What is it, really?

We often read in entertainment news about stars alleged to have had Botox injections to look younger. Then, we wonder; since the celebrities have done it and are still alive and gorgeous, why not try it?

What is being injected is botulinum toxin, a protein extracted from a bacteria. Apart from ageing, wrinkles also result from excessive frowning, especially so in our busy lifestyles. Botox ® Cosmetic reduces the activity of these muscles, hence reducing the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles.

How long does the results last?

Results are obvious in just a few days. Botox® can last up to four months, with follow-up and maintenance treatments two to three times a year. Additional treatments actually prolong the smoothening effects so that re-visits to your doctor gradually become less frequent.

Is it safe?

The answer is, yes, botox injections are safe, if and only if they are the Botox® brand manufactured by Allergen. Since its first use in 1989, no permanent side effects have been reported. The only side effects which may happen are temporary soreness and minor bruising, which is inevitable since it is after all an injection. These will not disrupt the patient's schedules and appointments.

The safety of the injections and the cosmetic result also depends on the physician's skill and judgment. Botox® must thus be administered by reliable physicians.

What is it used for?

Botox is widely used for wrinkle reduction, muscle reduction in terms of relaxing jaw muscle for smaller jaws, as well as shrinking of pores with the use of micro-botox for a more refreshed complexion. Its other medical effects have expanded its use beyond that of the cosmetics. Botox® has already been approved for treatment of various neurological disorders, and several clinical trials are ongoing to explore further the medicinal potential of Botox®. Links between Botox® and reduced frequency of headaches have also been established from patient data.

· Non-surgical facial sculpturing
· Wrinkles / Expression lines
· Enlarged pores (micro-botox)