A11

Lorraine Cormier

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I'm not even sure if I'm allowed to be using the "B" word, but I figured I'd take my chances.

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Botox is a sometimes controversial method for younger-looking skin.

Since my columns circle around the esthetic world, I figured I would venture outside the box and a little into the medical side of esthetics.

Last time I wrote about dermal fillers. Now we are about to venture off to the number one cosmetic procedure that has hit the esthetic world, and is used by both men and women.

Botulinum has been around for a long time but was only approved by FDA in 1989 for medical use by ophthalmologists. They used it to treat eyelid spasms and patients that were cross-eyed. As they were doing these treatments patients and doctors were noticing that facial lines and wrinkles seemed to be decreasing.

Botox then became FDA approved for cosmetic procedures in 2002 and even though it has had its share of controversy, sales have not slowed down.

Botox is a protein derived from botulism toxin. How does it work? By injecting small amounts into the area being treated the nerve signals are being blocked and prevents the contraction of the muscles. Deeper lines may not all disappear but a person appears more relaxed, not as tired, more refreshed and of course it makes us look a few years younger. (I'm all for that).

There are different areas that botox can be injected such as between eyebrows, forehead and crows feet to name a few. Some of the side effects from these injections are mild swelling for a few hours and sometimes bruising.

Botox can also be used for migraine headaches, and even for excessive sweating. In some cases, these treatments can be covered by medical insurances.

I once worked for a dermatologist who did botox. While I was there the newspaper called to do a article on botox. The doctor asked me if I was interested in having botox (free, of course) and then have before and after pictures taken.

She did injections in my forehead, between the eyes and around the eyes and I'm telling you I was looking good. But it doesn't last forever so now I'm back to my normal self. I did like the look. No wrinkles, a few years younger, who wouldn't.

It's not even a painful experience. Just a few little pinches and in a matter of minutes (and a few hundred dollars) you're out the door.

The biggest downfall is the price. It can cost anywhere from $300 and up per area, and these injections need to be done roughly every three to four months. It is said that as you continue these treatments the muscles weaken and injections don't have to be done as often.

There is always a risk when doing the unknown to the body. You don't want to end up with a "perma-smile" or a painted on surprised look. That is why you do your homework. Check out the reputation of the person. Make sure they are in the medical field. And remember price is not always what counts the most. Just look at Joan Rivers.

* Lorraine Cormier is an esthetician who also has years of experience in the medical field. She now operates In Our Hands, a skin care and beauty consultation company. She can be reached at 855-4264 or nrhands@nb.sympatico.ca.