08 Feb Surprising Benefits of Botox
Most people have heard of Botox (and its close cousin, Dysport). It’s one of the most popular requests at Parson Skin Center, and with good reason. Botox temporarily freezes target muscles and can eliminate frown lines or the “angry 11’s” between the eyes for months at a time. However, there are benefits beyond stopping wrinkles for three to six months at a time. Who knew Botox had so many side perks?
Wrinkles? Say Yes to Botox!
Botox is derived from botulism, but is a completely safe way to tackle lines and wrinkles that can reduce self-esteem. Many people think they should wait until wrinkles are “bad enough” to warrant Botox. That approach can sometimes backfire. For many patients, Botox can be a preventative tool. It’s been shown that those who regularly get Botox injections train the targeted muscles to weaken and atrophy. In other words, when muscles aren’t allowed to move (and produce those frown lines), they’re made weaker and unable to form such deep wrinkles even after the Botox has worn off. The earlier a person starts using Botox as a preventative tool for wrinkles, the less likely they are to develop those wrinkles at a younger age.
Alternative Uses of Botox
Botox can also be an effective tool for excessive sweating. Some patients have had Botox injected in their armpits and even the palms of their hands or soles of their feet. Botox can drastically reduce sweating, but should only be used in this way under very specific circumstances. Sweating is the body’s natural way of keeping cool. However, in some cases, Botox for sweating can be safe and effective, particularly for those who suffer from severe excess sweating.
Patients have also used Botox to help prevent and stop headaches. It’s been proven to help prevent migraines before they start. It’s estimated that Botox can stop between eight and nine headache/migraine days per month within a 24-week study. That’s compared to a placebo effect of just six to seven days. If you’ve been diagnosed with chronic headaches or migraines that last at least four hours per episode, Botox might be the drug-free alternative you’ve been looking for.
Botox continues to be one of the most well-known and effective means of stopping fine lines and wrinkles. Keep in mind that you’ll want to avoid sweating or lying down for at least four hours post-injection. The amount of “units” you’ll need depends on the number of wrinkles to be treated and their severity. For more information, call Parson Skin Center at 480-282-8386.