Last Updated on October 23, 2022 by
Did you know that in 2020, there were 4.4 million cosmetic botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) injections done in the US? That makes BoNTA injections the leading minimally invasive cosmetic procedure in the country.
One of the most common forms of BoNTA injections, in turn, is Botox for smile lines. It’s an injectable proven to be generally safe and effective in reducing such signs of skin aging.
What exactly is Botox, though, and how does it work? Can anyone get these injections?
Keep reading, as we’ll answer all those questions in this short but concise guide.
Table of Contents
What Is Botox?
Botox injections contain a toxin made by a bacterium known as Clostridium botulinum. That toxin, in turn, comes from a specific BoNTA strain called onabotulinumtoxinA (ONA).
Now, that may sound scary, but Botox only uses tiny amounts of purified botulinum toxin. Moreover, it’s the first-ever BoNTA injection approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The FDA approved it for both medical and cosmetic purposes.
How Do Botox for Smile Lines Work?
When injected, the botulinum toxin in Botox acts as a neuromodulator. Neuromodulators are substances that can change how the nervous system works.
For example, according to the providers of Botox at Alinea Medical Spa, the treatment can halt movements that cause facial lines and wrinkles. It can do so by disrupting the nerve signals around the injection site. That disruption then makes the muscles in the area freeze and relax temporarily.
That’s how Botox injections cause vertical smile lines to smoothen out.
How Long Do the Effects of a Botox Injection Last?
The effects of Botox can last for up to three months if used for smoothening out smile lines and other wrinkles. However, it still depends on a person’s metabolic rate; thus, the results can last for half a year in some people.
Once the effects of the injectable wear off, you can then schedule another treatment.
How Much Is Botox?
As per a 2020 report, botulinum toxin injections, including Botox, cost $466 on average. However, your treatment’s cost will depend on the length, size, and severity of your smile lines. The longer, deeper, and bigger the affected area is, the higher your treatment cost.
Who Are Good Candidates for Botox?
Botox isn’t only for smile lines; it’s safe to use anywhere on the face, such as forehead wrinkles or crow’s feet. So, if these issues make you feel self-conscious, you might want to consider Botox.
However, experts advise pregnant women against getting botulinum injections. That’s because there’s not enough data to confirm if the injectables are safe for them. As such, it’s best to delay treatment if you’re pregnant or planning for pregnancy.
Smile Without Worries With the Help of Botox Injections
Botox for smile lines can help bring back a more youthful appearance to your smile. Best of all, it’s safe for most people, and you can even get it alongside other treatments, such as dermal fillers.
So, if you’d like to reduce the signs of aging on your face, consider going with Botox. Just be sure to undergo the treatment from certified and licensed skincare experts.
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