For people wanting a more youthful appearance, BOTOX has been a trusted companion for decades. From smoothing fine lines and wrinkles to boosting confidence, it has become an accessible way to dip into the fountain of youth. But have you ever wondered where BOTOX came from? Read on to learn the fascinating origins of this cosmetic marvel. What you find may surprise you!
The Discovery of “Sausage Poisoning”
Believe it or not, the origin of BOTOX stretches back to the end of the Napoleonic Wars. A German physician named Justinus Kerner discovered the source of an outbreak of “sausage poisoning” that had killed scored of people after they ingested sausage of dubious quality. The deadly toxin was later isolated in 1895 by Emile Pierre van Ermengem, a Belgian scientist who dubbed it clostridium botulinum (A.K.A botulinum toxin.)
BOTOX: The Failed Bioweapon?
In the 1960s an American scientist working for the US military named Dr. Edward Schantz crystalized the toxin with the hope to use it as a biological weapon. However, processing it for that purpose was both difficult and questionable.
In the 1970s, an ophthalmologist named Scott Frank started testing botulinum toxin as a treatment for strabismus (crossed eyes.) The FDA eventually approved the substance after successful tests and promising results on human subjects.
The Modern BOTOX Brand
By the1980s, the botulinum toxin was gaining traction as a treatment for multiple ocular and physiological disorders. Dr. Jean Carruthers, an ophthalmologist and her husband, dermatologist Dr. Alastair Carruthers, accidentally stumbled on another use. By injecting it into the areas around their patient’s eyes, it smoothed out wrinkles! After this discovery, BOTOX as a brand truly began.
So, was this the origin story you expected? From toxin to treatment, BOTOX has had a long and strange arc through history. Today, it’s still providing a safe and effective way to tighten facial features and restore a youthful appearance. If you want to experience this revolutionary treatment for yourself, contact your dentist and ask for a consultation!
About the Practice
If you want to turn back the clock on your face and smile, Dr. A. Gary Goodman and Dr. Jeremy Goodman are highly skilled dental professionals with the technology to help. They provide quality dental care alongside cosmetic treatments like BOTOX that can help you look younger and boost your confidence. Call (410) 263-1919 to schedule a BOTOX consultation at Goodman Dental Care or visit the website to discover other treatments and services they offer.