Botox, known as Botulinum toxin, is a neurotoxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It was discovered in the late 1890s as a food-born illness mostly from eating improperly preserved vegetables or meat. Botulism is a fatal disease of the nervous system because it causes diffuse paralysis of muscles.
Cosmetically the toxin is now injected because it temporarily paralyzes or weakens the muscle, smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines. This eliminates dynamic wrinkles and gives the skin a more youthful appearance. It is largely viewed as safe. However, there are known negative associated effects - some are transient and some are potentially dangerous. Here are some known negative effects of Botox:
- Botulinum toxins are among the most toxic poisons. It is possible to have a systemic botulinum toxin diffusion that can be life-threatening
- It can spread 45 mm from the injected muscles to adjacent muscles which can lead to paralysis of the wrong muscles — even if they are separated by fascia
- It can lead to difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, individuals may need tube feeding
- Severe debilitating headaches
- It can trigger an immune response, or allergic reaction. It can range from redness to urticaria to anaphylactic shock
- It can lower the immune system and increase risk for a herpes zoster outbreak
- It can pass the blood-brain barrier and act on the limbic and central nervous system
- It can be absorbed into the bloodstream and cause a hypersensitivity reaction
- Eyelid ptosis (droopy eyelid)
- Dry eyes, blurred vision, retinal detachment, or even corneal irritation
- Dry mouth, or difficulty opening the mouth, or asymmetry in the face that may result
- Permanent changes in facial expression
Women also report a feeling of “fuzzy” or “foggy” brain after getting Botox repeatedly. In addition, the skin takes on a dull appearance after getting Botox because muscle contraction is needed to help drain the lymphatic system. If the skin can’t eliminate toxins it won’t glow, or look as healthy.
The Good News is There is a Natural Alternative to Botox: ESTROGEN
Collagen and Elastin
To prevent wrinkles, collagen and elastin are key. Collagen helps maintain the integrity of the skin’s extracellular matrix, which consists of collagen fibers, elastin fibers, and other substances. This matrix helps the skin retain moisture and maintain its smoothness. By promoting hydration and improving skin elasticity, collagen helps prevent the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. As we age, the production of collagen decreases, leading to a loss of skin elasticity and the formation of wrinkles.
How Estrogen Prevents Wrinkles
Estrogen prevents wrinkles and helps women maintain smooth youthful skin. It does this largely by supporting collagen synthesis. Fibroblasts are specialized cells in the skin that produce collagen. Estrogen stimulates the activity of fibroblasts, promoting collagen synthesis. Estrogen also unregulated the expression of genes involved in collagen synthesis. Estrogen can also influence other components of the extracellular matrix, such as elastin and hyaluronic acid, which contribute to skin elasticity and hydration. Estrogen also increases the thickness of the epidermis, or the outermost layer of skin. This gives great resilience and texture to the skin.
How Progesterone Prevents Wrinkles
While estrogen is the primary hormone involved in stimulating collagen production, progesterone can work synergistically with estrogen to support collagen synthesis. It also promotes the production of natural oils in the skin, which can enhance moisturization and hydration. Well-hydrated skin tends to appear more plump, supple, and less prone to developing wrinkles. Progesterone can also reduce inflammation in the skin, which prevents the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers.
Estrogen and progesterone give skin thickness, radiance, tone and texture without any unwanted side-effects or adverse risks that Botox has. You can have glowing, smooth, radiant, plump skin past your 40s! Wrinkles don’t have to be a part of aging! At Inner Balance, we understand the importance of hormones in the health of skin the prevention of aging skin. You don’t need to put up with needles in the face anymore (unless you want to)!
“This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.”