What is Botox and How Does It Work?
In the realm of aesthetics, Botox proves to be a highly effective method for smoothing out the lines and wrinkles that develop as a result of the aging process. While its initial use was primarily intended for individuals with hyperactive muscle disorders, Botox has now become one of the most sought-after treatments for facial rejuvenation. In the United States alone, over 100 million vials of Botox have been sold since 2002. Botox is derived from Clostridium Botulinum, a bacterium that forms spores and produces the same neurotoxin responsible for causing botulism. Through extensive scientific research and rigorous distribution standards, Botox has been rendered safe for various medical applications.
How is it stored and administered?
When Botox is delivered to clinics, it is in a vial filled with powder and is typically accompanied by dry ice to ensure its potency is maintained. Prior to injection, Botox is mixed with bacteriostatic saline and stored in refrigeration. Injections are typically administered using an insulin syringe with a fine 31-gauge needle, enhancing the comfort of the treatment. Classified as a neuromodulator, Botox acts to hinder the neural signals sent to the muscles, thus regulating muscle contractions and creating a smoother appearance of the skin.
How does it work?
Over time, wrinkles develop due to the repetitive contractions of facial muscles, such as squinting, raising the eyebrows, and smiling. These expressive muscles tend to strengthen and hold tension, making it difficult for them to return to their relaxed state. This continual “tug of war” between the muscles and the skin results in the skin forming wrinkles. By blocking the neurotransmission between peripheral nerve endings and muscle fibers, botulinum toxin, the active ingredient in Botox, weakens or paralyzes the skeletal muscles. Weakening the skeletal muscles allows the skin to revert to its original state, effectively smoothing out the wrinkles.
It’s important to note that the effects of Botox are temporary, with muscular function typically returning to its baseline state in a few months.
5 FDA-APPROVED NEUROMODULATORS IN THE UNITED STATES:
–Botox – OnabotulinumtoxinA – is a preservative-free, vacuum-dried powder that contains the Clostridium botulinum type A neurotoxin plus human albumin and sodium chloride. It is FDA-approved to smooth the lines between the eyes (glabellar region), the forehead lines, and the crow’s feet. Botox gained its FDA approval 20 years ago, the first on the market for cosmetic injections.
–Dysport – AbobotulinumtoxinA – is another botulinum toxin type A formulation that comes in a freeze-dried powder plus serum albumin and lactose. In 2009, Dysport gained FDA approval for glabellar lines, the lines between the eyebrows.
–Xeomin – IncobotulinumtoxinA – is a newer botulinum toxin type A formulation that comes in a freeze-dried powder plus human albumin and sucrose.
–Jeuveau – PrabotulinumtoxinA – was approved in 2019 for glabellar lines. It also comes in a freeze-dried powder.
–Daxxify -DaxibotulinumtoxinA – is the newest neuromodulator on the market. It was approved in 2022. It is the only FDA-approved (neuromodulator) to help smooth moderate to severe lines between the brows, lasting an average of six months.
TOX DURATION
Typically, Botox lasts three months; however, the duration is site and dose-dependent, with larger doses lasting longer. In addition, clients that get repeated injections may notice their Botox lasting longer than three months due to musculature atrophy.
Botox takes effect around three days after treatment, with some muscles losing strength and tension before others, however, for the full benefits, expect the Botox/ Dysport to be fully into effect in 14 days. It is common to have slight asymmetry until the two-week marker when the neuromodulator peeks and most of the muscle fibers in the treatment area are calmed. Looking for a Botox treatment in Phoenix, AZ? Visit us for a treatment to smooth wrinkles and pump the brakes on aging. 480-877-0100 or book online here.
