filling a syringe with botox

Treat Your Skin Concerns with Botox® in Pittsburgh

Botox® is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments used to improve signs of aging and smooth out lines and wrinkles. In fact, it’s estimated that over 11 million people have received Botox® injections. Still, many people don’t know the history of this procedure, or just how many benefits of Botox® there actually are.

Whether you already have had injections or are considering getting Botox® in Pittsburgh, you may want to know a bit more about its fascinating history and how its meteoric rise in popularity has led us here.

What Is Botox®?

Botox® is made from Botulinum toxin, which is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Because Botox® is a toxin, it should only be injected in small doses and by a trained professional that offers the best Botox® near you, like at Cosmetic Laser Centers. Note that it can be used both cosmetically and medically.

Don’t be afraid of the name! These injections are safe when performed by a licensed master injector to help you rejuvenate your skin’s appearance and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

How It Works

Botox® is a neurotoxin that targets the body’s nervous system. Once injected with a fine needle, it blocks the nerve signals that are responsible for muscle contraction. It also affects the body’s pain and inflammatory mediators. Botox® is not a permanent solution, and it eventually wears off over time. However, results typically last about three to four months.

The Start of Botox®

Botulism toxin was first discovered in the 1820s by a German scientist named Dr. Justinus Kerner while studying individuals who died from food-borne botulism. He noticed the neurological effects of the toxin, including muscle weakness, drooping eyelids, and paralysis and respiratory failure. These discoveries developed an understanding of prevention and treatment, while also paving the way for how we use it today.

How It Has Evolved

In the 1890s, more research was conducted on botulism and its connection to Clostridium botulinum. Seven strains of botulism toxin were discovered, four of which caused human illness. Shortly after, botulinum toxin was named one of the most dangerous substances in the world, and in that time period, before we knew how to use it properly, it likely was. During World War II, the U.S. even considered using the toxin as a biological weapon.

Thankfully, research continued throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Dr. Edward Schantz was able to purify botulinum toxin A, and eventually, an incredible discovery was made: small doses could reduce muscle spasms and treat crossed eyes. In 1989, Botox® became FDA-approved as a treatment method for eye muscle concerns, like crossed eyes and eye spasms.

The other benefits of Botox® weren’t discovered until Dr. Jean Carruthers treated a patient for eyelid spasms and realized the toxin had also inadvertently reduced forehead lines.

In 2002, Botox® became FDA-approved for cosmetic use. Since then, it has become the top nonsurgical procedure to treat aging skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s also been FDA-approved to treat a variety of medical issues.

Is Botox® Safe?

Botox® is FDA-approved for both cosmetic and medical use, making it completely safe when injected in small doses by a licensed healthcare provider. After your treatment, it’s normal to experience swelling and bruising at the injection site. Swelling should reside within an hour, and bruising will improve within a few days or weeks.

Botox® requires minimal downtime for recovery; most of our patients report that they can return to their normal daily activities the same day.

The Benefits of Botox®

There are several benefits of Botox®, from both a cosmetic and medical standpoint. It’s incredibly versatile, and although it’s primarily used on the face, Botox® can also be injected into other areas of the body.

Many patients seek Botox® to reduce their facial lines and wrinkles, resulting in a renewed, younger-looking appearance. The most popular treatment areas are frown lines between the eyebrows, forehead lines, and lines around the eyes. Botox® can even be used alongside dermal fillers to meet your skincare goals, with optimal results appearing in about two weeks.

Learn More About Botox® in Pittsburgh

Botox® is an incredible treatment with an impressive history. And if you’re looking to reduce fine lines and wrinkles on your skin, you could be the perfect candidate for Botox® in Pittsburgh.

To learn more about what it can do for your skin, book a consultation with one of our knowledgeable medical providers and master injectors. During your consultation, they’ll answer any questions you might have about Botox®, and can develop a personalized treatment plan made with your specific skin in mind. And to ensure natural-looking results, you won’t want to settle for anything less than the best Botox® near you, right here at Cosmetic Laser Centers.