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Monday, December 12, 2011

Xeomin - the new kid on the block

Competition is good.  First we had Botox.  Then Dysport came on the scene.  And now we have Xeomin.  They all are neurotoxins that work to smooth out lines in the forehead, around the eyes, improve bunny lines, fix a gummy smile, help smoker's lines, soften the jawline, and relax neck lines (although they're all only approved for the glabellar eleven lines).  So what's the difference between these three muskateers?

How They Work
All three work by temporarily inhibiting release of a chemical called acetylcholine from nerves.  Acetylcholine works as a messenger, telling the muscles to contract.  In a nutshell: no release, no signal, no contraction, no lines. 

Proteins
Botox and Dysport consist of botulinum toxin that is complexed with accessory proteins.  Once injected, the proteins separate from the toxin.  Xeomin does not have the accessory proteins.  Having no proteins may decrease the possibility of developing antibodies to the proteins, which make the injections less (or not) effective. 

How They Act
Both Botox and Xeomin start to work about a week after injection and last about 3-4 months.  Dysport may work a little faster, and may last a little longer, although the results vary.  Some reports have shown that dysport may locally diffuse further than Botox once injected.  Sometimes this means that less has to be injected to achieve a pleasing, natural result. 

Storage
Unlike Botox and Dysport, Xeomin does not need to be refrigerated -- great if we lose power in South Florida during hurricane season!

Most importantly, no matter which you choose, make sure a board certified physician in one of the core specialties: dermatology or plastic surgery is performing the treatment.  Have fun ringing in the new year wrinkle free!