Botox is a protein made from Botulinum toxin, which the bacterium Clostridium botulinum produces. This is the same toxin that causes botulism. Botox is a toxin, but when practitioners use it correctly and in small doses, it can have benefits. It has both cosmetic and medical uses. As a cosmetic treatment, Botox injections can reduce the appearance of skin wrinkles.

Botox is a neurotoxin. These substances target the nervous system, disrupting the nerve signalling processes that stimulate muscle contraction. This is how the drug causes temporary muscle paralysis. In order for any muscle to contract, the nerves release a chemical messenger called acetylcholine at the junction where nerve endings meet muscle cells. Acetylcholine attaches to receptors on the muscle cells and causes the cells to contract, or shorten. Botox injections prevent the release of acetylcholine, which stops the muscle cells from contracting. In this way, the toxin helps the muscles to become less stiff. Wrinkles caused by sun damage and gravity will not respond to botox- the idea of botox is to prevent further wrinkles and lines from forming, which is why this is a fantastic preventative treatment. Lines that are already deep and prominent are best treated with dermal filler or skin biorevitolisers.

The feeling you'll get is a similar to that of a scratch. The treatment is very quick.

It takes 72 for the toxin to take effect, results begin to show day 3-7 and it takes 14 days for the full effects to show. The effects from Botox will last three to six months. As muscle action gradually returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to reappear and need to be treated again. The lines and wrinkles often appear less severe over a course oftreatment.- thus less botox is needed down the line.

People generally tolerate Botox injections well, and side effects are uncommon. However, depending on the reason for the injections and the person’s response, Botulinum toxin can cause some side effects including: - dry eye, following cosmetic uses - an upset stomach - numbness - mild pain, swelling, or bruising around the injection site - a headache - temporary eyelid drooping - temporary unwanted weakness or paralysis in nearby muscles

As with all treatments here at Profile + Aesthetics you may resume most normal daily activities immediately following treatments. You shall be given aftercare instructions before your visit so you can become familiar with whats expected.

Most people, over the age of 18, can receive treatment. People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a neurological disease should not use Botox. A consultation assessment will need to be carried out with Profile + Aesthetics nurse prescriber in order for any treatment to go ahead. Please get in touch to arrange your consultation.