The Surprisingly Interesting History of Botox

Botox is one of the most widely known methods for reducing or preventing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s a method that relies on the injection of a special substance (botulinum toxin) that, once beneath the surface of the skin, freezes the muscles that cause wrinkles when they contract. In addition to providing a more youthful appearance, Botox is also used to treat migraines, eye twitching, excessive sweating, and more.

So you know a little bit about Botox, but what about its origin story? It’s surprisingly interesting. Keep reading to learn more about how this favorite little cosmetic procedure came to be. 

Botulinum Toxin – Its Humble Beginnings 

Botulinum toxin, the stuff that we know as “Botox”, was first tested out in the 1970s as a way to treat crossed eyes. As far as medicine goes, it is also notable because it was the first time that a microbial injection was used to treat disease. But, when scientists were performing this experiment on monkeys, they noticed a surprising side-effect – that monkeys who had received these injections had reduced wrinkles in the area between the eyes and nose. 

Still, botulinum toxin wouldn’t be approved by the FDA for the treatment of lines in this area until 2002. The first FDA-approved use for the substance was in the treatment of crossed eyes and eye twitching in 1989. 

Today, botulinum toxin is FDA-approved for the following uses:

• Crossed eyes and eye twitching
• Cervical dystonia, or neck spasms
• Glabellar lines (“frown lines”)
• Excessive sweating
• Chronic migraines
• Upper lip spasms
• Urinary incontinence
• Crows feet

A doctor may use their judgment to determine whether or not Botox would be effective in treating wrinkles in other areas of the face.

Is Botox Right for You?

If you are considering Botox treatments for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, you should know this is a very safe and trusted procedure that nearly 10,000 million Americans undergo annually. Do not hesitate to speak with your dermatologist, doctor, or Botox-certified dentist about this procedure. 

Meet the Practice

Gerome and Patrice Family Dentistry welcome new and existing patients to their state-of-the-art dental practice. In addition to a full menu of general dentistry services, they are happy to offer patients certain cosmetic treatments including Botox. To learn more about this treatment, including whether or not it is a good option for turning back the clock on your fine lines and wrinkles, get in touch with their office at (513) 677-1349.