Botox®, Jeuveau®, Dysport®, and Xeomin® are commonly used neurotoxins that you may have already heard of. At The Lotus, we use primarily Botox® and Jeuveau® simply out of preference. Have you ever wondered how tox works, or if you're even a candidate for it? If so, keep reading.
What are neurotoxins and how do they work?
What should I expect when getting neurotoxins?
When should I get Botox® (or any neurotoxin of your choice) for an event?
Am I a candidate?
8 examples that might influence the longevity of your results
What are neurotoxins and how do they work?
Purified botulinum toxins such as Botox®, Jeuveau®, Dysport®, and Xeomin® are used to temporarily relax muscles and smooth out wrinkles (sign me up!) They are injected directly into the muscle under the skin causing wrinkles to smooth out and soften, and can even be used to prevent fine lines and wrinkles. When performed by a skilled injector, neurotoxin injections only affect targeted muscles while still allowing for facial expression.
What should I expect when getting neurotoxins?
Injections can be done during a 15 to 30 minute appointment, topical numbing is provided upon request but is rarely needed. Neurotoxins are delivered by injecting a tiny needle into the muscle under the skin. Most people describe it as a little pinch. Typically, results are evident at the 2 week mark and last anywhere from three to five months.
When should I get Botox® (or any neurotoxin of your choice) for an event?
Results vary of course, but typically you should shoot for 6-8 weeks before your event. At or around the 2 week mark, the neurotoxin is at its peak. This means the injection site is still tight and doesn't look as good in photos. At 6-8 weeks, your neurotoxin is settled, your face looks natural (without the wrinkles!) and you''ll look your best in photos.
Am I a candidate?
Sometimes a person doesn't "respond" to neurotoxins (ugh, so sad). In certain individuals, the body when exposed to a neurotoxin such as Jeuveau®, will create anti-bodies to "fight" off the neurotoxin, eating it away. Don't worry, this is super rare and only about 1-3% of people have this.
Another example of Botox® resistance is if you have a high metabolism. Your body will metabolize the neurotoxin quicker than others, resulting in a short-lived effect, underwhelming results, or no effect at all. Some doctors estimate that only 1 in 10,000 have real Botox® resistance.
An allergic reaction to Botox® is possible, though it is not very common. There has not been a systemic reaction to Botox®, and no one has ever died trying to get rid of their wrinkles. Usually, an adverse side effect of a neurotoxin will present itself within a week of injection.
8 examples that might influence the longevity of your results
The size, depth, and how long you've had your wrinkles: The longer you've had a wrinkle, the longer it is going to take to get rid of it. Allow at least a year of consistency or look for a different treatment like RF Microneedling. To read more about RF Microneedling, click here.
Your metabolism: You already knew this, didn't you! Anyways, your body is unique, it is unlike any other. You may have a high metabolism and your body's chemicals will process neurotoxins faster, but someone with a slower metabolism will have longer-lasing results.
Your activity level: The more your work out the faster the neurotoxin may wear off. This is for those marathon runners who do 20 miles a week. (Couldn't be me).
The injector: The skill and accuracy of the injector is important to how long your results last. Neurotoxins work right where they're injected, and have to be injected into a muscle because neurotoxins temporarily paralyze the muscle from working, (and the muscle is the reason for the wrinkle). Don't worry, our injectors at The Lotus have 9+ years experience. ;)
Product Quality: Neurotoxins like Botox® and Jeuveau® must be safely stored in refrigeration because they do not react well to heat. Old neurotoxins should be properly disposed of. The Lotus maintains quality by securing product in a back-up generated fridge in case of power outages.
Movement: If you're a pretty animated person in regards to your facial expressions, your results might not last as long as someone who rarely smiles or raises their eyebrows.
How often you get injections: By maintaining consistency with your injections, the longer you can go without getting them, and the longer your results will last. We advise getting Botox about every 3-4 months, and 4-5 months for Jeuveau.
How much you use: Everyone is different, and so is the amount of neurotoxins you need. The larger the muscle you're targeting is, the more you will need. The less you use, the faster it wears away.
If you decide to undergo a Botox® or Jeuveau® treatment, our well-trained, highly-qualified, and fun (because that is important in life) injectors will take very good care of you. We will ensure that your skin care treatment is tailored to your unique body to produce the best results possible! To get more information about our services or our company follow us on Instagram, @thelotusmedspa, or call 210-774-2850.
To book: Call or Text 210-774-2850, go to thelotusmedspa.com, or DM us on Instagram.