Facial expressions often use facial solid muscles, creasing the skin over time and prematurely showing signs of aging. With the help of wrinkle relaxers or neuromodulators, they temporarily paralyze the facial muscles that cause wrinkles, restoring a refreshed, youthful facial look. Wrinkle relaxers or neuromodulators are injectable treatments made from a naturally-occurring substance called botulism toxin, which the FDA approves.
When wrinkle relaxers or neuromodulators are strategically injected into targeted facial muscles, they temporarily block nerve signals to and from those muscles to stop them from contracting and forming wrinkles. They can also lift the brow, reduce the appearance of jowls and neck bands, shape the jawline, and more. The most common treatment areas include frown lines between the eyebrows and lines around the eyes and mouth.
How Do Wrinkle Relaxers Work?
The injectable treatments temporarily relax the muscles of the face that contract and ultimately cause wrinkling. While facial expressions are lovely, these movements cause ‘active’ wrinkles or wrinkles secondary to activity. In this case, neurotoxins prevent the release of signals (acetylcholine) from the nerves to the muscles, resulting in inhibited muscle contraction, and the muscles from facial expressions are given the freedom to relax and soften.
As indicated, the forehead lines, sagging eyelids, vertical lines between the eyes, “crow’s feet” around the eyes, chin dimples, axilla (axillary hyperhidrosis), and vertical lip lines are the most commonly injected areas. Correspondingly, a tiny needle is used, which is barely noticeable during the treatment. No general anesthesia or stitches are needed, and no extended recovery time.
What Do Wrinkle Relaxers Treat?
- Frown Lines
- Brow Lift
- Crows Feet
- Platysmal Bands
- Bunny Lines
- Lip Flip
- Gummy Smile
- Bell’s Palsy
- Migraine Headache
- TMJ/ face slimming
- Hyperhydrosis or excessive sweating
What Are The Different Treatment Options Of Neuromodulators?
Below are the different wrinkle-relaxing treatments, which include:
Botox
Botox is one of the world’s most universally loved and respected wrinkle relaxing treatments. This wrinkle relaxer has been a versatile anti-aging injectable treatment that can target both the upper face, like the crow’s feet and forehead, as well as the mid-to-lower face and smile lines.
Dysport
Considered the second most common wrinkle relaxer, Dysport is just as versatile as Botox. The only difference is that the Botox treatment can address moderate-to-severe wrinkle concerns, while Dysport can address mild or moderate wrinkles.
This is because the Dysport formula is more diluted than Botox and can be spread beneath the skin surface to get that more natural-looking, subtle relaxation.
Xeomin
It has been categorized as a specialized wrinkle relaxer that delivers a concentrated “naked” dose of neurotoxin to the targeted treatment area. In general, Xeomin is used to treat glabellar lines, the wrinkles that form between the eyebrows.
Jeuveau
Jeuveau has a very similar formula to Botox, with a purified neurotoxin that relaxes the facial muscles. In particular, the treatment can help address the upper face and frown lines around the mouth. That said, this relaxer is ideal for patients who have moderate wrinkles.
Restylane
Restylane is another wrinkle relaxer made in a clear gel substance called hyaluronic acid. It acts like the body’s hyaluronic acid, which helps to correct all moderate to severe facial folds and wrinkles. It includes the lines from the nose towards the sides of the mouth.
Who Are Good Candidates For Wrinkle Relaxers?
It is suitable for many different candidates. However, the treatment is not recommended for those who are pregnant, nursing, or have certain neurological conditions, which would be addressed during the consultation with the provider.
What Are The Possible Risks and Side Effects?
Most people who often get Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, or other neuromodulators do not experience severe side effects after the treatment. However, some risks and side effects may still arise, and the patient should be aware of them before getting any of these products injected into their face.
In addition, some of the most common side effects of neuromodulators are swelling, bruising, redness, and pain at the injection site. Do not worry, as these side effects are usually mild and disappear after a few days. On the other hand, more severe side effects may include difficulty swallowing, drooping eyelids, and muscle weakness, which must be consulted with a doctor.
Nonetheless, these side effects are rare and usually happen when the neuromodulator is injected into the wrong area. If severe side effects occur, it is advised to seek medical help immediately. However, in general, neuromodulators are safe for most people, but it is still best to consult a doctor before injecting any of these products into the face.
What Should I Expect Post-Treatment?
Neuromodulators or wrinkle relaxers are well-tolerated. The treatment comprises a series of precise injections with a tiny needle. This process only takes a few minutes.
Moreover, there is no downtime associated with Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, or Jeuveau. When the procedure is complete, there is typically mild swelling and redness around the pin-prick injection sites. This dissipates within a few minutes.
Typically, wrinkle modulators take effect 2-14 days following treatment. Usually, the results last 3-5 months, and repeated injections are necessary to maintain the achieved effects, so follow-up sessions are recommended. Patients often receive three to four treatments a year to easily retain their youthful appearance.
When Will I See The Result?
As mentioned, results from injectable neuromodulators are visible within two to fourteen days, depending on the injectable type. However, the full result will appear two weeks after treatment. Wrinkle-reducing treatments like Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau typically last three to five months.
Final Thoughts
Repeated muscle movements lead to early signs of aging, like fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet, and furrows between the eyebrows. Key Wellness, PLLC offers Jeuveau, a Neurotoxin they use to temporarily enhance moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows and stop the nerves from telling the facial muscles to flex, smoothing moderate to severe lines between the brows temporarily. Overall, Jeuveau is a quick, 10-minute treatment that will leave you looking natural, refreshed, and happier.
