Neurotoxins

Wrinkles occur naturally as a result of aging. Some are caused by a lifetime of making expressions and can be exacerbated by overstimulated facial muscles. Botox and other neurotoxins are popular and widely available rejuvenation treatments used to combat wrinkles, other signs of aging and certain medical conditions. 

At Skin Therapeutics, our experienced team of doctors and aestheticians have decades of experience working with neurotoxins. We’re proud to serve the greater Baltimore area at our Ellicott City, MD clinic, with patients coming to us from all over, including nearby Elkridge and Columbia. Book a consultation with us today!

What are Botox and Other Neurotoxins?

Botox and similar neurotoxins are proven, trusted treatments for multiple aesthetic and medical conditions. The neurotoxin is derived from Clostridium botulinum bacteria — which can cause botulism when ingested, but has beneficial effects on the skin’s appearance when injected.

Neurotoxins disrupt communication between the muscles and the nervous system. This is accomplished by blocking the release of acetylcholine, which leads to local muscle paralysis. This localized paralysis helps muscles relax, which in turn reduces the appearance of facial wrinkles and fine lines. 

Decades of use and studies have proven botulinum toxin to be beneficial. In addition, FDA approval further certifies its effectiveness: Botox has been FDA-approved since 1989. Other FDA-approved brands include Dysport, Jeuveau, Myobloc, Rima and Xeomin. 

What Can You Treat with Botox and Other Neurotoxins?

With few side effects and no downtime, Botox injections are one of the most commonly performed aesthetic treatments. While widely used for anti-aging purposes, neurotoxins can also serve as medical interventions as well.

Cosmetic issues neurotoxins address include:

• Crow’s feet
• Forehead lines
• Glabellar lines (“elevens”)
• Frown lines 
• Lines around the mouth and nose
• Undefined jawline 
• Neck banding, AKA “turkey neck”

Medical conditions commonly treated with neurotoxins are:

• Migraines: Neurotoxins have been shown to effectively prevent and lessen the duration and intensity of migraines when injected into muscles activated by the facial and trigeminal nerves. Side effects are possible, including eyelid drooping (blepharoptosis), skin tightness and neck stiffness
• Bruxism (involuntary teeth clenching or grinding): Neurotoxins minimize involuntary jaw tensing, thus reducing pain and preventing tooth damage. 
• Hyperhidrosis: Excessive sweating, usually in the armpits and palms is treated with multiple injections in a grid pattern. The skin is numbed beforehand with a local anesthetic. 
• Muscle spasms: Neurotoxins reduce the number and frequency of painful spasms in the face and neck

Botox and Other Neurotoxins We Offer

Skin Therapeutics offers three of the most popular brands of neurotoxins to patients. At your consultation, your provider will determine which treatment is right for you. The treatments are all simple 10-minute sessions with no downtime.

Botox

Botox Cosmetic, the original neurotoxin injection developed by Allergan, treats forehead lines, lines between the eyebrows, crow’s feet, smile lines and neck bands. Results will be noticeably fast, usually within 1–2 days, and full results within 2 weeks. 

Dysport

Dysport relaxes moderate to severe wrinkles between the eyebrows and on the forehead. Results can last up to 5 months. Results from Dysport can appear faster than with Botox. 

Jeuveau

Many dermatologists call Jeuveau “Newtox” as it’s a newer version of the same neurotoxin found in Botox. Jeuveau is approved by the FDA solely for the treatment of wrinkles and other facial lines. Results are often faster than with Botox, and Jeuveau is frequently less expensive. 

Botox FAQ

Is Botox safe? 

Botox and similar neurotoxins have an outstanding safety profile and many thousands of cases of use. Because it’s been used since 1989, its effects are very well understood. When properly administered by a board-certified, licensed injector in the right amounts and right places, Botox causes few mild side effects.

It is neither safe nor recommended to perform these treatments at home or have them administered by a non-licensed practitioner or med spa. 

How do I know which brand to choose? 

Your doctor will help you determine which treatment is right for your specific case. Because both wrinkles and medical conditions are unique to an individual, the decision will be up to you and your doctor. 

Can Botox replace plastic surgery? 

Botox and other neurotoxins offer a less invasive alternative to certain types of cosmetic surgery. The lack of downtime and strong safety profile make them an attractive option for people who don’t want to undergo surgery and have to spend time healing. 

However, Botox can only treat dynamic wrinkles, or wrinkles caused by muscle movements, and can’t address sagging or excess skin. 

Can Botox treatments be reversed? 

No. Once the procedure is complete, Botox cannot be reversed. However, because there are minimal side effects and there is no downtime, it’s exceptionally rare for patients to desire reversal.