Basics of Botox

Botox may not be for everyone but if you’re trying to decide if it’s right for you and want to understand a bit more about it, here’s some more information:

First, Botox is a brand name but the name is often used to describe a whole class of neuromodulators that includes Dysport, Xeomin and others that work in a similar manner. I will use “botox” here to describe these products generally.

With botox, the effect occurs at a specific location where it is injected in the muscle and attaches to nerve endings. Once attached it inhibits the release of the neurotransmitter responsible for triggering muscle contractions. This reduces the strength of the muscle, thereby minimizing the appearance of wrinkles as muscles remain relaxed. The effects will generally last for 3-6 months.

One of the most common uses for botox is to treat lines in the upper third of the face. These lines are formed due to repetitive muscle movement. One location is the glabella, where botox is used to treat the “11s” (the lines made when you frown). Botox can also be used to treat horizontal forehead lines, “crow’s feet” and "bunny lines."  There is a large list of areas that can be treated, both on and off label, but these are some of the most common.

“Baby botox” is a term sometimes used to describe treatment with smaller doses but the number of units needed varies from person to person depending on their goals, the treatment areas and strength of muscles. In general though botox can be used to soften the appearance of lines and wrinkles while maintaining natural movement and not “freezing” the face.

It's important to understand that botox works primarily to treat dynamic wrinkles, not static wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles appear when you make facial expressions, for example when you furrow your brow or smile. For deeply etched in static lines (present at rest), botox may not help reduce completely and hyaluronic acid fillers could be considered to soften these lines further.