Botox and Its Origins: What You Should Know

Have you considered Botox to eliminate your fine lines and wrinkles? Do you long for a more youthful appearance? You’re not alone. Each year, millions of Americans seek professional help to turn back the clock and remove any obvious signs of aging. But before you begin any facial aesthetic treatment, it’s important to learn more about the origins of this unique substance and how it came to be one of the most popular cosmetic procedures today.

What is Botox?

Also known as botulinum toxin, Botox comes from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. Too much of this substance can paralyze the muscles of your face, mouth, and throat; however, carefully monitored and distributed doses can make it possible to temporarily paralyze facial muscles and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles.

Once it is injected into the specified area (i.e., crow’s feet, glabellar lines, frown lines, etc.), the solution works quickly to cease the movement of facial muscles, allowing for a smoother appearance that doesn’t create lines or wrinkles when smiling, laughing, or frowning.

Over time, the effects of Botox wear off, which is why you will need to maintain regular follow-up appointments with your dental specialist to ensure longer-lasting results.

How Did It Originate?

Before Botox became what it is today – one of the most popular cosmetic solutions available on the market – it was originally discovered in the 1970s by a Belgian scientist who used Clostridium botulinum on monkeys to correct a problem known as strabismus (crossed eyes). Working closely with esteemed researchers, they discovered the glabellar lines of the monkey (the area between the eyebrows) became smoother and resulted in fewer wrinkles.

As a result, not only did Botox prove worthwhile in treating this common eye problem, but it also led the way for the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to approve its use for cosmetic and medical purposes.

Over the years, Botox has been approved by the FDA for:

• Correcting crossed eyes
• Treating chronic migraines
• Minimizing upper lip spasms
• Addressing urinary incontinence
• Reducing excessive sweating
• Minimizing fine lines and wrinkles (i.e., glabellar lines and lateral canthal lines)

Although it may seem as if Botox is now strictly used for cosmetic purposes, it is still a recommended method of treatment for patients living with cervical dystonia and other medical conditions that cause pain throughout the face, neck, and head.

When considering Botox, make sure to talk to your doctor about whether it is a viable option to meet your individual cosmetic or medical needs.

About the Author
Dr. Rina Singh wants her patients to look and feel beautiful year-round. Focusing on an individual’s oral health, she provides a wide array of comprehensive services designed to repair, restore, and rebuild smiles of all types. Because a healthy and attractive smile can make a big difference in a person’s life, Dr. Singh works with her patients to identify problem areas and work toward long-lasting, life-changing results. Contact us at (717) 937-8180 or visit our website to learn how Dr. Singh and her team can help you.