Neurotoxins
Neurotoxins, commonly used in cosmetic treatments to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, come in various formulations. In the US, the five primary neurotoxins approved for cosmetic use are Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, and Daxxify. Below we will look at each of these neurotoxins and their unique characteristics:
1. Botox (OnabotulinumtoxinA)
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Manufacturer: Allergan
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FDA Approval: 2002
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How It Works: Botox works by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that signals muscle contraction. By preventing these signals, Botox temporarily relaxes the targeted muscles, reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles.
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Unique Features:
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The most well-known and extensively studied neurotoxin.
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Consistent and predictable results.
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Typically takes 3-5 days to see initial results, with full results in about 2 weeks.
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Effects last approximately 3-4 months.
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2. Dysport (AbobotulinumtoxinA)
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Manufacturer: Galderma
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FDA Approval: 2009
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How It Works: Similar to Botox, Dysport blocks acetylcholine release, preventing muscle contractions. It spreads more easily than Botox, which can be beneficial for treating larger areas.
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Unique Features:
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Faster onset of action; initial results may be seen within 2-3 days.
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Often preferred for larger treatment areas due to its tendency to diffuse more widely.
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Effects typically last around 3-4 months.
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3. Xeomin (IncobotulinumtoxinA)
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Manufacturer: Merz Pharmaceuticals
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FDA Approval: 2011
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How It Works: Xeomin works by blocking the release of acetylcholine, similar to Botox and Dysport. It is a "naked" neurotoxin, meaning it does not contain any accessory proteins.
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Unique Features:
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Purity: Free from complexing proteins, which may reduce the risk of developing resistance.
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Initial results typically seen within 3-5 days, with full results in about 1 week.
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Effects last approximately 3-4 months.
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4. Jeuveau (PrabotulinumtoxinA)
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Manufacturer: Evolus
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FDA Approval: 2019
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How It Works: Jeuveau, like other neurotoxins, works by blocking acetylcholine release, preventing muscle contractions and smoothing wrinkles.
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Unique Features:
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Marketed specifically for aesthetic purposes, often referred to as "Newtox."
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Initial results typically seen within 2-3 days, with full results in about 1 week.
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Effects last approximately 3-4 months.
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**Note: Jeuveau is our clinic's favorite tox due to it's support of small business and it's great reward program. You save $40 every
3 months as long as you get 20 units or more. The results are much more natural, allowing for more movement of facial muscle without static lines forming.**​​
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5. Daxxify (DaxibotulinumtoxinA-lanm)
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Manufacturer: Revance Therapeutics
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FDA Approval: 2022
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How It Works: Daxxify works similarly to other neurotoxins by inhibiting acetylcholine release, but it includes a proprietary peptide technology that aims to extend the duration of effects.
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Longer duration of effects; may last up to 6 months or more.
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Initial results typically seen within 1-2 days.
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Suitable for patients seeking longer-lasting wrinkle reduction with fewer treatments per year.
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**Note: Our clinic does not currently carry Daxxify.
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Conclusion
Each neurotoxin available in the US has unique properties that can be tailored to individual patient needs. Botox is the most recognized and studied, Dysport spreads more easily making it ideal for larger areas, Xeomin's purity may reduce resistance, Jeuveau offers a fresh option specifically for aesthetics, and Daxxify boasts a longer-lasting effect. Consulting with a qualified professional can help determine which neurotoxin is best suited for your specific needs and aesthetic goals.
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