When it comes to maintaining a youthful appearance, many people turn to neuromodulator treatments like Botox injections. But did you know there were other types of “tox” that are used to treat wrinkles? In this blog post, we will explore what neuromodulators are, the different types of neurotoxins available, and the various benefits they offer.
How Does Botox Work?
Neuromodulators, like Botox, are specialized injectable solutions designed to target the nerve signals that cause muscle contractions. By temporarily blocking these signals, the treated muscles relax, leading to a reduction in the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines that form on the skin above. These temporary effects typically last for 3 months, but some new formulas can last even longer! This category of treatments is widely recognized in the aesthetic community for its youthful effects on the skin and in the medical community for its versatile uses.
The Cosmetic Benefits of Neuromodulator Injections
- Improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Non-surgical brow lift
- Non-surgical lip lift, or “Lip Flip”
- Facial slimming (Masseter injection)
- Reducing the prominence of platysmal bands in the neck
Botox in Medical Treatment
- Reduction in the frequency and severity of migraines
- Reduction of hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, in the hairline, and/or axilla (armpits).
The Most Common Types Of Neuromodulators
Although Botox, or onabotulinumtoxinA, is the hallmark of neuromodulator treatments, gaining global recognition for its effectiveness, it’s important to note the presence of other neurotoxin formulations such as Jeuveau, Xeomin and Daxxify. Each product contains a slightly different formulation of botulinum toxin, the active ingredient, and offer distinct advantages depending on the treatment area and desired outcome. For instance, some may have a quicker onset of action or a more localized effect, making the choice of neuromodulator a tailored decision based on individual goals and characteristics.
Which Treatment Is Right For Me?
Jeuveau, also known as #NEWTOX, is a modern alternative to Botox, specifically designed to target glabellar lines, which are the vertical “11” lines between the eyebrows. This FDA-approved injectable contains the active ingredient prabotulinumtoxinA, and has been shown to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines, providing a smooth and natural-looking result. Jeuveau’s fast-acting formula and long-lasting effects make it a popular choice for individuals seeking effective wrinkle reduction with rapid improvements.
Xeomin, or incobotulinumtoxinA, is another injectable neurotoxin with aesthetic effects. Similar to Botox and Jeuveau, Xeomin is an FDA-approved neurotoxin that minimizes the appearance of facial wrinkles by relaxing underlying muscles. What sets Xeomin apart is its unique formulation, containing only the active ingredient incobotulinumtoxinA without any additives. This makes Xeomin a purer form of botulinum toxin, potentially reducing the risk of developing antibodies to the treatment over time.
Daxxify, the newest entry into the neurotoxin market, offers a novel approach to wrinkle reduction. Daxxify has quickly gained attention for its long-lasting effects, maintaining wrinkle improvement for 6 months on average. This FDA-approved, innovative treatment also utilizes a proprietary blend of peptides and neuro-modulators to address fine lines and wrinkles, promoting skin tightening and rejuvenation. Daxxify’s advanced formula aims to diminish existing wrinkles and prevent the formation of new ones, making it the best option for patients who want fewer neuromodulator treatments per year and improved skin tone.
When comparing these treatments, it’s essential to consider factors such as treatment areas, longevity, onset of action, and individual preferences. Whether seeking subtle enhancements or more pronounced changes, there is a neuromodulator suited to your unique needs and objectives. During your consultation, Dr. Hutchinson uses her expertise in facial anatomy to guide you through these options based on your individual concerns and aesthetic needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Expect During a Neuromodulator Injection Session?
When embarking on the journey of receiving neuromodulator injections, it’s essential to have a clear picture of the process involved. The injection process involves a series of small injections directly into the target muscles. The number of injections depends on the areas being treated and the desired outcomes, but there are usually about three injections per eyebrow, and 5-8 injections on each side of the forehead. You may feel a slight pinch or discomfort during the injection, but this sensation is typically mild and temporary. At FACE Atlanta, we use topical anesthetics to numb the area beforehand, enhancing comfort during the procedure.
How Long Does Each Session Take?
Typically, a session for these injections is quick and requires little downtime, often described as a “lunchtime procedure” due to its brief duration. Most treatments are completed within 15 to 30 minutes, allowing individuals to return to their daily activities with minimal interruption. New patient visits last about 45 minutes, allowing time for consultation and treatment in a single session.
What Should I Expect after Neuromodulator Treatment?
After treatment, it’s not uncommon to experience minor swelling and redness at the injection sites, but these symptoms are generally short-lived, subsiding in less than an hour. Some individuals may bruise, although this is less common, and resolves in a few days. Most individuals find that they can resume their normal activities immediately after their session, with no significant downtime required. We recommend avoiding heavy sweating, strenuous physical activity, and vigorous manipulation of the facial tissues for 24 hours after treatment.
Will Neuromodulator Injections Create a “Frozen” or “Overdone” Appearance?
A common myth surrounding neuromodulator injections is that it will create an emotionless, “frozen” facial appearance. This misconception often stems from high-profile cases of overtreatment or poor injection technique. However, when these treatments are administered by experienced professionals, like Dr. Tanisha Hutchinson, you can achieve relaxation of only the muscles that contribute to unwanted lines, rather than immobilizing the entire face.
Do I Need to Continue Neuromodulator Treatments Once I Start?
Another common myth is that once you start treatments, you must continue them indefinitely to maintain your appearance. In reality, while the effects of neuromodulators are temporary, and while regular treatments can sustain results, ceasing injections will simply allow muscle activity to gradually return to its baseline state, without any long-term detrimental effects on your appearance. The goal is always to achieve a refreshed and youthful look that reflects your natural beauty, so treatments every 3 months are recommended, but neuromodulator treatments are in no way an irreversible commitment.
