The Valentine Clinic, in Vancouver Washington, offers two different neuromodulators or wrinkle relaxers: Botox and Xeomin.

How Neuromodulators or Wrinkle Relaxers Work

Wrinkle relaxers are injected into the facial muscles to relax the muscles to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Neuromodulators like Botox and Xeomin work to treat dynamic wrinkles.

Dynamic and Static Wrinkles

There is a distinction between dynamic wrinkles and static wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles are wrinkles that are visible on the face during muscular contractions such as frowning and squinting. Once these muscles relax, dynamic wrinkles disappear as the skin springs back to its original position. However, over time these dynamic wrinkles become creases in the skin even at rest.

Common dynamic wrinkles include:

• Frown lines between eyebrows

• Forehead wrinkles

• Crow’s feet

• Smile lines around the mouth

Wrinkle relaxers, like Botox, are an effective treatment for dynamic wrinkles as it temporarily and partially relaxes facial muscles. As dynamic wrinkles fade away when the underlying muscle contractions are relaxed, these dynamic wrinkles begin to smooth out, leading to a youthful refreshed look.

On the other hand, static wrinkles are visible even when facial muscles are relaxed. As we age, the production of collagen declines, causing the skin to lose its elasticity. As a result, dynamic wrinkles eventually become static wrinkles. Neuromodulators like Botox effectively prevent dynamic wrinkles in the forehead and smile lines around the eyes and mouth. However, they are not as effective when it comes to treatment of static wrinkles. Instead, Microneedling with Radiofrequency, injectable dermal fillers and PDO threads are best for addressing static wrinkles.

FAQs

How much does treatment cost?

Neuromodulators are priced per unit of active ingredient. Botox $12/unit, Xeomin $11/unit for less than 50 units.

Savings are often available for patients receiving more than 50 units or when receiving multiple treatments (PDO threads/Filler/RF Microneedling/Laser/Aquafirme) at the same appointment.

How are they different?

The main difference between Xeomin and Botox is that Xeomin contains just one ingredient: botulinum toxin A.

Xeomin is a “naked injectable,” meaning that it does not contain any additives or complex proteins. A benefit of a pure-form injectable like Xeomin is that the human body is less likely to become resistant to it. Botox contains an additional protein that may help results last longer compared to Xeomin.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects of wrinkle relaxers are rare. The most common side effect is a transient headache post injections. Temporary swelling and/or bruising can occur. There is also a risk of eyebrow or eyelid ptosis. However, this is a very rare complication in the hands of an experienced injector.

When will I start seeing results?

Results can be seen as early as 3 days post treatment, but full results can take up to 14 days. Results typically last 3 months but may last much longer with higher doses in the hands of an experienced injector.

What else can wrinkle relaxers be used for?

Cosmetically, they can be used to lift and shape the brow, remove furrows, lift the tip of the nose, lift the drooping edges of the mouth, tighten and slim jaw line, soften neck circular lines, soften neck vertical lines and get rid of “gummy” smiles. It can also effectively reduce migraines, TMJ pain and more.

How long is an appointment?

• 10 minutes for established patient

• 30 minutes for new patient