections can reduce underarm sweating by 82–87%. The effects of Botox for sweating can typically last 4–12 months or up to 14 months in some cases.
Before Botox's 2002 clearance for the frown lines between the brows, Allergan received approval for the drug in 2000 for the treatment of a condition called cervical dystonia, which is characterized by an abnormal head position and excruciating neck pain.
Crossed eyes, or strabismus, is a condition in which one or both eyes ca not focus on the same object at once and appear to be pointed in different directions. The weak eye will turn inward, in the direction of the nose, and away from the object, it is meant to be focusing on. This issue can be resolved with Botox without the need for cosmetic surgery or any invasive procedure. The extraocular muscles that are treated with Botox are injected directly, which relaxes the muscle and lessens the misalignment of the eyes.
The list of Botox uses is endless. At Biolite, we administer FDA-approved Botox injections to ensure the safety of our clients. Our board-certified dermatologists evaluate your medical history and recommend the best treatment plan based on your needs.
To learn more about Botox uses for your well-being, you can speak to us on +971 4 346 6641, email on info@biolitedubai.com, or schedule an appointment here.
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