How Does Xeomin® Work?
The active ingredient in muscle-relaxing treatments like FDA-approved Xeomin® is a protein from the Clostridium botulinum organism, which occurs naturally in soil, marine environments, plants, and animals. Xeomin® contains small doses of this botulinum toxin, which disrupts signals sent between the nerves and muscles. This allows the skin attached to the muscles to lie smoother for months, since the muscles don’t flex as much.
Some patients may develop antibodies and become “immune” or unresponsive to certain neuromodulators, because the treatments contain preservatives that gradually cause this response. These patients may find that the effectiveness of their injections eventually reduce.
The manufacturing process for Xeomin®, a newer injectable on the market, is different from that of its fellow neuromodulators. Xeomin® is made with a highly purified form of botulinum toxin—but, unlike other similar wrinkle-fighting injections, does not have any foreign accessory and complexing proteins or additives that aren’t necessary for it to work. This is why it is sometimes called a “naked injectable.” Patients are less likely to become resistant to its effects or have allergic reactions to this injectable.
Which Areas are Treatable with Xeomin ®?
Xeomin® is effective on dynamic wrinkles—which result from facial muscle activity—on the forehead. Repetitive facial movements over time, such as squinting and frowning, can eventually cause these lines to appear and deepen.
While youthful skin is typically able to quickly settle back to its original shape after moving during an expression, it eventually loses some of its elasticity. Active muscles used to convey expressions take their toll over time, creating wrinkles that show especially when your face is mobile.
Moderate to severe glabellar lines—the vertical “angry 11s” between the eyebrows where the skin furrows together—can also reduce with Xeomin ®.
Patients are still able to make facial expressions after a treatment, but the targeted area will remain smooth, appearing rejuvenated and youthful.
Injections that keep muscles at rest may also prevent additional lines from forming.
Preparing for Xeomin ®
Patients may need to avoid certain medications before a Xeomin ® session, including blood-thinning drugs, certain over-the-counter medications and supplements, and muscle relaxants. You provider will assess your medical history during the consultation, as well as discuss possible risks. Be sure to consult with a primary care physician or similar professional before stopping any prescribed medications.
What to Expect from a Xeomin ® Session
Just prior to the treatment, your injector will numb the skin. Most people experience only minimal discomfort during the injection process. The injections themselves are typically “warm” and tolerable, because the contents don’t require refrigeration. Xeomin ® is administered with a fine needle into specific muscles. Sessions routinely complete in less than 15 minutes.
What Happens After a Xeomin ® Treatment?
There is no downtime or significant recovery time necessary after Xeomin ® injections. Patients can return to their day-to-day activities right away. Optimal results typically appear around seven days later. Mild soreness, bruising, and headaches may occur.
Xeomin ® results generally last three to four months, though each patient’s age and skin condition affect their lifespan. It’s better to avoid subjecting the treatment site to excessive heat or touching the area during the first few days after injections, before the Xeomin ® has fully settled, since high temperatures and pressure can cause it to migrate to other muscle areas.
Are There Treatments for Other Facial Lines?
For static wrinkles, which are not related to muscle motion in the way dynamic wrinkles are, patients can choose from a range of cosmetic dermatology treatments, including the dermal fillers Juvéderm®, Radiesse®, and Belotero® Balance.
