The stigma of sticking a needle in your face may be gone, but not everyone knows the intricacies between the major and minor players that make up the injectables industry — here’s everything you need to about Botox and Xeomin.
Botulinum toxin, a neurotoxin, is the active ingredient in both Botox and Xeomin. In the 1950s, scientists discovered that this naturally occurring Neurotoxin decreased muscle activity by blocking signals from the nerves to the muscles. With the injected muscle unable to contract, the treated wrinkles relax and soften for up to six months.
While Botox is a product that has become synonymous with anti-aging, along with the wrinkle-reduction benefits of Neurotoxins, the popular cosmetic injectable is equipped to treat a multitude of medical conditions like hyperhidrosis and migraines.
Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating. If you regularly sweat through your clothes and both drug-store and prescription-grade deodorants don’t seem to be cutting it, it may be time to look utilizing a neurotoxin.
The injectable works by blocking the nerves responsible for activating your sweat glands. The body sends signals to the glands to cool down the body when the body temperature rises. When the Botox is injected into the overactive area, the nerves are paralyzed. The paralysis makes it impossible for the nerves to signal the glands, which in turn makes it impossible to produce sweat.
Migraines
Those who suffer from migraines will often try anything, and Botox is a popular method to reduce chronic migraines.
The neurotoxin is injected around the nerve endings where the migraines are concentrated and thus blocks the release of chemicals that transmit pain in the brain. This preventative procedure lasts for 10-12 weeks.
The difference between Xeomin and Botox
While they both ultimately perform the same functions, the main difference is the formula. Xeomin is often the preferred neurotoxin for those that are allergic to Botox: sometimes called a “naked” neurotoxin, Xeomin is exclusively made up of botulinum toxin A, while Botox contains other proteins that cluster around the active ingredient. Additionally, Xeomin takes a few days longer to kick in.
Although the two are dosed similarly, it is best left to an injector to determine which injectable is right for you.
Whether you’re a seasoned injectable user, or you’re simply curious about what a neurotoxin can do for you, give us a call at (727) 545-3376 for the best care in Pinellas Park Florida.