These days, getting a shot of Botox seems to be a mainstream treatment for wrinkles. If you've been on the fence about getting it done, then you may wonder if it's time to go ahead and get the shots. Since 2002, Botox has been used cosmetically to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. While many stars view it as a less invasive way of looking younger, it still has its risks. After all, Botox is derived from the botulinum toxin, which can be fatal if ingested as a result of eating undercooked pork. Botulinum toxins paralyze muscles by blocking the signal from the brain that tells muscles to contract. When food poisoning occurs as a result, it paralyzes the nervous system and respiration, thus resulting in death. But botulinum has been used therapeutically for almost 50 years. It started as a treatment for strabismus, or crossed eyes, and has been used for excessive sweating, overactive bladder and most recently, migraine headaches.
It works on wrinkles by keeping the muscles that contract to create them slack, giving a smooth appearance. Botox only lasts 4 to 6 months, so it is a rather expensive fix for something so temporary - it averages about $500 per shot. Side effects are mild when Botox is administered correctly - the most serious side effect is eyelid drooping as the medication migrates, but experts say this can be avoided by being still for a few hours after the injection and not lying down. To avoid migration and other potentially dangerous side effects, it's important to find a licensed doctor to administer Botox.