Botulinum Toxin: Understand How the Procedure Works

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Botulinum toxin is one of the most sought-after treatments today due to its quick and safe results. Due to the myths that have arisen in recent years surrounding botulinum toxin type A, the Skin Clinic | Dr. Szerman clarifies the main questions about the topic for you. Check it out!

Did you know there is an ideal time to apply botulinum toxin?

Understand how this procedure works and when it should be an option for you. Read this article until the end!

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How does botulinum toxin work?

Botulinum toxin is a substance that works in various areas of medicine. It is used to treat hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), strabismus, dystonia (involuntary muscle contractions), and for skin rejuvenation.

When it comes to treating wrinkles and expression lines, botulinum toxin is applied preventively, meaning before the formation of deep folds and lines on the skin. To put it simply, when botulinum toxin is injected into specific points on the face, it blocks the nerve cells that release acetylcholine, the substance responsible for muscle contraction.

As a result, when electrical signals are sent to our muscles (to make them contract and move), this action is blocked or minimized, preventing the appearance of wrinkles and expression lines in the targeted area.

Is Botox for the face the same as fillers?

Actually, no. Botox and dermal fillers are different treatments, although both are commonly used together to prevent skin aging.

Botox is a procedure that uses botulinum toxin to temporarily paralyze specific muscles on the face. It works by blocking nerve signals that cause muscle contractions, helping to smooth out wrinkles and expression lines.

On the other hand, dermal fillers are another type of procedure that uses hyaluronic acid as the active ingredient. Fillers are injected into the skin to fill in wrinkles and lines, reducing their depth and restoring lost volume.

So, while Botox focuses on relaxing the muscles to prevent wrinkles, fillers add volume to the skin, treating deeper lines and hollows. Both treatments complement each other for a more youthful appearance.

Can any wrinkle be treated with Botox?

No, botulinum toxin is used to correct dynamic wrinkles that appear due to facial expressions, such as forehead lines and crow’s feet. These wrinkles require muscle paralysis for correction.

However, when the wrinkle is more elastic, like permanent folds that appear regardless of facial expressions (such as nasolabial folds), there is a need for treatment with dermal fillers, specifically hyaluronic acid. Fillers help to fill in and smooth out these deeper, static wrinkles by adding volume to the skin.

When to undergo the procedure?

The start of treatment is determined through a conversation between the dermatologist and the patient, as the recommendation may vary from person to person. In general, botulinum toxin is recommended when the patient notices the appearance of wrinkles, usually around the age of 30. From this point onward, investing in the technique is an option to slow down the progression of the aging process.

Consult Dermatology in Copacabana, RJ – Schedule now via WhatsApp by clicking: Want to know more about the treatment.

Botulinum Toxin

Wrinkles and Botulinum toxin type-a

Botulinum toxin type a injections is responsible for treating dynamic wrinkles, which only appear when we make facial expressions (such as smiling, frowning, or showing surprise) and are not visible when the face is at rest. These wrinkles appear around the eyes (crow’s feet), on the forehead, and between the eyebrows (glabella).

On the other hand, static wrinkles are those that are visible even without facial movements, meaning they have already formed. These can be softened through specific treatments like hyaluronic acid fillers and MD Codes. There are also gravitational wrinkles, which, unlike those caused by muscle contractions from facial expressions, are due to gravity and facial volume loss, such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines.

Contraindications for botulinum toxin treatments

The application of botulinum toxin is generally safe, with few contraindications. There is no specific age recommendation; it depends on each case and the doctor’s guidance. In fact, it can even be used as a preventive measure to avoid the appearance of wrinkles.

Some people begin using it right after turning 25 years old. The primary contraindications are for breastfeeding and pregnant women, as well as individuals who are allergic to botulinum toxin.

People with neuromuscular diseases or those who use anticoagulants should also avoid the procedure.

How to Make Botox Last Longer?

The results of botulinum toxin can be seen a few days after the application, with its full benefits reaching their peak between one and two weeks after the procedure. However, what many don’t know is that these results can be prolonged. There are several factors that determine how long the effects last, including:

  • Timing of the Procedure: Did you know that when you start the procedure impacts the quality of the result? Since botulinum toxin works as a preventive measure, not on wrinkles and folds that are already established, the sooner you notice the need for the treatment and undergo the procedure, the better the outcome. If facial expressions are already marked, the toxin won’t act preventively but can still help prevent further deepening of those lines.
  • Regularity of the Procedure: The effect of botulinum toxin in paralyzing muscles and preventing expression lines lasts around four to six months. New applications will be necessary after this period. Regular treatments can help weaken the muscle over time, which may result in longer-lasting effects from each application.
  • Post-Procedure Care: Immediately after the botulinum toxin injection, it is recommended that the patient avoid makeup, touching the treated area, or lying down for six hours to prevent the product from moving to other areas. Physical activities can be resumed the following day.
  • Patient’s Routine: Our habits define our expressions and how much we encourage them. Wearing sunglasses in the summer helps avoid furrowing the forehead, as does wearing prescription glasses according to your needs. A healthy diet is also crucial. Not only does it keep your health in check, but it also prevents wrinkles. Excessive sugar consumption affects collagen production, which is responsible for skin firmness. Prioritize foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as healthy fats found in nuts (like almonds and walnuts), fish, and tuna.

Do I Need to Rest After Botox on the Face?

No, there is no need for rest after using botulinum toxin, and you can return to your routine on the same day. In general, side effects of botulinum toxin are rare. However, it is recommended to avoid excessive sun exposure and intense physical exercise. Additionally, it’s important to avoid keeping your head down for long periods, especially right after the procedure.

Testimonial About Botox


“My most recent treatment at Dr. Szerman’s clinic was the application of botox in certain areas of my face. The procedure was extremely quick and practically painless. What made me most satisfied was the natural look of the botox results.”

Consult a Dermatologist

Only a qualified professional can help with skin rejuvenation safely and effectively. The Clínica de Pele | Dr. Szerman has over 50 years of clinical experience with expert dermatologists.

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