What is Botox®?
Botox® was the first FDA-approved product to use botulinum toxin for wrinkle smoothing. It also has an extensive list of medical uses. Your facial muscles pull on and crease your skin each time you smile, frown, or laugh. With time, the skin cannot relax back to its smooth state between expressions. Botox® stops the muscle activity, so your wrinkles can soften and disappear. Botox® works equally well for men and women, although men often have heavier forehead and brow lines.
How Does Botox® Work?
The active ingredient in Botox®, purified botulinum toxin, works by interfering with the signals between nerves and muscles. When injected into your facial muscles, Botox® pauses the nerves from sending signals telling your muscles to contract. As the muscles relax and soften, so can your skin. Botox® has been approved to treat crow’s feet, forehead creases, and vertical lines between the brows (glabellar lines).
How Long Does Botox® Take to Work?
Many people start to see results from Botox® within a week or two after their injections. You will see your results continue to develop for the next week or two. The injected Botox® takes time to reach the target nerves, quiet their signals, and relax the skin.