Botox has become a well used cosmetic enhancement over the last few years by ridding people of age line and wrinkles; there are many myths about what it is and before a person starts a course, it is worth finding out more information. To understand exactly what it is and does, we first have to look at just how this amazing miracle of modern science came to be. Botulinum toxin was first researched back in the 1960's; It used originally for disorders of the brain.

Then a few decades later in 1989, the Federal Drug Administration in America finally approved its use to treat disorders associated with vision; patients suffering with uncontrollable blinking and crossed eyes were given this and sometimes those who suffered with wrinkles as well. In the year 2000 was given the all clear for the of treatment cervical dystonia. this disorder causes severe neck and shoulder contractions but they also permitted it to be used with other eye problems. Scientists found that if the botox drug was injected into the lines between the eyebrows it would gradually soften them and make them disappear; following this the FDA finally recognized the implications and agreed its commercial use in 2002.

When Botox is injected into the muscles of the forehead, it blocks nerve impulses which results in the weakening of the muscles that cause frowning; after a number of treatments the lines start to lessen. In many cases the lines eventually disappear completely but it can also be injected into the muscles of the face that cause crows feet, forehead lines and frown lines. The form used in these injections is one that has been cleaned up and diluted, posing no threat; these treatments are only a fraction of the true strength which, in other forms, could make us seriously unwell.

The problem is that when we laugh, cry or frown for example, lines and wrinkles appear caused by the muscles that have helped create the expression; these injections can help eliminate those lines. After years of making these expressions the wear and tear on your face begins to be noticeable and the lines start to become permanent; many cosmetic manufacturers have tried to create creams to eliminate the creases but this is the only treatment to date that can actually rid them from us. Botox paralyzes the facial muscles which means everyday expressions we use in communication and take for granted cannot be made; because facial movement is reduced, it can give a doll like appearance to the user.

Because frown line, wrinkles and facial creases have all but disappeared, it provides the user with a look of someone much younger. Whilst popular this cosmetic treatment is still very expensive for what it is; the average cost of just one injection in the United States ranges from a few hundred dollars to in excess of 1,000 dollars, depending on where the injection is used. The side-effects of regular botox use may take some time to appear as it is only a recent addition to the cosmetic surgeon's armory but for now, its use does not seem to be diminishing.

Copyright 2008 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact and the links live.