The Truth of Botulinum toxin (Botox) Wrinkle Treatment

BBotulinum toxin is an injection that aims to smooth out wrinkles. You may have to wait a few weeks before the injections start to work. The benefit is temporary and goes away after three or four months.

In the UK, doctors and specially-trained nurses can prescribe botulinum toxin to treat wrinkles. Other health care staff can give the injections if they’ve been properly instructed by a doctor or nurse. However, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to get this treatment on the NHS. Botulinum toxin is sometimes prescribed on the NHS for people who have muscle twitches. But you’ll need to see a doctor privately if you want it as a cosmetic treatment.

The most widely known brand name for botulinum toxin is Botox. Other brand names are:

• Dysport
• NeuroBloc
• Vistabel.

The brand that’s marketed in the UK for treating wrinkles is called Vistabel. It’s made by the same company as Botox, and in the same way. It’s recommended for treating vertical lines on the forehead, but a doctor may also suggest it for other kinds of wrinkles.

Botulinum toxin aims to reduce the movement of muscles so that they relax and smooth away wrinkles. It’s injected carefully, because the idea is to affect only the muscles that are causing wrinkles. However, the injections can sometimes affect other muscles too. This may cause side effects, like drooping eyelids or muscle weakness. If these do happen, the effect should wear off in a few months. But if you get any problems with swallowing, talking or breathing after one of these injections, get medical help straight away.