Botox
Understanding Botulin Toxin Type A - commonly referred to as Botox®
Injections with Botulin toxin type A has a variety of uses and is a popular cosmetic treatment that reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. As a patient you probably know botulinum toxin through a brand name – Botox®.
However, there are 5 brands that are licensed in the UK for cosmetic purposes. They are Azzalure®, Bocouture®, Botox®, Alluzience® and Letybo®. You may see other brands – Dysport® and Xeomin® – but these are licensed for non-cosmetic purposes. It is also used to treat a variety of medical conditions, such as migraine headaches, overactive bladders, excessive sweating, to relieve symptoms from teeth grinding and muscle spasms. Botulin Toxin is a prescription-only medicine. This means that it needs to be prescribed by a doctor or dentist. A nurse practitioner or pharmacist who has obtained their prescribing qualification will also be able to prescribe this.
What is Botulin Toxin Type A (Azzalure, Bocouture, Botox, Alluzience, Letybo) ?
Botulin Toxin Type A, commonly referred to as Botox, is also commonly referred to as anti-wrinkle injections. It is a neurotoxin that is derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When injected into a muscle, it blocks the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is responsible for muscle contraction. This causes the muscle to relax, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
How does Botulin Toxin (Botox, Azzalure, Bocouture, Alluzience, Letybo) work?
When one of the licensed brands of Botulin Toxin type A, such as Botox is injected into the muscles that are responsible for facial expressions, the muscles are relaxed and then skin appears smoother and younger. The effects typically last three to four months.
People get injections with Botulin Toxin with brands such as Botox, Azzalure, Bocouture, Alluzience and Letybo for several reasons, including:
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
- Improves the appearance of crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead wrinkles
- Can treat a variety of medical conditions, such as migraine headaches, excessive sweating, and muscle spasms
What having Botulinum Toxin Injections (Botox, Azzalure, Bocouture, Alluzience, Letybo) involves
Your skin will be sterilised and the treatment areas will be marked. Several injections with a small needle will be made into the targeted muscles. The treatment normally takes around 10 minutes. You will not see a change straight away. It takes 2 to 5 days to start working and two to three weeks to see the full effect.
What are the risks of injections with Botulin Toxins such as Botox, Azzalure, Bocouture, Alluzience or Letybo?
The risks of Botulin Toxin injections are small if it is done correctly by a suitably qualified practitioner. Like all sorts of aesthetic and cosmetic procedures, these treatments carry risks including:
- Bruising and swelling at the injection site
- Headache
- Temporary drooping of the eyelids or eyebrows
- Dry mouth
- Allergic reaction
- Very rarely serious problems such as blurred or double vision can happen if the area around the eyes is treated or swallowing or breathing difficulties if the neck is treated.
How much does a treatment with Botulin toxin (Botox, Azzalure, Bocouture, Alluzience or Letybo) cost?
The cost of treatment varies depending on the amount of Botox used and the number of areas treated. However, it typically ranges from £200 to £700 per treatment.
How long does it take to see results?
The results of Botox treatment can be seen within a few days. The effects of Botox typically last three to four months.
Further FAQs
Botox injections are usually not painful. However, people may experience some discomfort at the injection site.
The effects of Botox typically last three to four months.
The frequency of Botox treatments depends on an individual’s needs. However, most people get Botox treatments every three to four months.
Yes, they can use other cosmetic treatments with Botox. However, they should talk to a doctor before using any other treatments.
There are several alternatives to Botox, such as dermal fillers, laser resurfacing, and dermabrasion. These treatments can be used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
