Botulinum Toxin (Botox)

Botulinum toxin pharmacological effect takes place at the neuromuscular junction. In this transitional region between the peripheral nerve and the muscle, the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter necessary to produce muscle contraction, takes place. Botulinum toxin works locally (at the injection area) by blocking the release of acetylcholine, which produces a temporary muscle paralysis. The final effect is a temporary chemical denervation at the neuromuscular junction without producing any physical injury to nerve structures.

When diluted, it is one of the best performing treatments for wrinkle removal or rhytidosis. Through infiltration with an extra fine needle into the muscle under the skin of the target area, this form of botulinum toxin acts by relaxing and inhibiting muscle movement. This effect is intended to disappear wrinkles and therefore provide a younger appearance of the skin. Its effect is temporary, lasting from 3 to 6 months, after which period it must be repeated.  Side effects such as allergic reactions, facial stiffness or nausea have rarely been reported.

It is not a painful treatment and requires no recovery time or care and unlike other skin rejuvenation treatments, there is no problem in exposing the skin to the sun.