Botox is a naturally occurring protein. It is manufactured in the laboratory from bacteria called Clostridium botulinum.

Used in small, precise doses, this protein has been used to relax muscles all over the body for more than 20 years. Some of its medical applications, for example, are to treat eye spasms, contracted muscles in cerebral palsy and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).

Botox was approved for cosmetic use in 2002, and has since been used for millions of cosmetic procedures worldwide.

During a Botox procedure, several small injections are made into the muscles where fine lines and wrinkles appear. This Botox protein fits exactly into receptors in the nerve endings of those muscles. This prevents the release of a chemical known as acetylcholine, which makes muscles contract and move.

Relaxing these muscles will help smooth the wrinkles - such as frown lines and crow's feet - that are caused by repeated muscle contraction.

Relaxing muscles in your face can improve your appearance in a number of ways. Botox prevents repetitive creasing of the skin; allowing the body's natural repair process to lay down collagen across a wrinkle, reducing its depth. Muscles that pull the eyebrows down can be released, allowing a flattering upward lift. Frowning muscles which are fixed in a negative expression can be relaxed, making the face look happier.  Most importantly a natural look after Botox takes great care and precision in injecting the Botox in precisely the right anatomical area.  If this is not done precisely the results can look false or even worse can lead to relaxation of the wrong muscles which could leave the face looking frozen.

While Botox does not completely eradicate the signs of ageing, it can greatly reduce the appearance of moderate to severe wrinkles, and even prevent new ones from forming. The skin often appears smoother and more youthful-looking. If you tend to frown a lot, perhaps without realising it, then Botox can help you look happier and more relaxed.

Botox is approved for cosmetic use from the age of 18. It can be used as a preventative measure to prevent lines and wrinkles from developing; however most Botox clients are treating lines they already have.

Certain areas of the face often develop wrinkles or deep lines as a result of making the same facial movement, many thousands of times, over the years.

Botulinum toxin can be used to treat crow's feet, frown lines, forehead lines, lip lines and other common 'wrinkle zones'. Botox can also be used to lift areas of the mouth, chin and neck.

Botox is also approved to treat excessive sweating of the armpits, called hyperhidrosis. With a series of injections to the armpit area, it can reduce stains and odour, and eliminates the need for antiperspirant for 6-12 months. Botulinum toxin can also be used in the treatment of migraines and sweating of the palms.

What's the difference between Botox and 'botulinum toxin'?

Botox is the registered trade name for botulinum toxin. The trade name is allowed to be used when describing a number of FDA-approved uses - namely crow's feet, horizontal forehead lines, frown lines, and armpit sweating. For all other uses, the non-trademark phrase 'botulinum toxin' is used.

The product and the procedure is the same - the only difference is whether the trademark name can be used or not.

Botox is injected using a disposable syringe with a very fine needle. It is not too painful, and you don't need a local anaesthetic. Some people describe the sensation as a tiny sting or pinch which only lasts a few seconds.

The treatment itself takes around 15 minutes, but we prefer 30-minute appointments at Palm Clinic so we can ensure all your needs are fully discussed. You can go back to work or resume your normal activities straight away but we recommend avoiding the gym until the next day. You may notice a little swelling or redness for 10 minutes afterwards.

Botox starts taking effect in 2-3 days, and is fully 'settled in' at 14 days. Full dose treatments usually last four months. As the Botox is gradually broken down by the body's own natural processes, the muscle movement returns. Movement and wrinkles gradually return over this time.

Most of our clients have an ongoing treatment programme, because they like the results and want to maintain the improvement in their appearance. However some people do schedule a Botox treatment for a one-off event such as a wedding.

For maximum wrinkle reduction, most of our clients return three times a year to maintain the improvement in their appearance. After a couple of years of regular use, you may be able to reduce this to twice a year.

Botox procedures are not recommended for pregnant or lactating women, people with infections in the area to be treated, and those with certain neurological conditions. You should also tell your Palm Clinic doctor about any medications you are taking. Botox has a long track record of safety having been used in medical situations for well over 20 years.

The majority of people experience no side effects from their Botox treatment. Some people may experience minor and temporary side effects - such as a slight headache after treatment, or a tiny bruise at the site of the injection. The most significant complication, which is rare, is a drooping of the eyelid which typically lasts 2-3 weeks after treating the frown lines.

Your Palm Clinic doctor will explain the risks and possible side effects of Botox at your initial consultation.

The cost of Botox will depend on the number of units of Botox used. Charges start at $22 per unit including gst. To give you an idea, a frown area may need 20 units. Your Palm Clinic doctor will work out the right number of units for you, and discuss the total cost before proceeding, so there are no surprises.