Which neurotoxin is right for me?
Neurotoxins, also called wrinkle relaxers, are well-established aesthetic treatments for nonsurgical facial rejuvenation. They are the leading nonsurgical procedure worldwide because they are quick, safe, relatively painless, and provide almost immediate results.
What are neurotoxins?
Currently there are five FDA approved brands of wrinkle relaxers, Botox®, Dysport® and Xeomin®, Jeuveau® and the newest neurotoxin called Daxxify™ which was approved in 2022. All wrinkle relaxer brands are made of neurotoxins derived from the Botulinum toxin type A. Each brand offers various features, costs, potencies, and formulations. At Lucent Dermatology your cosmetic dermatologist understands the subtle distinctions and will help you choose the one right for your goals and needs.
How do neurotoxins work?
Wrinkle relaxers are injectables that target dynamic wrinkles, the wrinkles of expression. When injected the toxin temporarily relaxes muscle activity so you will look more rested and relaxed. Injections also offer advantages in psychological well-being and quality of life.
What is the difference between the brands?
The main difference is the length of time effects last. Secondarily is the length of time it takes to see results.
How long will the results last?
All wrinkle relaxers are temporary fixes for dynamic wrinkles, the wrinkles of expression.
- Botox is the shortest acting. Effects last 3-4 months which means repeated injections every 3-4 months are needed to maintain the effects.
- Jeuveau and Xeomin results may last 3-6 months.
- Dysport may results last 3-5 months.
- Daxxify is the standout. Studies report that Daxxify results last for 6-9 months before maintenance injections are needed to retain the effects.
How long to begin to see results?
- Botox, Xeomin, and Jeuveau take 3-5 days after injection to notice effects and 10 to 14 to see the full effects.
- The results of Dysport may appear within 24 hours of treatment, but results may not last as long as other neurotoxins.
- Xeomin results may begin to be visible within 72 hours.
- Daxxify results may begin to become visible within 48 hours.
What can be treated with neurotoxins?
Wrinkle relaxers can:
- smooth wrinkles between the eyebrows (glabellar lines or the “angry 11’s”)
- smooth horizontal frown lines and forehead wrinkles
- smooth bunny lines on the nose
- smooth vertical lip lines around the mouth
- smooth crow’s feet around eyes
- reduce the appearance of horizontal neck bands
- as a component of a liquid rhinoplasty, neurotoxin injections can be used to treat nasal flaring and to raise the tip of the nose
- smooth a dimpled chin
- provide a chemical browlift
- lift the corners of the mouth to treat mouth frowns and refresh a smile
- soften a square jaw
- improve facial symmetry
- treat a gummy smile
- create fuller looking lips
Other things to consider when choosing the right neurotoxin for you?
- Is there a deadline? It is always best to determine whether there is special event coming up and considering the amount of time it will take to see the full effects of the neurotoxin. For instance, if you have a wedding or special event in two weeks, in that case, you likely want a neurotoxin that provides visible full effects before two weeks.
- What if the Botox injections you have been receiving seem not to work as well as they used to? This is called Botox Resistance, a rare phenomenon where the body can develop antibodies against the Botox. If that is the case, choosing a slightly different formulation may be better for you. Talk to your Lucent Dermatology cosmetic dermatologist.
- It is important to remember that the aging process doesn’t stop so if you get the same dose, but the effects are no longer as good as you’ve had previously, you may need to up the dose to get the same effects that used to work. But this will not extend the length the effects will last. Talk to your Lucent Dermatology cosmetic dermatologist.
- Can you switch between neurotoxin formulations? All the brands are safe and effective, but the general rule is to stick with the brand you know and have a history with.
- If you have previously had an allergic reaction to Botox, there may be another formulation that can reduce the risk. Xeomin is a mor profiled form and may be a better choice for you. Talk to your Lucent Dermatology cosmetic dermatologist.
These are just a few things to consider when choosing the right neurotoxin for you. The best thing you can do is consult with your Lucent Dermatology cosmetic dermatologist who can refine your options based on your previous experience, goals, and considerations.
The team of board-certified and fellowship-trained dermatologists Drs. William Camp and Alexandra Zhang at Lucent Dermatology are experts in cosmetic and medical dermatology. They have offices in Beachwood, Ohio and Akron, Ohio. They will listen to your concerns and goals and help you decide on the best options for you.
