Whether lockdown has given you “Zoom face” or you’re simply considering taking the next step in your skincare journey, Botox is without a doubt one of the most popular–and most effective–anti-wrinkle treatments available.

In fact, in recent years, the injectable treatment has boomed in popularity (just in the United States, we spent a reported $2.95 billion on the treatment last year).

The fact is, people are curious about its wrinkle reducing abilities, increasing access seems to be some of the reasons behind the surge in popularity.

Experts are now able to use Botox to produce a wider range of results, meaning it is increasingly being used as an alternative to more invasive surgical procedures. But with more people seeking the treatment, the most important thing is to arm yourself with all the facts. What is it? How does it work? How long does it last?

What Is Botox?

Botox is a trade name for Botulinum toxin, a neurotoxic protein that temporarily paralyses muscles when injected. When Botulinum toxin is injected into a muscle underneath the skin surface, it relaxes the muscle causing the overlaying skin to appear smoother.

What Is Botox Used For?

Alongside its strong association with the cosmetics business, Botox has many other uses within modern medicine. Botox is approved for the treatment of Bruxism (teeth grinding) by relaxing the jaw muscles, and excessive sweating, known as hyperhydrosis, by blocking the nerves that control the sweat glands and many more medical conditions.

Recently, Botox was also approved to treat chronic migraines, too. But by far the most common use is as a non-surgical cosmetic treatment, to smooth wrinkles and prevent new ones from forming known as preventative Botox.

How Long Does Botox Last?

The results of Botulinum toxin start appearing only a few hours after treatment, with the full effect setting in at around the third day mark. These results last around four to six months. Botox effect is limited, usually lasts between four-to-six months and isn’t cumulative.