Botox
Botox® is made from a neurotoxin called botulinum toxin that is used medically and cosmetically to treat certain muscular conditions. However, in large amounts, this toxin can cause muscle paralysis. In the late 1980s, the FDA approved the clinical usage of Botox® in small amounts.
K2 Dermatology in Boulder sees patients who request Botox® injections for cosmetic enhancements and aesthetic purposes to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and fine lines.
Although Botox is predominantly used for cosmetic purposes, Botox has been proven effective for therapeutic applications including:
- Spasm of the eyelids
- Chronic migraine
- Hemifacial spasm
- Severe neck and shoulder muscle spasms
- And much more
Botox is performed in the clinic by our physicians. It starts as a powder-like substance and diluted in saline, which is injected with a fine needle directly into the neuromuscular tissue. Botox blocks the nerve signal that communicates with the targeted muscle. The muscle at the injection site can no longer tighten as forcefully, causing wrinkles and fine lines to relax. The entire procedure takes just a few minutes and does not require any anesthesia. Patients have reported only mild discomfort. After approximately 24-72 hours, the Botox will start to take effect and it may take up to seven days for the full effect to be observed.
Most common areas Botox is most effective are:
- Forehead lines
- Frown lines
- Crow’s feet
- Bunny lines (lines in the nose)
- Chin
- Skin band on the neck
- Fine lines around the mouth
Wrinkles that are caused by sun damage and gravity likely will not respond to Botox injections. Botox is not a facial filler, it simply relaxes the muscles that are causing wrinkles. Botox is not permanent and typically last between 4-6 months. As fine lines and wrinkles begin to reappear, the area can be treated again. Overtime, as injections are repeated, fine lines and wrinkles may begin to slightly fade on their own as the muscles are being trained to stay relaxed.
Be sure to set up a consultation with the dermatologists at K2 Dermatology located in Boulder to discuss all of your options and if Botox injections are right for you!
