FAQs
What are neuromodulators?
Neuromodulators like Botox and Dysport are injectables derived from the botulinum toxin. They are primarily used in cosmetic and medical treatments to temporarily relax muscles, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and treating various muscle-related conditions.
How do they work?
Neuromodulators work by blocking nerve signals to the muscles. Normally, nerve cells release a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which binds to muscle receptors and causes muscle contractions. When a neuromodulator like Botox or Dysport is injected, it prevents the release of acetylcholine, thereby paralyzing or relaxing the targeted muscles. This leads to a temporary smoothing of wrinkles or a reduction in muscle activity.
What is Botox?
Botox is a brand of botulinum toxin type A, a neurotoxin used to temporarily relax muscles, reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles and fine lines. It is one of the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatments and is primarily used for facial rejuvenation. Botox is also used for medical purposes, such as treating migraines, excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), and muscle spasms.
How does it work?
• Mechanism of Action: Botox works by blocking the signals between nerves and muscles. When injected into targeted muscles, it prevents them from contracting. This relaxation of the muscles helps smooth out wrinkles and fine lines caused by repeated muscle movements (dynamic wrinkles), such as frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines.
• Effect: By reducing muscle movement, Botox softens the appearance of wrinkles and prevents them from deepening. It doesn’t “fill” the wrinkles but instead prevents the skin from folding due to muscle contraction.
What are main differences between Botox and Dysport?
1. Onset of Action:
• Botox typically starts working within 3-5 days, with full effects visible around 10-14 days.
• Dysport may start working slightly faster, within 2-3 days, making it a quicker option for some patients.
2. Diffusion:
• Dysport has a tendency to spread more after injection, covering a larger area, which can be beneficial for treating larger areas like the forehead but may also affect surrounding muscles.
• Botox remains more localized, making it ideal for treating specific small areas like crow’s feet or frown lines.
3. Dosing:
• Dysport units are measured differently than Botox, meaning more Dysport units may be needed compared to Botox, but this does not necessarily mean a higher dose of toxin is used.
4. Molecular Structure:
• Dysport has smaller molecules than Botox, which allows it to spread more quickly over larger areas. However, Botox’s larger molecules can be more precise for targeted treatment areas.
Are all neuromodulators safe?
Neuromodulators like Botox and Dysport are considered safe when administered by a trained and licensed professional. Both products are FDA-approved for cosmetic and therapeutic uses, including the treatment of wrinkles, migraines, muscle spasms, excessive sweating, and more. It has been used for both cosmetic and medical purposes for decades. Side effects are generally mild, such as bruising at the injection site, headaches, or temporary drooping of eyelids if injected improperly. However, in very rare cases, systemic side effects can occur, especially if injected incorrectly or in unapproved areas.
What does Botox do?
• Wrinkle Reduction: Botox is most commonly used to reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles, including:
• Frown lines (glabellar lines) between the eyebrows
• Crow’s feet (wrinkles around the eyes)
• Horizontal forehead lines
• Bunny lines on the nose
• Lip lines (vertical lines above the upper lip)
• Facial Contouring: Botox can also be used for non-cosmetic purposes, such as slimming the jawline (by relaxing the masseter muscle) and lifting the eyebrows for a non-surgical brow lift.
• Medical Uses: Botox is used to treat conditions like migraines, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain, excessive sweating, and muscle spasms.
What is the frequency and duration of treatment?
• Duration: The effects of Botox typically last 3-4 months, although this can vary depending on the individual, the treatment area, and the dose. Over time, the muscle gradually regains its ability to contract as the Botox wears off.
• Frequency: Most people get Botox injections every 3-4 months to maintain their results. Some may find that with repeated treatments, the effects last longer, potentially requiring fewer treatments over time.
Who is a good candidate for Botox?
• Has dynamic wrinkles: Ideal for people who have wrinkles caused by repeated muscle movements (like frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines).
• Is looking for a non-surgical treatment: Botox offers a quick, minimally invasive option for wrinkle reduction without surgery.
• Is in good overall health: People without active skin infections, neuromuscular diseases, or allergies to botulinum toxin should avoid Botox.
• Has realistic expectations: Botox softens wrinkles but does not completely eliminate them, especially deeper static wrinkles that form as a result of aging or sun damage over time.
Is there downtime?
• Minimal Downtime: Botox is a quick procedure with little to no downtime. Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure. Some people may experience mild redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites, but this usually resolves within a few hours to a couple of days.
• Aftercare: Patients are generally advised to avoid vigorous exercise, lying down, or massaging the treated area for the first few hours after the injection to prevent Botox from migrating to unintended muscles.
Conclusion
Botox is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment for reducing dynamic wrinkles and preventing further aging signs. It works by temporarily relaxing muscles, smoothing out lines and wrinkles caused by facial expressions. The effects last for 3-4 months, and treatments are typically needed 2-4 times per year to maintain results. It has minimal downtime, making it an attractive option for people seeking non-surgical wrinkle reduction.
What is the post care?
To avoid infection:
The needle puncture sites close in 6-12 hours. It is recommended to avoid wearing makeup for the rest of the day.
Be aware of touching your face throughout the day to reduce bacteria spreading from your hands to the injection site.
To avoid displacing the neuromodulator:
Do not rub or apply firm pressure to the injection sites. When you wash your face, gently lather the area.
Avoid massage for two days. You should not lay flat on your stomach in order to avoid moving the Botox before it has integrated into your muscle.
Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours. If you do choose to work out, exercise lightly (treadmill incline walk, elliptical, or upper body routine). Sweating may cause stinging at the injection sites. Do not exercise lying flat or on a reverse incline for 24 hours. No yoga for 24 hours.
Bruising:
Bruising is common with any type of injectable, (especially around the mouth and eyes) and can take up to 2 weeks to completely resolve.
Bruising is most apparent after 24 hours.
Bruising starts to resolve day 3.
Bruising can occur at any injection site and is caused by a leaky blood vessel that was poked by the needle.
Bruising may become more apparent if commonly used blood thinners are taken day 1 and 2 post injection (alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen). Although these substances do not alter the results, they can cause a “baby bruise” to spread and appear larger.
Tylenol is the recommended choice for post care tenderness of the injection site because it is not a blood thinner.
After your treatment:
You may have a stinging or itching sensation at the injection site for up to 30 minutes.
You may have “mosquito bite” bumps immediately post treatment from the injected fluid that will absorb within 15 minutes.
Botox gradually kicks into the targeted muscles. You will not notice Botox working right away. On average, Botox takes effect within 3-5 days and will be in full effect after 10-12 days.