For some time now, Botox has been the popular injectable for treating fine lines and wrinkles on the face. And it’s easy to see why, given that it’s easy to administer, very effective, and requires little to no downtime.

But in addition to targeting concerns like crow’s feet and frown lines, there are some other surprising uses for Botox, which we will discuss later on. The thing to know is that no matter where it’s used on the body, Botox has always done the same thing. That is, when it’s injected into the body, it blocks nerve endings from absorbing certain molecules they need to work.

Difference Between Botox Cosmetics and Botox

Botox Cosmetics is an onabotulinumtoxinA and became popular in the 1990s as a cosmetic treatment for facial wrinkles. But it wasn’t until the early 2000s when it was approved by the FDA for treating frown lines. As an anti-aging treatment, those who have yet to experience it probably know someone who can attest to its effectiveness.

It’s also available as another product, simply called Botox. Although not approved for wrinkles, there are surprising uses for Botox. In fact, it was approved in 1989 for crossed eyes as well as eyelid spasms.

Surprising Uses For Botox

Now that you know a little history and the difference between Botox Cosmetics and Botox, let’s discuss some of the surprising uses of simply Botox. Some of the problems that Botox treats are aesthetic, others are not. Nonetheless, it improves quality of life for many issues such as the following.

01. Chronic Migraines

Officially designated as pain for at least 15 days a month, Botox is the only FDA-approved injectable for chronic migraines. And the more frequent the migraines, the better Botox works. So, what about patients who have less than 15 headaches per month? In this case, they should seek remedies other than Botox.

02. Eye Twitching

While testing the neurotoxin to treat eye spasms, scientists noticed the smoothening out of the skin between the eyebrows. This effect paved the way for it to be revered for cosmetic uses. Botox for blepharospasm involves injecting the surrounding eye area. Like other treatment areas, injections for eye twitching using Botox requires re-injection, as results last roughly three to four months.

03. Excessive Sweating

Botox is also effective in treating excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). The injections block the nerve signals which tell the area to sweat. It prevents the sweat glands from producing too much moisture in the target areas like under the arms and the palms. Nerve-endings will return to normal after about four to six months. Consequently, additional treatments are necessary. Eventually, patients go for longer periods without treatment.

04. Treatment For Overactive Bladder

The bladder muscle is flushed with local anesthesia. Then, Botox is injected into the bladder muscle. Because the bladder is now numb, it makes the injections more comfortable. Next, a catheter is is passed up the urethra into the bladder. And lastly, a tiny needle is positioned through the scope to make several injections, allowing Botox to spread throughout the bladder. Unfortunately, this is not a procedure we perform at Magnolia Medical & Aesthetics.

05. Teeth Grinding

According to a recent study, people who grind and clinch their teeth during sleep can now find relief with Botox injections. Also known as ‘bruxism’, this condition can lead to headaches, jaw issues, and pain. When Botox is injected into chewing muscles in the cheek area, it reliably blocks these impulses for most patients.

06. Gummy Smile

A gummy smile look is when the upper gums are too exposed. Most individuals dealing with this condition are often self-conscious about smiling. While some orthodontists and dentists ofter treatments for this condition, they are generally expensive surgeries, as well as invasive.

On the other hand, injecting Botox on either side of the mouth is an effective non-surgical treatment to reduce a gummy smile appearance. The lips cover up the gums because the injections relax the muscles. As a result, patients enjoy a more pleasing smile.

Although an excellent solution to a gummy smile, this is not one of the surprising uses for Botox we provide at Medical Medical & Aesthetics.