What is Botox?
Botox, short for botulinum toxin, is a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It is widely used to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles. Botox works by temporarily blocking nerve signals in the muscles where it is injected, preventing them from contracting. As a result, it helps to smooth out wrinkles and lines caused by repetitive facial expressions like frowning or squinting.
Botox injections reduce muscle contractions by blocking the signals from nerves to muscles. When the injected muscles aren’t able to contract as tightly, the skin relaxes and softens, improving the wrinkle. Botox can also prevent new wrinkles from forming and is used as a preventative treatment in younger populations but it can also help existing wrinkles from deepening and worsening.