Wrinkles are a natural part of the aging process, but certain skin types and lifestyles can sometimes produce deeper, more noticeable wrinkles earlier in life. If you have "crows' feet" - the wrinkles that spread outward from the corner of the eyes - or "frown lines" between the eyebrows, Botox treatments from your Solvang and Santa Barbara, CA dermatologist might be exactly what you need to look and feel young again. Our medical professionals at Santa Barbara Skin Care - Dr. Gary Novatt, Dr. Corey Frucht and Dr. Robert Sheffield have provided some information about this well-known cosmetic wrinkle treatment.

What is Botox?

Botox is a protein that is derived from naturally-occurring organisms. When used in a clinical setting, like at Santa Barbara Skin Care, its primary function is to stop nerve activity from reaching targeted muscles. Your Solvang and Santa Barbara dermatology professional uses a fine needle to carefully administer the Botox solution under the skin where crows' feet and frown lines appear. With the movement restricted in these muscles, the wrinkles gradually begin to disappear; the full effects of Botox are usually seen within a week or two.

Is Botox safe?

When patients hear that the name brand "Botox" is short for "botulinum toxin," many are understandably concerned about the safety of the product and procedure. While in the natural world, these organisms can be poisonous, the product used is purified and produced in a controlled laboratory setting. Since 2002, Botox has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use as a cosmetic treatment, making its ingredients regulated and its effects well-studied. Finally, when you go to a certified medical facility like Santa Barbara Skin Care for a Botox regimen, you can be sure that it will be administered by a licensed medical professional.

If you'd like to learn more about Botox, we encourage you to contact Santa Barbara Skin Care in Solvang and Santa Barbara, CA for questions or to make an appointment.