Botox - botulinum toxin - is regarded by some as the fountain of youth! 
Botox injections are being used to attain a fresh, youthful appearance. The treatment has proven to be both safe and convenient.

Botox was originally used for treating nervous twitches of the eyelid muscles. In 1987 it was sanctioned for cosmetic use.  Botox is a poisonous substance - it is a protein complex produced by the bacterium clostridium botulinum - it contains the same toxin that causes food poisoning.  However, when injected in low doses - it is a modern tool that can reduce the signs of aging!

A low dose of the toxin is injected into the facial muscles - causing temporary relaxation of those muscles.  It is usually injected into the forehead wrinkles, the vertical lines between the eyebrows, the neck and 'crows feet' in the corners of the eyes.  It is non-evasive, only takes a few minutes, requires virtually no recovery time - for results lasting 3 - 6 months.

Botox binds to nerve endings - blocking the release of acetylcholine.  By selectively interfering with the underlying muscles' ability to contract, the existing lines are smoothed out, and in most cases, nearly disappear, within a week.

Like all cosmetic surgery - some risks are involved.  Too much toxin injected, or injected into the wrong place, can result in droopy eyelid muscles which could last for weeks.

Allergic reactions rarely happen, however some botox side affects may include: headaches, respiritory infection, flu syndrome or nausea.  Some localised pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, bleeding, or bruising may be associated with the botox injections.  These would be temporary - but can last several months.

Botox treatments are becoming increasingly popular - it is ideal treatment for those who to not wish to risk surgery, or those who do not have the time to undergo complicated procedures.  It is not as radical as surgery - hence this anti-aging process appears to be much more natural.

Do be aware that new wrinkles may develop as a result of botox treatments - it has been suggested that people unconsciously recreate facial expressions where the botox has been injected - causing nearby muscles to compensate - which can create new wrinkles.

Botox cost varies - but seem to fall into $250 - $500 per session.

Botox is also used in the treatment of hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, which is caused by stimulation of the sweat glands by nerve endings.  These nerves respond to physical and mental stresses and increased body temperature associated with exercise or hot humid weather.  Botox can prevent sweating for months by blocking the release of acetylcholine from the nerve endings - that cause the glands to produce sweat.  Botox has been used to reduce sweating in the underarms, palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

Recent research suggests that botox could be used alongside chemotherapy and radiation to fight cancer.  The cosmetic treatment produced by Allergan has been found to destroy resistant cancer cells in tests on mice.

So..a lot of information is available to you..before you make the decision that botox is right for you.  Be sure to study all the latest articles and news items that this site offers before you go ahead..