Botox first began to be used in 1980 to treat many muscle disorders such as lazy eye, eye ticks and uncontrolled blinking. Cosmetics treatments were pioneered by dermatological surgeons in 1987. In small doses, Botox works by paralysing the muscles of the face which are used in frowning and raising the eyebrows. When these muscles relax, the fine lines and wrinkles smooth out.

Injections take effect about three to seven days after treatment and the effect lasts three or four months. With repeated treatments, atrophy or thinning of the muscles occurs, which produces longer lasting results. Botox may be unsuitable for use around the mouth as the muscles there are important for facial expressions and eating.