What are Neurotoxins?

Neurotoxins are wrinkle relaxers made of the Botulinum toxin. Botulinum toxin formulations approved in the U.S. include Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, Daxxify® and Jeuveau®. The mechanism of action or how they work is the same, and the effects of each last equally as long regardless of the formulation. The effects of Daxxify had been shown to last much longer than the other formulations due to a newly patented peptide technology.

Neurotoxins are very popular. Repeated over time botulinum toxin is well tolerated and safe with predictable results and few side effects. The injection of neurotoxins is the most frequently performed cosmetic procedure in the U.S.

How does botulinum toxin work?

Botulinum toxin is a neuromodulator. Neuromodulators are chemical compounds that temporarily block muscle contractions. When injected, the targeted muscles and overlaying skin relax.

What are the applications of neurotoxins?

Neurotoxins are most widely know as a treatment to reduce the signs of dynamic wrinkles and fine lines. Lesser known, but equally effective, neurotoxins can be used to for facial contouring. This includes, but is not limited to, lifting the eyebrows, sliming a full face, lifting the corners of the mouth, lifting the tip of the nose, creating a fuller lip without using filler, and shrinking pores. These advanced techniques require the deft touch and skills of an expert injector. Dr. Sheila Farhang is an expert injector and skilled in all applications of neurotoxins. It is important to note that treatments will not interfere with nonverbal facial expressions that communicate your emotional state.

Why do wrinkles form?

Wrinkles develop as a result of repetitive and natural muscle contractions such as frowning and squinting. These wrinkles can create the appearance of someone who is anger, has anxiety, and fatigue. Prominent forehead creases, brow furrows, glabellar lines (the 11’s) and crow’s feet are all the result of repetitive and natural muscle contractions.

What is “baby botox”?

People can start as early as their late 20’s having neurotoxins injected as a preventative treatment for developing wrinkles and to deliver added benefits using advanced techniques. Dr. Farhang usually delivers what is called “baby botox” for those who are just starting or are seeking to “pre-juvenate”.

How long does it take to see results?

Botox, Dysport, Daxxify and Jeuveau each contain protective proteins and take 7-10 day after injection to see effects. Xeomin is a different formulation without these proteins and takes 5-6 days to see effects. Dr. Farhang will decide which product is the best choice for you based on your needs and goals. The most common side effects are slight redness at the injection sites and mild bruising which resolves within hours.

How long do results last?

All produce effects that last 2-3 months before gradually wearing off. However, effects can last as long as 4-5 months depending on the area treated, the dose and formulation. The duration of effect is also individualized based on how quickly the patient metabolizes the drug. Daxxify produces effects that last 6-7 months before gradually wearing off with effects that can last up to 9 months in some patients.

How frequently should I get neurotoxins?

Studies and experience report that keeping up with injections before the effects wears off can reduce the dose needed to achieve the same results. Importantly, maintenance injections can train the affected muscles to contract less frequently which reduces the cumulative impact of facial expressions in causing dynamic wrinkles.

Men typically require higher doses to reduce forehead and glabellar lines than women. Both sexes report reduced frowning and enhanced feelings of attractiveness, confidence and satisfaction.

A full list of neurotoxin applications

Neurotoxin injections can treat:

• Bunny lines or wrinkles on the nose caused by squinting
• Crow’s feet
• Horizontal forehead frown lines
• Vertical frown lines called the 11’s between the eyebrows
• Upper lip lines
• Nasolabial folds that run from the corners of the nose to the mouth
• Horizontal and vertical neck bands
• Scar management
• Chin dimpling
• Drooping eyebrows
• Lifting drooping mouth corners
• Facial slimming with injection into the masseter muscles to reduce the appearance of a full lower face and for facial contouring.
• Lip flip for more fullness
• Nasal tip lift
• Shrinking pores

At Avant Dermatology and Aesthetics in Tucson Arizona, Dr. Sheila Farhang is an expert injector who can create the most aesthetically pleasing, natural looking results with the use of neurotoxins. If you are interested in learning more, contact Dr. Farhang to schedule a consultation.