What lengths would you go to in order to preserve your 'do? A brush? Some smoothing serum? How about a few syringes to the face?
In order to protect their $35 blowouts from destruction by summer heat or intense workouts, many women are turning to Botox injections of the scalp in order to block sweat glands. The Internet has coined the practice "blotox."
And experts say it works — as long as no one messes up.
Botulinum toxin type A (Botox) is used for a variety of procedures, such as filling wrinkles or controlling migraines. Those who sweat excessively due to hyperhidrosis are sometimes prescribed Botox injections for their hands and underarms.
"Essentially the way Botox works is it decreases the nerves stimulation of the sweat glands, similar to the way that it blocks stimulating the muscles," dermatologist Dr. Jessica Weiser explained to Mashable.
But for those who simply want to combat hair frizz, Dr. Weiser describes the process: A dermatologist uses a tiny 32-gauge needle to inject about 100 units of Botox around the scalp. Apparently, it feels like 100 little bee stings — over 30 minutes.
(For comparison, 20 units are typically needed for frown lines.)
Results are almost immediate, but pain, swelling and bruising can ensue.
One session can cost up to $2,000, according to xoJane. That's the equivalent of about 57 professional blowouts (minus tip).
After four to eight months, the body wears down the effects of Botox; another injection session would be required to maintain effectiveness.
Botox in the scalp is not yet FDA-approved, and the procedure itself comes with a few risks. For starters, certain muscles on the scalp are specific to the face, so dermatologists need to be careful not to go too far down the face or too close to the temple. Otherwise, it could compromise facial movement or cause drooping eyelids.
The Botox unit itself needs to be properly diluted, and injections evenly spaced between many blood vessels. Botox can be dangerous if it enters the bloodstream. The whole process should be supervised by a licensed nurse or physician.
There is no current evidence that shows resulting hair loss or growth from Botox injection, according to Dr. Weiser.
She recommends the procedure if sweating drastically interferes with your job performance or lifestyle, such as men who sweat profusely from their brow during a nerve-wracking meeting.
Penny James of Penny James Salon in New York approves of blotox to protect a blowout from an intense, otherwise sweaty workout.
Although effective, the hefty price of blotox (financially and physically) mirrors the heavy influence of our society's beauty standards.
If you prefer not to go under the needle, James suggests applying some antiperspirant along the hairline before moderate workouts, or spraying your head down with dry shampoo afterward. Cheap, quick and safe.
Fuente: mashable.com
