Botulinum toxin (botox) is an injectable muscle relaxant, most commonly known by one of its trademarked brand names, BOTOX®.
Botox is used for smoothing deep, persistent lines and wrinkles that develop over time. These injectables are derived from a family of Neuromodulators that prevent nerve signals in muscles from contracting; they relax the facial muscles that cause lines and wrinkles. The positive effects of treatment by neuromuscular-based injectables usually lasts between 3 and 4 months. In addition to Botox, the most widely recognized product in the Neuromodulator family, we also offer Dysport and may offer other brands depending on the time of year.
Each brand of botulinum toxin has a unique molecular structure but shares the same core elements of the botulinum-A. The majority of research for cosmetic uses of botulinum-A have been based on onabotolinumtoxinA.
It is important to note that there is no standardised international unit that can be used to compare or to measure the amount of botulinum toxin administered. This means the effect of one unit of Botox is different than one unit of Dysport. The approximate conversion factor is 1:2.5 of Botox and Dysport.
Botox targets forehead lines, glabella lines (the vertical lines between the eyebrows) and crow’s feet (lines branching lines branching out from the outer corners of the eyes).
Each person’s facial musculature is unique and the approach to botox injection should be individualised.
