Wrinkle Relaxer Treatment GUide

Botox is a purified neurotoxin produced by the pharmaceutical company  Allergan. It is FDA approved and has been extensively researched for safety and efficacy with an outstanding safety record. It has been used cosmetically since 1992, and medically long before that. It works beautifully to smooth out wrinkles. 

Dysport is another purified neurotoxin manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Galderma. It is also FDA approved since 2009 and extensively researched with an equally outstanding safety record. 

Xeomin is a purified neurotoxin with a double-filtered formula that removes unnecessary proteins. It is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Merz. It has been extensively researched and was FDA-approved in 2010 with an equally extensive safety record. 

Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin reduce the contraction of certain muscles that cause wrinkles by preventing the neurotransmitter Acetycholine from binding to the receptors on the muscles fibers. The Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin  peptide essentially block this action, causing the muscle to relax and the wrinkles to lessen or altogether disappear. 

Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are injected in very tiny amounts in the targeted muscles using a very small needle. Most people rate the pain as a 1 or 2 out of a scale of 1-10. It is very tolerable. Many people say it really doesn't hurt at all. 

Botox typically begins to take effect in 5-7 days but it can take up to 10-14 days to see the final results. Botox typically lasts about 3-4 months depending upon the individual. 

Dysport works quicker, usually taking effect in about 3 days, with the full effect seen between 7-14 days.  Dysport lasts about 3-4 months depending upon the individual. 

Xeomin typically begins to work in about 4-5 days, but can take up to 14 days to see the final results and also lasts about 3-4 months.  The results will vary between individuals with some neurotoxins lasting longer in some individuals than others. The best choice is the one that you and your treatment provider agree will be the best for you. 

We recommend avoiding aspirin and NSAIDs (Motrin, Aleeve, and Advil) for 48 hours prior to your appointment if okay with your medical provider. We also recommend avoiding drinking red wine and taking fish oil supplements and vitamin E if medically approved for 48 hours prior to your appointment. 

All of these agents can cause an increased tendency to bruise. Otherwise, there is no required preparation prior to your appointment. 

We advise no lying down or holding your face downwards for 4 hours post procedure and wait 24 hrs before you do any heavy exercise, sauna, or massage. Otherwise, you are free to live your life as you normally would!  

Side effects of Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are generally mild and relatively uncommon, and if they do occur are usually related to the injection. This can include temporary redness, swelling and bruising at the injection site. Some people report a temporary headache after the procedure.  

Everyone's muscles and anatomy are different, so we recommend a 2 week follow up after your first visit. You can always come in for a "Wrinkle Relaxer Check" after any appointment, but we really recommend it after your first. Your muscles and our team are just getting to know each other, so make sure you come to your follow up - its completely free.   

Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin  are extremely safe, however, they are not for everyone. If you are pregnant or nursing, you are not a candidate. Similarly, Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin cannot be used in patients that have a neuromuscular disorder such as Myasthenia Gravis or ALS (Lou Gherig's Disease). These disorders are not common, but this is an important thing to know.  You cannot receive Dysport if you have a cows milk allergy, as the Dysport peptide contains a protein related to cows milk. 

If you are looking to smooth out wrinkles and achieve a more relaxed look, either Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin are an  excellent treatment choice. The good news is the vast majority of patients can safely receive Botox , Dysport, or Xeomin with excellent results and patients are typically thrilled with their results!