Botulinum Toxin Injections or commonly known as Botox has obtained FDA approval which is indicated for all types of dynamic wrinkles resulting from persistent muscle contractions including forehead lines, brow wrinkles, and the edges of the eyes. The non-aesthetic indications for using botulinum toxin include hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) on the palms, soles and axillae (armpit folds). Botulinum toxin inhibits neuromuscular transmission and inhibits the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine so that it can reduce wrinkles due to a reduction in muscle activity locally.
Before injecting botulinum toxin there are 5 things you need to know:
- The results of botulinum toxin injections are temporary
The results of botulinum toxin injections are not permanent. The level of resistance depends on the location of the injection in the facial area, generally it can last 3-4 months, while in cases of hyperhidrosis it can last around 8-12 months. Therefore to get long lasting results this action can be repeated periodically. - Botulinum toxin injections are different from mesobotox
Mesobotox is one of the procedures for reducing fine lines, shrinking pores, resulting in smoother and younger looking skin. The difference is that mesobotox injections are done in a shallow layer of skin and can be done on the entire face, especially the T area, in contrast to botulinum toxin injections in general, which are injected into certain muscle layers according to indications. - Botulinum toxin injection resistance
Botulinum toxin resistance is rare, occurring in about 1 in every 10,000 cases. Because botulinum toxin is made from a toxin produced by a bacterium, the body will try to form resistance to the drug over time so as to form antibodies that can block the way botulinum toxin works and cause the facial muscles to recover very quickly. In addition, several causes of botulinum toxin injections not working properly can be due to the dosage given being inappropriate, botulinum toxin dilution is too dilute and when botulinum toxin bottles are opened they are not used immediately and the wrong injection technique and location. - Botulinum toxin injections have some side effects
In some cases, botox injections can cause several side effects, such as: ptosis of the eyelids which can occur after injection in the eyebrow area, eyelid edema, headaches usually occur in the injection area in the upper third of the face and weakness in the palms after injection for hyperhidrosis. - Avoid some physical activity after botulinum toxin injections
After carrying out botulinum toxin injections, you should avoid some physical activities that can reduce the effectiveness of this action.- Avoid rubbing the facial area
- Avoid lying down for at least the first 4 hours
- Avoid washing your face or using cream for at least the first 6 hours
- Avoid strenuous physical activity for at least the first 24 hours
- Avoid direct contact with heat or sunlight for the first 24 hours, always use sunscreen to protect your skin.
Those are 5 things you need to know before carrying out the botulinum toxin injection procedure. To get effective, precise, and safe results, consult the condition of your face and skin health with a specialist who is experienced in this field, to suit your needs and health.
Article written by dr. Pipim S. Bayasari, SpDV (Skin and Genital Specialist at EMC Sentul Hospital).