While botulinum toxin, the root toxin used to make BOTOX cosmetic is by no means a new toxin, its usefulness in the medical and cosmetic fields was not discovered until the 1960s. At this time, Dr. Alan Scott, an ophthalmologist and researcher Edward Schantz started researching using botulinum toxin treatments. This initial research led to innovations in treating strabismus, which causes the eyes to appear crossed. As the decades passed, further research enabled scientists and doctors to find new uses for BOTOX, including to reduce temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) and to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. The first official studies on the effects of BOTOX in wrinkle reduction were published in the late 1980s.

Mechanism of Action

BOTOX only works on dynamic wrinkles. These are wrinkles present when a muscle contracts, such as the facial muscles in your forehead. By keeping these muscles from contracting, our BOTOX Chicago Loop patients can achieve a smoother-looking face.

The ability for BOTOX to minimize excessive muscle contraction has opened up the possibilities to treat a number of conditions. Physicians currently use BOTOX to treat more than 20 medical disorders, including chronic migraines, overactive bladder and cerebral palsy.

How Long Does BOTOX Last?

BOTOX is not a permanent solution to wrinkle reduction. The body ultimately absorbs some of the toxin, which can return the wrinkles to their previous appearance. The duration BOTOX lasts differs from person to person. Typically, an injection will last anywhere from three to six months.

When BOTOX is injected, it can take anywhere from three to seven days to take full effect. Once the facial muscles become accustomed to relaxing, patients often can take longer durations between injections.

Ready to experience a younger-looking you through BOTOX? Call our Chicago Loop dermatologist's office at (312) 861-3911 to schedule an appointment.