Understanding Botox: How it works, and what to expect

What is Botox?

Botox, also known as botulinum toxin type A, is a protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When cells break apart in C. botulinum cultures, they release the toxin, which is then purified and prepared for medical use. It is commonly used in cosmetic procedures to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Botox and other botulinum toxins are not used in topical skin care products, but there are many other topical anti-aging strategies available.

Botox Cosmetic, often referred to simply as “Botox,” was first introduced for cosmetic use in 1981 and gained FDA approval in 2002 for the treatment of frown lines. If you’re looking for anti-aging products to increase the effectiveness of your Botox injections, take the Baumann Skin Type Quiz for free today for a full regimen recommendation!

How does Botox work?

Botox works by targeting the SNAP-25 protein, which is essential for the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contraction. By breaking SNAP-25, Botox prevents the muscle from contracting, leading to a reduction in wrinkles and a smoother appearance of the skin.

How long does botox last?

The effects of Botox are temporary, lasting typically between 3 to 6 months. The duration depends on how quickly the body can regenerate the SNAP-25 protein. Throughout my career as a dermatologist, I have noticed some anecdotal patterns of who Botox works the longest for. Factors such as a healthy lifestyle, exercise, and a protein-rich diet may accelerate your body’s regeneration of SNAP-25 proteins, potentially shortening the duration of Botox’s effects. While there aren’t really any studies to support this hypothesis, I have observed that the more active and healthy you are, the faster Botox wears off.

Benefits of Botox

In addition to its cosmetic benefits, Botox is used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), chronic migraines, and muscle spasms. Its ability to relax muscles has made it a valuable tool in both dermatology and neurology, with new indications frequently reported.

Botox Side Effects

Common side effects include pain or bruising at the injection site, headache, and temporary muscle weakness. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as difficulty breathing or swallowing can occur. It’s important to only get Botox injections from doctors and trained medical providers.

What does Botox cost?

The cost of Botox varies depending on the area treated and the number of amount required. Prices can range from $200 to $800 per session, with factors such as location and provider expertise also influencing the cost. Different providers charge you different rates depending on many factors such as location, reputation, and skill level of the injector. Make sure to consider the reputation of your provider when justifying prices.

Does Botox hurt?

The injection process is generally quick and causes minimal discomfort. Some patients may feel a slight pinching sensation, but the use of a fine needle and optional topical numbing cream can help reduce any pain.

What types of doctors can give botox?

Botox injections should be performed by a licensed healthcare professional with experience in administering botulinum toxin, such as a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. In some states physician assistants, nurse practitioners, dentists, and aestheticians (In Texas and Arizona) are allowed to inject these toxins but proper training and expertise are crucial for ensuring safe and effective treatment. That being said, there are a number of people who are technically allowed to provide botulinum injections that are not well trained and do not understand the facial anatomy and all of the safety issues.

A Dermatologist’s thoughts on Botox

Botox’s popularity as a cosmetic treatment is well-founded, thanks to its ability to smooth wrinkles and provide a more youthful appearance. It is safe when used correctly by a well trained medical professional, and is extremely well studied. Understanding how Botox works and what to expect can help you make informed decisions about this treatment. Always consult with your doctor or medical provider to make sure you need Botox, and to get it done properly.

botulinum toxins

Botulinum Toxins in Skin Care

While Botox is the most well-known botulinum toxin Type A (BTX-A) used in skincare, there are several other BTX-A formulations available, each with its own unique properties that make them vary slightly.

The FDA approved botulinum toxin Type A injections for wrinkles such as frown lines (11s) include:

Botox (OnabotulinumtoxinA)

Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA)

Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA)

Jeuveau (prabotulinumtoxinA)

Daxxify (daxibotulinumtoxinA-lanm)

Dysport (AbotulinumtoxinA)

Dysport is similar to Botox but has a slightly different formulation. It is often used for the same cosmetic purposes as Botox, such as treating wrinkles and fine lines. Most cosmetic injectors say that one unit of Botox is equivalent to approximately 2.5 to 3 units of Dysport.

Xeomin (IncobotulinumtoxinA)

Xeomin is unique in that it contains only the pure neurotoxin without any extra proteins, which may reduce the risk of developing resistance. It is often used for treating frown lines and other facial wrinkles. Clinical studies have shown that Xeomin has a similar efficacy and safety profile to Botox, with a comparable duration of effect.

Jeuveau (PrabotulinumtoxinA)

Jeuveau is a newer botulinum toxin that has been specifically designed for cosmetic use. It is similar to Botox in terms of its molecular structure and mechanism of action. Jeuveau has been shown to be effective in reducing the appearance of glabellar lines (frown lines) and has a similar safety profile to other botulinum toxins.

comparing botulinum toxins

Comparing Botulinum Toxins

While all these botulinum toxins work in a similar way by targeting the SNAP-25 protein and preventing muscle contractions, they differ in their specific structures, speed, and duration. The choice between them depends on various factors, including the area being treated, your goals, and sensitivities. It’s important to consult with a knowledgeable doctor or medical provider to figure out which botulinum toxin is most suitable for your specific needs.

Conclusion

Botox is just one of several botulinum toxins used in skincare for their muscle-relaxing properties. Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau are all notable alternatives, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the differences between these toxins can help you make an informed decision when considering a botulinum toxin treatment.

Thanks for checking out this blog on botulinum toxins, I hope you feel more informed on the science and safety of popular injections for wrinkles. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them down below! Make sure you’ve taken our Skin Type Quiz to get your skin health on track today! Remember, increasing collagen with the correct skincare can complement the results of any cosmetic procedures you have.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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