The Science Behind Botox

The Science Behind Botox

The use of Botox—or Botulinum Toxin—has become increasingly common in modern society for aesthetic purposes, but is also used to treat medical conditions such as migraines, spasms, and overactive bladders. Derived from the same toxin that causes a type of food poisoning known as Botulism, healthcare providers utilize a purified form to address the needs of their patients. But how exactly does injecting a (slightly poisonous) bacterial toxin into a person achieve its objective? 

First Off, The Why

While Botox injections today are typically used to relax facial muscles that cause frown lines and facial wrinkles, an array of applications for relieving symptoms of various medical conditions are available as well. While it's not a cure, Botox can help alleviate the symptoms of neck spasms, muscle spasms (dystonia), crossed eyes, lazy eyes, eyelid twitching, excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), migraines, and overactive bladders. Injections have also proven to be helpful for pain management and relief—from back and neck pain, to sciatica and arthritis—making Botox a "miracle treatment" for many.

How It Works

Essentially, Botox injections prevent targeted muscles from moving for a period of time. By sending in a neurotoxin (acetylcholine) to effectively weaken nerves and block their signals, the patient temporarily cannot use or contract the muscle or muscle grouping. Botox paralyzes and relaxes the muscles by blocking acetylcholine, resulting in the skin layers above to less prone to movement, and therefore wrinkles.