Botox ®

Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are all neuromodulators that contain botulinum toxin type A, which is a purified neurotoxic protein taken from Clostridium botulinum bacteria.

These products relax wrinkles by blocking the nerve signals that cause muscle contraction. Reduced muscle contraction inhibits the facial movements that are responsible for unwanted lines and folds.

Botox is most well-known for its facial rejuvenation capabilities. It can smooth creases on the forehead and in between the eyebrows, minimize crow’s feet, and relax bands on the neck.

In addition, plastic surgeons and dermatologists use neuromodulators to non-surgically lift brows and the corners of the mouth, correct chin dimpling, and soften the jawline when injected into the masseter muscle.

Medical uses for Botox include treatment of migraines, strabismus (crossed eyes), hyperhidrosis, and abnormal muscle spasms in the face and neck.

Although Botox is the most recognizable neuromodulator, Dysport and Xeomin are also effective and have their own distinct advantages.

Botox has the competitive edge due to its longevity and loyal physician and patient base. It gained FDA-approval in 1989, and for some time, it has been the sole neurotoxin in the cosmetic market.

The FDA approved Dysport in 2009. It has less botulinum toxin in each injection, and its results may last longer because the body does not work as hard to attack it upon injection. Similarly, some Dysport users find that it has a quicker onset of 2-5 days, compared to 4-7 days for Botox.

Dysport also spreads more once injected which could be advantageous when treating larger areas. However, this dispersion could also cause adverse effects for more precise injection sites or in the hands of an unskilled injector.

Additionally, Xeomin gained FDA-clearance in 2010, and is the only neuromodulator that does not required refrigeration.

Unlike Botox and Dysport, Xeomin does not have protein-binding additives and only contains botulinum toxin.
This factor makes it less likely for patients to have an allergic reaction or become resistant to the product.

Healthy adults over the age of 18 that want to smooth wrinkles are all good candidates for Botox.

It’s also important that patients have realistic expectations about treatment results and do not have a known allergy to botulinum toxin.

First and foremost, patients should always seek a skilled injector with whom they can openly discuss their goals and medical history.

It’s also essential to avoid blood thinning medication and products two weeks before and 24 hours after treatment to minimize bruising.

Skipping the gym and alcohol for a couple of days before and after Botox is also recommended.

Depending on the number of areas being treated, most Botox procedures last 10-25 minutes.

Following the injections, patients should avoid: lying down for four hours, rubbing their face for 12 hours, and hot showers for 24 hours.

In addition, icing the injection site and sleeping on the back can help in the recovery process.

Relaxation is gradual, usually starting after 48 hours with Dysport and 72 hours with Botox, progressing over two weeks. The treatment lasts on average for three and a half to four months.

Patients note that their lines are diminished, their faces are smoother, and they look more youthful and refreshed.

These toxins are highly purified and dilute, and have proven to be extremely safe to use. The toxin is injected directly into the desired area and takes effect by decreasing the contraction of the muscle, ultimately softening and in some instances eliminating the line.

To learn more about Botox, Dysport or Xeomin, please call GlamDerm today to schedule an appointment.