Botox

In the context of cosmetic dermatology, neurotoxins are purified proteins derived from Clostridium botulinum bacteria. While the term “toxin” may sound alarming, these products are highly refined, carefully dosed, and FDA-approved for cosmetic use. When administered by a trained and licensed provider, neurotoxins are both safe and effective for treating wrinkles and fine lines caused by repeated facial expressions such as frowning, squinting, or smiling.

The most well-known neurotoxins include Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeuveau®. Each brand has unique characteristics in terms of diffusion, onset, and longevity, but they all work through a similar mechanism—by temporarily relaxing targeted facial muscles.

Neurotoxins work by blocking the communication between nerves and the muscles they control. When a neurotoxin is injected into a facial muscle, it prevents that muscle from contracting as forcefully, allowing the overlying skin to smooth out.

This temporary muscle relaxation reduces the appearance of existing lines and helps prevent the formation of new wrinkles. Over time, with consistent use, neurotoxins can even “train” muscles to remain relaxed, leading to longer-lasting aesthetic improvements.

Neurotoxins are primarily used to treat dynamic wrinkles, the wrinkles of expression, such as frowning, smiling, and squinting, caused by repetitive facial movements. These include:

• Horizontal forehead lines caused by raising the eyebrows
• Frown lines (glabellar lines) between the eyebrows
• Crow’s feet around the eyes caused by squinting or smiling
• Bunny lines on the bridge of the nose
• Lip lines, sometimes called smoker’s lines
• Chin dimpling (also known as “pebbled chin”)
• Neck bands (platysmal bands)

Beyond wrinkle reduction, neurotoxins can also be used for other aesthetic and medical indications. In cosmetic dermatology, they may be used to lift the eyebrows, correct a gummy smile, reduce a square jawline by relaxing the masseter muscles, and minimize excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) in areas such as the underarms.

Patients treated with neurotoxins typically begin to see results within 3 to 7 days following the injection, with full effects visible around 10 to 14 days. The treated areas appear smoother and more relaxed, but the goal is always a natural-looking outcome. When administered by an experienced dermatologist like Dr. Newsome, neurotoxin injections will not result in a “frozen” or expressionless look. Instead, patients retain the ability to express themselves, but without deep creases forming in the skin.

The results of neurotoxin injections are temporary, typically lasting between 3 to 4 months. Over time, the body gradually breaks down the neurotoxin, and muscle activity returns. For continued wrinkle reduction, most patients choose to schedule maintenance treatments every 3 to 4 months. Some patients may notice longer-lasting effects with regular use, as the targeted muscles become conditioned to reduced activity.

Treatment with neurotoxins is fast and straightforward. The procedure is performed in-office and usually takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on the number of areas being treated. After assessing the patient’s facial anatomy and aesthetic goals, Dr. Newsome will carefully inject small amounts of the neurotoxin into the targeted muscles using a very fine needle. The number of injections varies based on the treatment area and the desired result.

Most patients report only minor discomfort, often described as a slight pinch. Because the procedure is minimally invasive and does not involve any incisions or anesthesia, patients can return to their normal activities immediately after treatment. In many cases, neurotoxin injections can even be scheduled during a lunch break.