As of 2007, Botox injections have been the most common cosmetic procedure largely due to the simplicity of the procedure. This is a ten minute, non-surgical procedure with no down time or pain involved. With just a few injections, noticeable improvements in the smoothness of the skin are visible and can last upwards of six months.
Botox is a purified and isolated protein. When injected into the skin it reduces the activity of facial muscles that cause wrinkles, frown lines, and crow’s feet. Technically called Botulinum toxin, and not used in the medical practice until the 1950s, Botox received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in 1989. Initially, small doses were applied to treat ‘crossed eyes’ and ‘uncontrollable blinking’. Ten years later, the cosmetically desirable effects of Botox were discovered. Subsequently, in 2002, Botox received FDA approval for cosmetic use. The effect of Botox injections is restricted to the area being treated, and because the nerve fibers usually regenerate after a couple of months, the effect is only temporary.
