Brain Freeze

A deadly poison is being injected into millions of people every year.... and they are all smiles about it. Guess what it is? Botox.

Botox is a diluted form of Botulinum a neurotoxin that is commonly injected into facial muscles to paralyze them and thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles. It can also be used, although is not approved for, other medical uses, like stopping headaches and seizures. In 1989 the drug was approved by the FDA for cosmetic use after preclinical testing that claimed Botox could not travel through the nerve cells to the brain and spinal cord.

After reading an article in the April 21, 2008 issue of Newsweek about new research on the dangers of Botox however, we were glad we were able to make a frown.

The article highlights clinical studies on the drug from 1989 to 2003 from Italy's Institute of Neuroscience. Scientists injected lab animals with the toxin, and within three days it had traveled from the muscles to the brainstem and began disrupting neural activity. While this is frightening news in itself, it becomes even more alarming when viewed alongside the number of deaths caused by Botox. There were 1437 "adverse events" associated with Botox from the studies including 28 deaths.

Fortunately, there are natural alternatives to Botox and less dangerous paths to youthful beauty that can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles.Ole Henriksen Express the Truth Wrinkle Cream is packed with nature’s most powerful anti-oxidants to inhibit deep wrinkles from forming and reducing the appearance of existing fine lines. Kimia Rejuvenation System keeps skin looking young by stimulating active and continuous cell renewal and removing existing dead skin, so the new skin cells are young and fresh. It is a favorite among celebrities like Victoria Beckham.

But guess what the most popular way to ward off aging is? Wear sunscreen! We all know the damage that the sun can do to our skin. Unprotected sun exposure can cause sun spots, premature ageing, and even skin cancer. Sunscreen with SPF is a must, and should be used everyday, even when it is not sunny outside. Kimberly Sayer Sunblock and Sante Sun Sprays and Lotions are great natural and safe sunscreens to try. For those who have already been exposed to the sun a few two many times, Ole Henriksen Sheer Transformation and John Masters Mandarin Maximum Exposure Creams are excellent products to use on sun and age spots.

With products like these available at Kaia House, who needs Botox, anyway?