It’s 2023! The only toxic friend you need in your life is Botox. Let the rest go!
Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Jeaveau are collectively referred to as “neuromodulators” or “neurotoxins” and are all FDA-approved treatments to help soften and smooth dynamic and static wrinkles on the face.
What is a neuromodulator?
For a muscle to contract, a nerve cell must communicate with a muscle cell. A neuromodulator is a protein that blocks communication between the nerve and muscle cells which causes a relaxation or temporary paralysis of the muscle and ultimately smoother skin on the surface.
Dynamic vs Static Wrinkles
Dynamic wrinkles are seen with facial movement and expressions, such as smiling, squinting, concentrating, or laughing. As the skin begins to age and loses its structural support, dynamic wrinkles eventually become static wrinkles. Static wrinkles are fixed or etched in the skin and are a result of continuous movement and natural collagen and elastin breakdown that comes with age, sun exposure, smoking, stress, and inflammation. Patients usually begin to notice dynamic wrinkles in their early 30’s and static lines in their 40’s however living at high altitude in Colorado we tend to notice them sooner.
Signal Skin Science provides support to enhance the overall health of the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, both dynamic and static. These treatments include microcurrent (featured in our Rejuvenating Facial), gua sha, chemical peels, and microneedling. However, if you keep making the same facial expressions that result in lines, the only thing that can stop those lines is a neuromodulator. A combination of skin care and injected neuromodulators is the best way to minimize wrinkles and other signs of aging.
Botox vs. Dysport vs. Xeomin
We carry Botox, Dysport and Xeomin. All of these products are derived from the same substance of botulinum toxin type A, however, Botox and Dysport contain an accessory protein and Xeomin does not. Based on your lifestyle and goals, EA5280 will determine which product will work best for you.
Botox, FDA-approved in 2002, was created by the company Allergan. It is the most well-known and widely used neurotoxin in the United States. It has a precise spread from the injection site (1-1.2cm) making it a great option for the lower face. It can take 4 days to see results and up to 2 weeks to reach full effect. It generally peaks around six weeks and can last 3-6 months depending on the patient.
Dysport, a similar product, began its journey in Europe and was FDA-approved in the United States in 2009. It has a similar makeup to Botox and has a slightly larger spread when injected. Dysport is about 1/3 the strength of Botox so it requires 3x as many units which is why it is generally priced lower. You can begin to see results with Dysport in 2-4 days. At EA5280, we price Dysport and Botox the same to avoid confusion.
Xeomin
(pronounced zeo-min), the naked toxin, was FDA-approved in 2010 and does not contain an accessory protein. Xeomin is considered a “pure” form of botulinum toxin which reduces the possibility of allergic reaction and resistance from long-time use. With the lack of accessory proteins this product can feel lighter to some patients which can allow for more natural movement. It generally takes 4-7 days for onset and 2 weeks to reach full effect.
What can I expect with my treatment?
All products are measured in “units” and last for about three to four months on average, with some patients seeing results for up to six months. It is important to remember that dose equals duration, meaning the more product that is injected, the longer it will last. However, the recommended dose can generally be a bit too much for the average client so we will always recommend starting with less, with the option of adding more at your two-week follow-up. Once we have worked together for a couple of cycles, we will have your dosing and placement perfectly customized to your face. Patients who have a faster metabolism or workout frequently, often find that their results last for a shorter duration. It is therefore important to take this into account and stay on a regular 3-month schedule for long-term benefits.
Where can I use neurotoxin?
- Forehead lines (10-12 units)
- “Crow’s feet” around the eyes (10-18 units)
- “11’s”-frown lines between eyebrows (16-20 units)
- “Bunny lines’ on the nose (4-8 units)
- Nose tip lift (2-6 units)
- Reduction of nasal flaring (4-6 units)
- Brow lift: to create a bit more of an arch in the eyebrow (2-4 units)
- Lip flip: to create a fuller top lip without lip filler (2-4 units)
- Gummy smile release (4-6 units)
- Marionette lines/lift the corners of the mouth: for smiles that have a downward pull associated with aging (4-6 units)
- Dimpled or “orange peel” chin (5-8 units)
- Platysmal bands or “Nefertiti Lift” (20-30 units)
- Excessive Sweating (hyperhidrosis): armpits, palms, or bottom of feet (50 units per side)
- Trapezius: to reduce stress on neck and shoulders, relieve “tech neck” and correct posture (40-50 units per side)
- Masseter: to reduce jaw and teeth grinding and/or slim face (10-30 units per side)
- Migraines (varies)
- Microtox to enhance skin appearance
Each neurotoxin treatment with us is customized to fit your unique facial features, musculature, movement patterns and personal goals. Facial injections should never be a one size fits all approach, as we all have natural asymmetry in our faces that needs to be recognized and treated appropriately. A thorough consultation will take all of this into account and provide education for our clinical decision making. Many facial muscles work together and against each other so it’s important to prioritize finding an injector who has a thorough understanding of facial anatomy, physiology and drug pharmacology. After your treatment, you can expect prompt follow-up and open availability to any questions or concerns you may have. Elevated Aesthetics is committed to providing continuous education and support so you never feel alone on your injectable journey.
