Botox has become a general term for botulinum toxin injectables. While they all help smooth wrinkles and diminish signs of aging, there are differences. We have compiled a Botox guide to help you understand the different types of Botox and how to choose the best type for your needs.
What Is Botox?
Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Jeuveau use botulinum toxin to paralyze nerve endings. This prevents the muscles from contracting normally, therefore preventing fine lines and wrinkles. Within the “Botox” umbrella there is a growing number of specific types of treatments. These include “Baby Botox”, “BroTox”, “NewTox”, “BlowTox”, and “Budget Botox”.
Baby Botox
Baby Botox refers to the specific treatment of Botox in younger patients to help prevent or slow down the progression of lines around the eyes, eyebrows, and forehead. This term often refers to subtle, rather than drastic changes. The doctor uses smaller amounts of Botox to offer smaller, more subtle changes. This caters to a large population of interested patients.
BroTox
Botox is not just for women. According to a 2018 AAFPRS report, Botox is the most common nonsurgical procedure for men. Many men choose to have “BroTox” for a rejuvenated look. Many men have deep frown lines, which can cause a person to look older and even angry. BroTox can help that! Many men also seek treatment for crow’s feet and frown lines.
NewTox
Jeuveau, or “NewTox”, is one of the newest neurotoxin injectables. It is FDA approved for treatment of moderate to severe glabellar lines. These are the lines between the eyebrows. While still newer on the market, Jeuveau works better for some people than Botox. Over time, long time users of Botox may find that they have become resistant to it and no longer achieve their desired affects. In this case, it may be time to make a switch to “NewTox”
BlowTox for Scalp Sweating
Do you struggle with an overly sweaty scalp? Botox may be able to help. “BlowTox” is a nickname given to Botox that is injected into the scalp to prevent perspiration. For some, excessive sweating is a medical condition. For others, its more a matter of keeping a sweaty scalp from ruining a hairstyle.
Sweat can cause your hair to be limp and lifeless. Women who routinely get blowouts are attracted to the idea of “BlowTox” because it can make the blowout hairstyle last longer. While it may sound facetious, it’s true. Botox is reported to reduce oil production and sweating. It’s even FDA approved for treating hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweating).
Botox blocks the chemical messengers that trigger your sweat glands. Reducing oil and sweat in the scalp means your hair won’t be dragged down with moisture and grease. The downside to this is that the treatments are more expensive. This is due to the large area of the scalp. Results last between 3-5 months, so you will need several treatments each year.
Dangers of “Budget Botox”
According to a study by the Plastic Surgery journal, a frightening number of people have decided to DIY Botox. These people purchased Botox kits online with the intention of learning to inject to toxin into their own face by watching videos found online and downloading “Botox injection maps”. Even more disturbing is that many of these people knew that this practice was unsafe but chose to move forward anyways.
Needless to say, this is not safe. Botox requires a trained, licensed professional. While injecting may look easy on YouTube, it actually requires immense skill and medical knowledge of the body and how it works. Furthermore, Botox purchased online may be counterfeit. Always seek a trained physician. Your health and safety depend on it.
Botox for You
If you are interested in Botox treatment, you may be wondering which type is best for you. Contact Reston Dermatology today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options!