A growing number of people are using neuromodulators to minmize the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines. The wrinkle-causing muscles are momentarily relaxed by these treatments, giving the skin a smoother, younger-looking appearance. Neuromodulators such as Botox®, Jeuveau, and Dysport are commonly used in cosmetic procedures to target specific face areas, offering a non-surgical solution to aging skin. The effects are noticeable within days, with minimal downtime and discomfort.
What Are Neuromodulators?
Neuromodulators are substances that alter nerve activity by affecting neurotransmitter signaling. In the context of cosmetic treatments, they are typically used to minimze wrinkles and fine lines formation. The most commonly used neuromodulators in cosmetic procedures are Botulinum Toxin Type A products, including Botox®, Jeuveau, and Dysport.
These substances block the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contraction. When injected into specific facial muscles, neuromodulators prevent the muscles from contracting strongly, softening and smoothing the overlying skin. This temporary muscle relaxation helps reduce the visibility of dynamic wrinkles, which are formed from repetitive facial movements like frowning, squinting, or smiling.
The effects of neuromodulators are not permanent, usually lasting between three to six months, after which the treatment can be repeated. This temporary nature allows for adjustments in treatment areas and dosage over time, tailored to the patient’s evolving cosmetic needs.
Types of Neuromodulators
Several types of neuromodulators are used in cosmetic treatments, with the most popular being Botox®, Jeuveau, and Dysport. Each of these products contains Botulinum Toxin Type A but has unique properties that make it suitable for different patients and treatment goals.
Botox®
Botox® is the most well-known and widely used neuromodulator. Approved by the FDA for cosmetic use in 2002, it has a long track record of safety and efficacy. Botox® is commonly used to treat forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines. Its precise formulation allows for targeted treatment, resulting in natural-looking results.
Jeuveau
Jeuveau, also known as “Newtox,” is the latest neuromodulator to receive FDA approval for cosmetic use. It is similar to Botox® in its formulation and application but is often chosen for its slightly faster onset of action. Patients might see results a bit sooner with Jeuveau, making it an attractive option for those looking for quick improvements.
Dysport
Dysport is another FDA-approved neuromodulator that works similarly to Botox® and Jeuveau. One key difference is that Dysport has a slightly different protein structure, which allows it to spread more easily over larger areas. This characteristic makes Dysport particularly effective for treating larger treatment areas, such as the forehead, with fewer injections.
Cosmetic Applications
Neuromodulators like Botox®, Jeuveau, and Dysport primarily address facial wrinkles and fine lines caused by repetitive muscle movements. These treatments offer a non-surgical solution to aging skin, helping individuals achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance. Here are some of the most common cosmetic applications of neuromodulators:
Forehead Lines
- Description: Horizontal lines are caused by frequently raising the eyebrows.
- Treatment: Neuromodulators are injected into the forehead muscles to relax them.
- Result: Smoother and more youthful forehead appearance.
Crow’s Feet
- Description: Fine lines around the outer corners of the eyes from smiling and squinting.
- Treatment: Injections target the orbicularis oculi muscle to reduce crinkling.
- Result: More open and refreshed eye appearance.
Frown Lines (Glabellar Lines)
- Description: Vertical lines between the eyebrows from frowning or squinting.
- Treatment: Neuromodulator injections relax the muscles in this area.
- Result: Reduced appearance of frown lines and prevention of deepening.
Brow Lift
- Description: Achieving a lifted brow appearance without surgery.
- Treatment: Strategic injections around the brows relax muscles, subtly lifting them.
- Result: More alert and youthful look.
Lip Lines
- Description: Fine vertical lines around the mouth, often called smoker’s lines.
- Treatment: Injections relax the muscles around the lips.
- Result: Smoother appearance and subtly fuller lips.
Neck Bands
- Description: Vertical lines on the neck are caused by aging and muscle activity.
- Treatment: Neuromodulator injections into the platysma muscle.
- Result: Smoother and more youthful neck appearance.
The Procedure
It begins with a consultation with a qualified practitioner, who assesses the patient’s facial structure, skin condition, and specific concerns. This helps determine the appropriate areas for injection and the amount of product needed to achieve the desired results.
On the day of the procedure, the treatment area is thoroughly cleaned, and a topical anesthetic may be applied to minimize any discomfort. The practitioner then uses a fine needle to inject the neuromodulator into the targeted muscles. The injections are typically quick, taking only a few minutes to complete, depending on the number of areas being treated.
Patients might feel a slight pinch or stinging sensation during the injections, but the discomfort is generally minimal and brief. After the injections, there is no significant downtime, allowing patients to resume their normal activities almost immediately. Some may experience mild redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites, but these side effects are temporary and usually subside within a few hours to a few days.
Post-Treatment
Post-treatment care involves simple guidelines, such as avoiding strenuous exercise, excessive heat, and lying down flat for a few hours after the procedure. Patients are also advised to refrain from rubbing or massaging the treated areas to prevent the neuromodulator from spreading to unintended muscles.
Results from neuromodulator injections become noticeable within a few days, with full effects typically visible after one to two weeks. The treated muscles gradually relax, leading to a smoother and more youthful appearance. The effects usually last between three to six months, after which follow-up treatments can be scheduled to maintain the results.
Takeaway
Neuromodulators like Botox®, Jeuveau, and Dysport offer a practical, non-surgical solution for reducing wrinkles and achieving a more youthful appearance. By targeting specific facial muscles, these treatments provide noticeable results with minimal downtime. If you’re looking to refresh your look and boost your confidence, Ori Aesthetics is here to help. Contact us for your assessment with our expert team today and discover the benefits of personalized neuromodulator treatments.
