What Is A Neurotoxin or Neuromodulator?
Botulinum toxin is a natural protein produced by certain types of Clostridium bacteria. As a neuromodulator, it acts by blocking the junctions in the muscles that are responsible for muscle contractions that cause wrinkles in the skin. Think of a lock and key system. When the key no longer fits in the lock, the door can’t open. In this case the toxin changes the shape of the lock so the key won’t fit, blocking the ability of the muscle to contract. The skin is connected to the muscle under the skin, as the muscle under the skin gets stronger the wrinkle in the skin appears deeper. When a neuromodulator is used it paralyzes the muscle, allowing the skin to smooth out.
Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau are FDA approved neuromodulators indicated for anti-wrinkle injections in the forehead, frown lines, and crows’ feet. The active ingredient in all these products is Clostridium Botulinum Toxin. The difference in the products is determined by the strain of the toxin and how it is processed.
Which Anti-Wrinkle Injection Is Best?
The truth is that Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau all work safely and reliably to paralyze the muscles and smooth fine lines and wrinkles. Every patient has a unique response to the product as well as individual preference to the look and effect the product provides.
Drug manufacturers and product reps are quick to point to a few studies they have funded that show one product having superior benefit over another. For example, Dysport is said to have a quicker onset of action and a larger spread while Botox claims a longer duration of action. Xeomin is said to withstand resistance to the product which can happen in rare cases and Jeuveau claims a more rapid onset because of a special filtration system.
The only way to know for sure which product works best for you is to try them. Once you find the one that works best for you, that’s the one you can stick with.
How much do Anti-Wrinkle Injections cost?
There is a slight difference in the cost of each of the neuromodulators. They are priced by unit so the total cost of the treatment depends on the number of units injected. The price ranges anywhere from $4.00 per unit to $12.00 per unit but don’t let that range fool you. One product in particular uses 3 times the dose of another product so the end total is the same.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The procedure takes 30-40 minutes depending on the patient and if it’s your first time or if you’ve been treated before. Your provider will do an assessment and go over the risks before your first treatment. Your skin will be cleansed with alcohol before the injections to remove any bacteria, dirt, oil, or makeup.
What About After Care?
After care instructions are very important to ensure you get the best results from your treatment and help you avoid any adverse side effects. Do not apply makeup after your treatment and avoid touching your face for 4 hours. It takes approximately 4 hours for the injection sites to fully close. You will want to avoid taking NSAIDs after your treatment as they delay the healing time and can increase your risk of bleeding or bruising. Don’t lay down flat for 4 hours after your treatment. It’s best to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for the next 24 hours. Avoid any facials, rotary brushes, massage, and micro needling for 2 weeks after your treatment.
There may be some mild discomfort to the areas being treated. There is a risk of injection site pain, redness, swelling, bruising, or infection at the injection site. Please make sure you follow aftercare instructions to ensure the best outcome and longevity of your treatment.
Other risks associated with Neuromodulators including headache, flu like symptoms, eye lid droop, or brow heaviness. Your provider will review the risks in detail at your consultation and provide reminders at each follow up visit.
Which Products Do We Carry at Les Fleurs?
We offer Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin at Les Fleurs. Call today for a free consultation with a trained provider to discuss which product might work best for you.