Neurotoxins (BOTOX®/Xeomin®)
Cosmetic Procedures
Overview
A commonly performed procedure, neurotoxins are injected into muscles to treat deep, severe lines by blocking their nerve impulses to weaken the muscles. Botulinum toxin, known by its commercial name, neurotoxins, is a neurotoxic protein used in medicine, cosmetics, and scientific research. Neurotoxins are also used to treat hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating. Neurotoxins block the nerves which notify the eccrine glands to produce sweat. Neurotoxins also helps relax clenched muscles and prevent excessive sweating. On the cosmetic side, neurotoxins are considered a safe and effective method of reducing facial wrinkles. The injection of botulinum toxin in one’s face causes a relaxation of face muscles, causing a visible reduction in wrinkles.
Side Effects
Most side effects of neurotoxins are mild and temporary. The injections cause more side effects than the botulinum toxin itself. Some common side effects from the injections may include swelling, redness, soreness, and bruising at injection site. Less commonly, patients can acquire a slight headache post-treatment. Some report having a weakness in neighboring muscles after neurotoxins, but this is rare. Signs and symptoms of botulism are a very rare side effect.
Post-Treatment Care
After you receive the procedure, do not rub or massage areas where you received the injections. Wait at least 24 hours to perform any serious physical activity or engaging in any exercise that may raise your heart rate as it can affect the effectiveness of the neurotoxins. Wait at least two hours to perform any serious physical activity or engaging in any exercise that may raise your heart rate as it can affect the effectiveness of the neurotoxins. Avoid consuming large quantities alcohol, blood thinning medication, and other facial treatments for 24 hours after receiving the injections.
Safety
Neurotoxins are becoming increasingly common. As more and more patients are receiving neurotoxins, the practice is improving and becoming safer and healthier. Dermatologists are continuing to improve the safety of their patients. Each year, the American Academy of Dermatology is offering improved and up-to-date information on how to perform the neurotoxin procedure. People of all colors and skin types are satisfied with their neurotoxin treatment. The intense side effects mentioned above are incredibly rare.
Additional Info
Learn more about neurotoxins, Botox® and Xeomin®.