Botox is no longer an injection treatment for simply getting rid of crows feet, forehead lines and frown lines. In fact, it is now being used increasingly for preventing more advanced signs of aging. This is the new rationale for many young women who are still in their twenties, but opting for Botox.

Usually patients will notice the development of wrinkles that other people would consider to be very minor or virtually unnoticeable. However, the sight of newly developed lines that had not previously existed can be distressing for the individual who has them. And these emotions are enough for them to seek the help of physicians.

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These days it seems that young women feel they need to adopt very high standards in their personal attractiveness (photo: Flickr)*

Statistics on the Use of Botox

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons releases an annual Plastic Surgery Statistics Report. In the 2012 publication, statistics revealed that Botox usage among individuals in their twenties increased by 8% between 2011-2012. Therefore 92,955 procedures were performed within this age group in 2012.

However the total Botox injections administered in the United States during 2012 was about 6.1 million, making it the number one minimally invasive cosmetic treatment for all ages.

Is Botox Really A Toxin?

The scientific name for Botox is botulinum toxin type A. And the term, toxin can seem alarming to many people. Therefore, the thought of young women getting Botox treatments can seem like a particularly extreme course of action to take.

According to medical experts on Real Self, the toxic effects of Botox can be a real risk and cause for concern when it is administered in very large doses. An example might include the use of this injection to treat certain types of spasms where high doses may cause botulism type symptoms.

For those who are concerned about Botox being poisonous, the small dosages used for cosmetic wrinkle reduction would not fit under this category. According to Dr. Howard Kaplan of Celibre, Botox has a higher safety profile compared to regular asprin.  He adds that millions of cosmetic procedures have been performed using this injectable product. And none have been linked to any deaths.

Like any drug available, Botox does have side effects. If too much is used, this can cause the eyelids to temporarily droop. Also patients may experience double vision for a certain time according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This is why it is important to choose a practitioner carefully. A good doctor will be able to know how much Botox to administer and anticipate the effects ahead of time.

Here is an example of an older patient who received a very positive transformation in her appearance from using Botox

 

Understanding What Happens In A Botox Treatment

Botox is different from dermal fillers.  Although it ultimately produces effects on the skin, it primarily targets the nerves which affect certain muscles.

In order for muscles to contract, they have to receive a chemical signals called acetylcholine from nerve fibers.

Botox (and its competitor, Dysport) will block the release of acetylcholine from the nerves.  The muscles are not able to receive their normal input of this neurotransmitter. Muscle relaxation is the basis for how Botox works.

Should Botox Be Used To Prevent More Serious Forms of Wrinkles

Some doctors feel that Botox can help prevent the repetitive creasing of the skin which inevitably turns into permanent lines. While this may be the case, others advise young women to hold off on the injection until they get older. In the meantime, they are encouraged to make positive and consistent lifestyle changes by wearing daily sunscreen, abstaining from cigarettes and alcohol and eating plenty of antioxidant rich foods.

To learn more about preventative measures for the skin, click here