The strive to keep ourselves looking young and full of life has led to an increase in the popularity of many forms of cosmetic surgery procedures.
One of which is the procedure of Botox that has made leaps and bounds in popularity and more importantly, availability.
Once very exclusive, Botox is now perceived as more than just a cosmetic procedure, now featuring as a part of many women's and indeed men's daily beauty routines.
It just seems like everybody is doing it.
Botox is being accepted more and more as a treatment for anti-ageing and is becoming increasingly affordable to a vast array of different people.
Women and men around the world see Botox as a means of counter-acting the effects of ageing and so more and more young patients are using Botox as a method of anti-wrinkle and anti-ageing in a bid to fight the ageing process early.
So, what is Botox? Botox is a protein that has been purified that operates by preventing the breakdown of collagen in the facial muscles which, over time, degrade through the use of our facial muscles through expression and speech.
Through the breakdown of collagen, skin can begin to sag and wrinkles begin to appear.
Botox simply freezes the tiny muscles that are located around the face thus countering this process.
If there are still any doubts as to the safety of the procedure then potential patients have nothing to fear as specialist clinics ensure a high degree of competence and safety in the people conducting the procedure.
You can ask to see a certificate of competence, which shows the person has been trained in all aspects of the procedure.
It is very much advised that you do seek a clinic that has a good reputation and plenty of prior knowledge on the procedure.
Rogue practitioners are not advised as complications can occur if a specialist clinic is not used.
The government's new Treatments You Can Trust register makes it much easier to find a safe, reputable clinic.
Botox is not just seen as a potential anti-ageing procedure though, with many people using Botox to combat issues they have with profuse sweating.
This can counter the problems of over-sweating and embarrassing wet patches and works in the same way as a normal procedure does on the facial muscles but instead under the armpits or even the soles of the feet.
The main reason this is so popular is because it is quick, convenient and results are lasting.
In some cases the results can last up to a year with the effects of the procedure, becoming apparent instantly.
The effects of Botox are not permanent however and in order to keep the full effects of the procedure, return trips to the clinic will be required.
Patients usually visit a clinic 2-3 times a year for a repeat procedure depending on how long the Botox lasts.
The effects have been well documented, and it is clear to see why so many people are going to their local clinic to have Botox.
There are no bandages after the procedure has been completed, meaning that you can immediately return to your normal everyday life, with no fear of having to take time off work or suffer any ill effects.
Many turn to Botox as a means of looking more youthful without having to go as far as plastic surgery.
Treatment costs do vary and you should enquire at a local clinic for more information if you are looking to have the procedure.