What you need to know about botox
Botox is a brand and is commonly used synonymously for all injections of the neurotoxin botulinum toxin by the general public. While practitioners do not usually refer to their injections as neurotoxin botulinum toxin, Botox is the most commonly known agent by consumers. Allergen’s Botox is not the only brand of medication available, there are several more on the market. Each brand has its own place and use.
How does Botulinum Toxin Type A (BTX-A) Injections Work?
This type of medication paralyzes the muscles. More specifically, it prevents the neurotransmitter acetylcholine from being released from one neuron to activate the next. It is like putting a piece of plastic between your plug and electrical socket – nothing gets through. If you are into medical science, here is a good article to read: Walker TJ, Dayan SH. Comparison and overview of currently available neurotoxins. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2014;7(2):31-39.
Right now, the most common BTX-A products are the “Big 4”. Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin. Each of these is slightly different from one another and is used in slightly different ways. All have their niches and their specific uses. Some work quickly, others take time. Some cover larger areas, some for smaller areas. There is even an alternative one if you are allergic to the other BTX-A agents. Each practitioner uses them in a different way. Normally, experience is the guide for the practitioner, because each patient will respond a little differently to each product.
If you have any further questions or are interested in these or other cosmetic products or procedures, feel free to call the office for a consultation.
