Botox injections were the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedure of 2020. For men and women who wish to effectively erase fine lines and wrinkles, few cosmetic treatments work better.

While many people undergo cosmetic procedures without questioning what is being injected, it’s reasonable to ask yourself, “What is botox made of?” The answer may surprise you.

As we explore that query, we will answer other common questions about the popular cosmetic treatment, so read on to learn more.

What Is Botox Made Of?

Botox works differently than dermal fillers. Those injectables place biocompatible fillers at specific injection sites to reshape facial features. Some fillers promote collagen production.

You might be wondering, “Is Botox safe?” The answer is yes, but a full explanation of what exactly is placed into Botox injection sites requires some background on a potentially dangerous germ called Clostridium botulinum.

The Link Between Botox and Botulism

You may not be totally familiar with the food poisoning known as botulism. That’s because food products are carefully sealed and preserved these days. However, before the advent of pasteurization and other preventative measures, Clostridium botulinum contaminated certain types of food.

The bacteria release a neurotoxin that affects the human nervous system. In the days before food preservation, ingesting large amounts of the neurotoxin would cause severe illness or even death. Fortunately, medical science has found ways to use minuscule amounts of the neurotoxin to temporarily paralyze targeted facial nerves.

Early Uses of Botulism Neurotoxins

Initially, scientists used small amounts of the neurotoxin to address situations where muscles were involuntarily tightening. Uncontrollable eye twitching was commonly treated. Eventually, it was realized that the muscle-freezing abilities of the botulism toxin could be used to erase wrinkles.

How Botox Works

What does Botox do? The cosmetic application of the neurotoxin freezes certain muscles so they cannot contract.

No contraction, no wrinkles. It’s that simple.

Botox for men has become popular as millions of Americans have realized that the safe and effective cosmetic treatment drastically reduces or eliminates the appearance of fine lines.

What is Botox made of? Now you know. Botox forehead cost can range from several hundred dollars to more than $1,000 per treatment.

Post-Treatment Tips

It is important to know what not to do after Botox. Your skincare specialist or dermatologist will provide you with advice on how to maximize the cosmetic benefits of your Botox treatments. General skincare tips include moisturizing, avoiding excess sun exposure, and using a gentle exfoliant to cleanse your pores.

Rejuvenate Your Skin Using Botox

Anyone who undergoes Botox should understand the answer to, “What is botox made of?” Botox was FDA-approved to treat wrinkles in 2002. The safe and effective cosmetic treatment has a long track record. Tired of the same old headlines? We strike to go where others don’t. Follow our experts’ advice on everything from fashion and tech to entertainment and travel.