You probably think of botox as a treatment for fine lines and wrinkles, but did you know it has a plethora of other uses? Botox is a low-dose toxin injection that works with your neurological system to relax the muscles that cause wrinkles. The toxin that creates Botox comes from the botulism microbe and has been adapted to be safely used for medicine. Since its conception, the FDA has approved Botox to treat migraines, muscle spasms in the neck, eyelid spasms, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and bladder dysfunction. However, as dermatologists, we have some off-label usages of Botox.
WHAT ARE THE OFF LABEL USES OF BOTOX?
Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)
The FDA has approved Botox injection only for underarm hyperhidrosis. Unfortunately, hyperhidrosis can affect the hands, feet, scalp and other body parts. When botox is injected into the sweat glands of the underarms, it works by blocking the chemical signals being sent to the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands. The result is reduced sweating in the areas injected, which is temporary but can last up to 6 months.
Eyebrow Lift
Although it doesn’t compare to a more dramatic surgical brow lift, when a neurotoxin, such as Botox, is injected into muscles around the eye that pull the eyebrows down, the result weakens those muscles and elevation of the eyebrows.
Lip Flip
The lip flip has gained popularity in recent years to create a fuller pout by rolling the lip upward. Another advantage of this lip injection is it can help with the fine lines around the mouth. For more dramatic results, it can be used in combination with a lip filler.
Scarring
Studies have shown that Botox can reduce scar width and bumpiness if injected immediately post-op.
Acne
Botox can be injected into active acne lesions to reduce oil secretion, leading to fewer and less intensive breakouts. Unfortunately, the treatment isn’t for everyone and still requires further clinical trials for safety and efficacy.
WHO CANNOT RECEIVE BOTOX?
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Those who have a neurological disease
- Individuals who have an allergy to albumin
- Individuals who have infections, skin conditions or weakness in the area being treated
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
A doctor administers Botox treatments in small doses. If you are using Botox treatments for non-cosmetic treatments, you can expect the dosage to be a bit larger. The procedure is simple and usually does not result in excessive discomfort; however, you should note that each treatment will require different injections and dosages for various purposes.
Before the Procedure
Before the procedure, your dermatologist will sit down with you to discuss your skin care goals and needs. From this consultation, your dermatologist will determine the:
- Appropriate and customized treatment for the areas you want to address
- Amount of treatments needed for the area(s)
This procedure will deliver high-quality results when you receive treatment from a licensed dermatologist.
During the Procedure
This procedure should last 10-minutes. Your dermatologist may numb the area with ice or topical numbing cream.
Your dermatologist will then inject the treatment areas.
After the Procedure
The good news is that Botox has minimal downtime. Patients can return to their daily routines immediately and will begin noticing results within two weeks. Results can vary by patient but will last up to four months. Your dermatologist will recommend your follow-up appointment based on your goals.
Though Botox is generally deemed safe, you should know that the process comes with some risk. Botox treatments can present some mild, temporary symptoms like pain and swelling of the injection site, headache or flu symptoms, facial irregularities like droopy eyes, crooked smile and eye dryness and watering. It is also essential to recognize that Botox is a temporary treatment. To continue seeing the benefits of Botox, you must keep up with injections. In some cases, it is advisable to regulate how often you seek treatment to avoid building up a tolerance to Botox over time. Frequent or prolonged use of Botox can cause the efficiency of treatment to diminish over time.
BOTOX AT THE DERMATOLOGY CENTER FOR SKIN HEALTH, PLLC
Botox is a powerful tool that can be used to treat a wide array of conditions. This simple treatment is not only cosmetic but clinically proven to reduce symptoms of several dysfunctions that affect your daily life. Botox treatment is fast-acting and straightforward. If you are unsure of how to seek botox treatments or have any other skin-related questions, give us a call at (304) 598-3888 or click here. We look forward to hearing from you!
