Botox Home A-Z Health Information A-Z Health Library Botox Overview Botox injections improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines by relaxing the muscles that cause them. Botox is a drug made using purified botulinum toxin. Botox injections are the most widely performed cosmetic procedures worldwide. The oldest and most well-known US FDA-approved formulation is made by Allergan, USA. Common conditions treated Botox injections improve the appearance of: Wrinkles and fine linesFrown linesCrow's feetSigns of facial ageing How is the procedure performed? Botox is administered via a minimally invasive procedure. A trained aesthetic dermatologist injects precise amounts of Botox into targeted muscles using a thin needle to relax them and improve facial appearance. Effects usually take around a week to manifest and last for 4-6 months. Duration of the procedure The injection procedure takes less than 30 minutes. Preparation of the procedure Before the procedure, certain steps help ensure safety and optimal results; these include:Blood-thinning medications should be avoided immediately before the procedure if advised by your doctor.The treatment area should be cleaned thoroughly cleansed prior to injection.Discuss your desired outcomes and any concerns with the dermatologist before the procedure. Risks/Potential side effects Like any procedure, Botox injections are associated with some potential risks:Mild swelling or redness at the injection siteBruising or minor discomfortTemporary headache or flu-like symptomsDrooping eyelids or uneven facial expression Post-procedure care and recovery Proper aftercare supports effective results and minimises complications:Results typically appear within a week and last 4–6 months.Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated areas for 24 hours.Resume normal activities immediately but avoid strenuous exercise for a day.Follow up with your dermatologist for assessment and maintenance. Disclaimer: The information in this Health Library is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any questions about a medical condition or before starting any treatment. Use of this site and its content does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. In case of a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or visit the nearest emergency facility immediately.