BOTOX® Cosmetic is the well-known name of the prescription medicine made by Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company, but also often colloquially used to describe a group of neuromodulators that soften muscles. It’s comparable to using the phrases ‘soda’ or ‘pop’ or ‘coke’ instead of the specific brands such as Coca Cola® or Pepsi®.
The product is made from Clostridium Botulinum which is a naturally found bacterium substance. It is processed in the lab and the different companies have attached different proteins which allows them to differentiate themselves. Overall, all the ‘Botox’ products act through similar mechanisms in the facial muscles.
BOTOX® Cosmetic, Dysport®, and Xeomin® are all FDA-approved neuromodulators made from Clostridium Botulinum Type A. They have a similar mechanism of action and duration, but the concentration and unit dosing are different. Each of these effectively reduce moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines, though BOTOX® Cosmetic is currently the only option that is FDA-approved to treat all three areas.
Jeuveau® and Daxxify® are both newer cosmetic injectable neurotoxins. Each may be an appropriate alternative to the aforementioned neuromodulators. Jeuveau® and Daxxify® are currently FDA-approved to treat frown lines between the eyebrows. Daxxify®, the newest neurotoxin option, claims to have a longer duration based on a protein modification, but it does present at higher price point per unit.
How Long Do Injectable Neurotoxins Last & What Is Cost?
This is a common question. Although it does vary by individuals and neurotoxin injectables, the average duration of results is about three to six months.
Some individuals will have a longer lasting effects, some slightly shorter. In certain individuals such as runners or weightlifters, the product may be metabolized slightly quicker. It is important to note that the product is used to soften wrinkles, not completely eliminate them.
As for the cost, every practice sets their own fee schedule. Some places charge by unit, others by area. At A New You Plastic Surgery & Laser Center, we use a per unit fee system. Your costs will be determined after consultations with board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Shah.
Why Should Injectable Neurotoxins Be Part Of Your Beauty Regimen?
When you are unhappy with the common signs of aging, including wrinkles around the eyes and forehead, prominent lines that are sometimes etched in the forehead, and a skin dullness, ‘Botox’ treatments, especially in combination with a good diet, exercise, and skin care, help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and create a glow to the skin.
When used appropriately, patients can look much younger, refreshed, and most importantly, look natural. Our goal is not to create a frozen, expressionless face, but rather harmony and refreshment.
What Parts Of The Face Do Wrinkle-Reducing Injectables Treat?
The most common reason to inject ‘Botox’ is for wrinkles, specifically the glabella or “11”, which are lines between the eyebrows. Other popular areas are wrinkles around the eyes called crow’s feet and forehead.
Are There Other Uses For Injectable Neurotoxins Besides Treating Wrinkles?
There are several off-label uses of each neuromodulator, such as neck bands, upper lip, and jowls. Additionally, some patients may get ‘Botox’ treatments for headaches or jaw pain due to clenching.
Currently BOTOX® Cosmetic, Dysport®, and Xeomin® are the only wrinkle-reducing treatments FDA-approved to treat migraines. Additionally, Botox® has been FDA-approved to treat underarm sweating.
When Should I Start Getting Wrinkle-Reducing Injectable Treatments And What Is There Preventative Use?
Cosmetic neurotoxin wrinkle-reducing treatments have an indication for patients above 18 years, and I see patients in their mid-to-late 20s and early 30s who are at a good age for preventative treatment. That being said, I usually treat active lines or wrinkles which usually start in the 30’s-40’s. Adjunct treatments such as retinol-based skin care help reduce fine wrinkles in all age groups.
Are Injectable Neurotoxins Safe?
Each neurotoxin has a well-established safety record with some instances of mild and temporary adverse effects (e.g., redness, bruising). However, it is important to note that you must choose a provider who has been trained to inject neurotoxin and uses brand-name products.
Do you live in or around Orland Park or Oak Lawn and are ready for a ‘Botox’ consultation?
