Everybody ages. It’s part of life. Unfortunately, as you age, your skin slowly stops producing collagen and thus, the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines start to appear. To combat the physical signs of aging, many people turn towards botulinum toxin injections. Botulinum toxin is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter acetylcholine that’s found in plants, soil, water, and animal intestines. It works to target the nervous system by minimizing muscle contraction. This, in turn, helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Getting botulinum toxin injections is a common way to treat wrinkles, but many people don’t realize that there are a few different types of botulinum toxin injections available to choose from.
Types of Injections
Even if you’ve heard of the different types of botulinum toxin injections, you may not realize the differences between them. Depending on the area of focus, each injection ranges in cost and should be used for specific areas. The results from all injections are meant to act as temporary treatments, so follow-ups are needed to maintain desired results. To better understand your options, here are the four most common types of botulinum toxin injections.
Botox
Contrary to popular belief, Botox is actually a brand-name type of botulinum toxin injections, not the general term. Botox was the first treatment that the FDA has approved for the temporary reduction in frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines in adults. Results can be seen quickly, in as little as 24 hours with minimal down time. The results can last an upward of six months and are subtle and natural.
Do not use Botox if you have certain medical, muscle, or nerve conditions or are taking a range of medications. Talk to your doctor to make sure Botox will be safe for you to use.
Dysport
Dysport is a type of injection that is administered in 5 points between and above your eyebrows to reduce frown lines. People opt for Dysport when they have more severe wrinkles, but still want natural-looking results. If you have mild wrinkles, a different type of injection will be recommended. If you want to target forehead lines or crow’s feet, Dysport is not for you.
Dysport allows for optimal control and starts working as soon as days post-treatment. Results vary, but many people experience an improvement in frown lines for up to 4 months. Since it’s a minimally invasive procedure, downtown is very short and normal activities can be resumed.
Do not use Dysport if you have had facial reconstructive surgery or deep scarring. Dysport is not as effective on oily skin and you should always consult your doctor or a specialist to find the best type of botulinum toxin injection for your skin.
Xeomin
Xeomin is a neurotoxin that works to block the release of chemicals that cause muscle contractions, making frown lines soften over time. It’s injected into muscles to help temporarily soften the appearance of frown lines. Unlike Botox and Dysport, Xeomin does not contain an accompanying protein.
Do not use Xeomin if you have had other types of botulinum toxin injections in the past 4 months or take muscle relaxants. Talk to your doctor about whether or not Xeomin is right for you.
Myobloc
Unlike Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin, which contain botulinum toxin type A, Myobloc has botulinum toxin type B. It’s not as well known and often administered to people who have become immune to botulinum toxin type A. It’s primarily used to treat cervical dystonia and chronic sialorrhea. If you’re interested in using Myobloc, talk to your doctor to learn more.
Is it Safe?
Botulinum toxin injections are considered safe when administered in small amounts by a medical professional. They are not safe to be administered for children or teenagers. If you are pregnant, have allergies, older than 65, or have previously experienced botulinum toxin sensitivity, you should not get any type of botulinum toxin injection.
Talk to your doctor if you are currently taking any blood thinners, medications, or muscle relaxers, as these tend to cause undesirable interactions with the botulinum toxin. Do not get botulinum toxin injections if your doctor says it is not safe. Every person is different and the side effects can be serious, especially if you go against your doctor’s orders.
Side effects range from person-to-person and can include redness and swelling, bruising, minor pain, headaches, or irritation. Serious side effects range from muscle spasms, breathing problems, difficulty with swallowing, eating, or speech, and droopy eyelids. Rare, but serious, side effects can occur—your doctor will discuss them with you prior to choosing a type of botulinum toxin injection.
How to Choose the Right Clinic
Remember, recovery rates are fast, but side effects and improper administration can be dangerous. All of the different types of botulinum toxin injections will help you achieve temporary results and are non-surgical, but you still need to find a reputable clinic to ensure safe administration. At Zea Salon, we offer Botox injections administered by Dr. Scott Glazer, a board certified dermatologist with over 30 years of experience. To learn more, or schedule a consultation, call us today at 773-248-0600.