Much has been said and written over the last year about Botox, our newest ally in the never ending battle against wrinkles -- and with good reason. Its advantages have been widely discussed and celebrated: it’s safe, it’s non-surgical, it’s relatively affordable and the results are practically instanteous. For these reasons it has quickly become one of the most popular in-office procedures offered by plastic surgeons and dermatologists.

But before you book a session for yourself, you should learn more about Botox. The following Q and A will help you understand Botox better, and it will help you determine whether it’s right for you.

Q: So what is Botox?

A: Botulinum toxin was first recognized as a bacteria-borne substance that caused food poisoning. It was first used for medical purposes in the 1970’s, when researchers discovered its many healing properties. Since then, Botox has been used in the treatment of facial asymmetry due to nerve paralysis, muscle spasms of the face in quadriplegics, stuttering, and even cerebral palsy. It has also proved to be effective in decreasing excessive perspiration. The potential of Botox as a cosmetic agent, however, was discovered only recently.

Q: How does Botox work against wrinkles?

A: Botox works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles that control common facial expressions such as frowning or squinting which, over time, can encourage the formation of lines and wrinkles. As a result existing lines are smoothed out and future lines are prevented from forming. Botox has been most effective in the treatment of frown lines, furrows in the forehead, crow’s feet, neck bands, and lines along the upper lip area. Wrinkles caused by aging or sun damage, as opposed to repeated muscle contraction, will not be improved by Botox.

Q: How is Botox applied?

A: Botox is administered by a virtually painless injection. No downtime is required.

Q: How long do the results last?

A: The effects of Botox are usually noted 24 to 48 hours after the injection and last for a duration of 4 to 6 months. Treatments may be repeated as often as needed to maintain the desired effect. Some surgeons believe that the results of Botox injections are cumulative and last longer with each repeated injection.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: Botox treatments cost about $500.00 per area.

Q: What products should I use in association with Botox?

A: To enhance the results of Botox, we recommend the daily use of a Vitamin C products to reverse sun damage, such as C-Lipoic Antioxidant Serum by DermaQuest or Super Serum Advance+ by iS Clinical. You should also consider an exfoliating product to remove dead skin cells and smooth out fine lines, such as Glyco Lotion 12% by DermaQuest. Lastly, be sure to use a sunscreen to protect from damaging UV rays. Try SPF 25 Treatment Sunscreen by Innovative Skincare or Organic Sun Protection SPF 30 by DDF.