Botulinum toxin is a type of neurotoxin. While it presents as a lethal substance when ingested, injected botulinum toxin is generally safe and plays a significant role in the field of medical aesthetics.
Botulinum toxin interferes with neural transmission by blocking nerve signals to muscles, which weakens and relaxes the muscles. Since the muscles at the treated are unable to contract or tense up, it will reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face, and/or slim the treated area. Depending on the injection techniques and injection depths, Botulinum toxin can help to achieve various aesthetic results.
- For glass skin effect: Botulinum toxin is injected into the superficial layers of the skin to target the appearance of pores and fine lines. This in turn creates an all-over smoothing effect. In addition, it can help to regulate oil production, facial flushing and acne.
- For a facelifting effect: Botulinum toxin is injected into the dermal layer of the skin to stimulate collagen production and tighten existing collagen fibres. When administered into specific spots on the face, such as the brow area, jowls, and nasolabial folds, this treatment creates an overall lifting effect for the face.
- For a slimming effect: Botulinum Toxin is injected into areas with strong muscle definition such as the jaw, calves, and biceps to relax the muscle groups. The selectively muscle-weakening stops its contraction, which leads to a decrease in muscle mass and volume. This in turn slims the area of treatment.
- For preventive measures: Micro-doses of botulinum toxin are injected into areas such as the forehead, crow’s feet, and brow furrows, and the doses are distributed more widely with additional injection points. It prevents the formation of wrinkles while still allowing for some facial movement and expression. This delivers a natural-looking result with a fresh-faced look.
- For excessive perspiration: Botulinum toxin is injected into the superficial skin layer to treat excessive sweating. It inhibits nerve signals responsible for sweating, thus reducing sweat production. This can be administered at the underarm, palms, and soles of the feet, and the dosage can be adjusted to the degree of dryness desired by the patient.
Botulinum toxin injection is a temporal treatment that typically lasts around three to six months. The “blocking” effect botulinum toxin naturally wears off as your body constantly generates new neurotransmitters.
For those who are seeking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and slim their jaws. Note: Suitability and amount administered will be determined after a doctor consultation.
The duration of this treatment is around 45 minutes. This includes the duration for topical numbing cream to take effect.
You might feel some discomfort during the treatment, but most patients find it bearable. There might be redness and slight bruising at the injected area(s), which will subside in the next couple of days. There is no downtime, so you can resume your activities right after the treatment.
Results would show in about two weeks time, and last for up to six months. However, results could vary across individuals.
