| What is it used for?Clostridium botulinum was first used by ophthalmologists in the early 1980s to correct muscle disorders of the eye, including lazy eye and uncontrolled blinking. Later that decade, two Canadian doctors, Alistair and Jean Carruthers, observed the toxin could also improve dynamic facial wrinkles (the wrinkles that form when we smile, frown or otherwise move our facial muscles). Soon, the toxin was being applied cosmetically to non-invasively rejuvenate age- and sun-damaged skin. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also approved botulinum neurotoxin treatment for excessive underarm sweating (primary axillary hyperhidrosis). The toxin blocks chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate sweat glands. About 1.3 million Americans have this often-embarrassing medical condition. When administered by an experienced, trained healthcare professional, botulinum toxin treatments offer a highly effective way of reducing undesirable facial wrinkles and folds, leaving your face looking younger and more relaxed for months at a time. BotoxBotox has received FDA approval for the treatment of moderate to severe brow (glabellar) lines in adults aged 18 to 65 years. It’s also used to minimize other wrinkles on the face and neck, including tiny crow’s feet around the eyes and smoker’s lines around the lips. Treatments take just a few minutes. The procedure is relatively pain-free, although you may experience some mild stinging or burning during the injections. You can return to your normal routine immediately afterward, although you should avoid rubbing the treated area for 2 or 3 hours. You won’t notice the full effect of the treatment for several days. Results vary, and tend to last for 3 to 4 months. To maintain the effect, you’ll need to undergo maintenance treatments several times a year. The most common side effects are bruising and a slight headache. Some people also experience flu-like symptoms, nausea, redness at the site of the injections, and some facial muscle weakness. Although bothersome, these symptoms usually dissipate within a few days. Several million Americans undergo Botox injections annually. It is the most frequently requested (by both men and women) cosmetic skin treatment in the United States. DysportUsed for more than 15 years in Europe, South America and Asia to treat neurological disorders and to reduce wrinkles, Dysport is likely to become available in the United States in 2009. It’s made from the same botulinum toxin as Botox, but may last three times as long—up to 13 months, according to one published study. Like Botox, Dysport helps improve moderate to severe wrinkles. Dysport is not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in the US. As with all cosmetic skin procedures, it’s important that you receive the treatment from an experienced healthcare professional. |