Botox® is made from a neurotoxin called botulinum toxin. Sounds scary, right? Especially because botulinum toxins are some of the most toxic and dangerous poisons.
But while botulinum toxin is dangerous when ingested, it may actually enhance your health and appearance when used as directed by a medical provider. When administered in recommended doses by trained professionals, Botox goes from the "danger zone" to "wrinkle-fighting MVP." Here's how something toxic has become mainstream and safe when used correctly.
Take advantage of the numerous aesthetic benefits linked to Botox and eliminate years from your appearance by scheduling an appointment with our dermatology specialists at Vindhya Veerula MD - Integrative Dermatology & Laser Spa in Fort Wayne, Indiana, by phone or online.
Botulinum toxin is a potent neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum. It’s been used in medical practices since the late 1970s and is approved by the FDA for specific uses.
The botulinum toxin present in some fish, fruits, and vegetables, such as those that are improperly canned or preserved, can cause botulism when ingested. This can lead to complications like shortness of breath, difficulty breathing or speaking, trouble swallowing, and weakness. Without treatment, botulism is sometimes fatal.
However, when used as an injection, Botox offers a plethora of benefits — as long as it’s administered by a trained professional as intended.
The Food and Drug Administration has approved Botox for the following medical and cosmetic uses:
Botox cosmetic injections are approved to temporarily reduce moderate to severe forehead lines, crow’s feet, smile lines, frown lines, and other fine lines and wrinkles.
Botox also has off-label uses, including the reduction of nerve pain, myofascial pain, and other types of chronic discomfort.
Botox works differently when injected by a medical professional than when it’s ingested via contaminated foods. When ingested, botulinum toxin can cause problems for essential body functions, such as swallowing and breathing.
However, cosmetic Botox products are injected in small doses. They work by relaxing muscles and other tissues to diminish fine lines and treat an array of medical concerns. The difference involves ingesting toxins vs. injecting them in small doses. For example, ingesting a large amount of botulinum toxin or getting this toxin into a wound can lead to serious side effects.
And as with any type of medical treatment, there are also risks and potential side effects associated with receiving Botox injections. Individuals who should NOT get Botox injections include women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and individuals with neuromuscular diseases, drooping eyelids, or weak facial muscles.
If you’re not a candidate for Botox injections, the Vindhya Veerula MD - Integrative Dermatology & Laser Spa experts might offer alternative solutions. Examples include laser treatment, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, sclerotherapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and dermal fillers to achieve your skin revitalization and anti-aging goals.
Learn more about Botox at Vindhya Veerula MD - Integrative Dermatology & Laser Spa and find out if it’s right for you by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.
