Beauty Article

In general
Botox is the brand name for a botulin toxin type A
of which there are subtypes. The type B variety (BTX-B) is known as Neurobloc in the E.U. or Myobloc in the U.S.A. Both are employed in medical and/or therapeutic purposes. Botox itself is more popularly known for it's non-surgical cosmetic function. It is also known as Vistabel in the E.U. and Dysport.

In the 1950s
although experimented with much earlier
very small injections of botulin toxin type A (BTX-A) were used to decrease overactive muscle activity. In that same period
it was experimented with in cosmetic treatments. In 1989
in the U.S.
Allergan Inc. got approval from the F.D.A. and named their drug Botox. Approval for its cosmetic use came in 2002
when researchers discovered is cosmetic effects.

Technically speaking
botulin toxin type A (BTX-A) is produced by bacteria. Once processed
its injection serves to interfere with nerve impulses
amongst other things. As such
it has come to serve many purposes in non-surgical cosmetic treatment
namely the removal of lines. However
its effects are not permanent
so future injections may be required.

It has been used to treat glabellar lines (the appearance of severe frown lines between the eyebrows)
excessive underarm sweating
spasticity
muscle disorders
and even obesity. The study of other treatments using Botox remain ongoing.

Botox is usually considered a prespcription drug that needs to be administered by a qualified physician. For this reason
it's recommended that it be done in a controlled setting
i.e. a doctor's office. In this way
any possible immediate side effects can be monitored by the administering physician. For this reason
among others
so-called "Botox parties" are not recommended.

Apparently in the U.S.
Botox is licenced for use in single-use vials. In other words
it's prescribed for use for a single person. The vials do not contain anything that can prevent contamination if repeatedly used for more than one person. However
this is how many individuals aim to lower the cost of the injections
besides undergoing the injections in a more social atmosphere.

Unfortunately
the consumption of alcohol in such an environment can defeat the purpose of the injections. After receiving an injection
it's recommended that the individual: not rub their face and stand up straight for several hours. Both are meant to prevent the Botox from moving outside of the targeted area. Here
one of the most commonly know side effects are droopy eyelids. This is because the muscles controlling the eyelids have become paralyzed. However
this side effect is normally considered to last only a few days.

Regardless
as Botox comes from a neurotoxin
much care must be taken with its use as in any treatment. You should also consult the physician regarding the required frequency of injections. This may be anywhere between four to eight months
but no less than three.