Prescription Dysport® injectable is a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment for temporarily lessening or eliminating moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows. Like BOTOX® Cosmetic, Dysport injectable is placed directly into the muscle underneath a furrow, weakening the muscle to the point where it cannot contract.
Dysport, also known as Reloxin, is made from a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum; it is the same neurotoxin used in BOTOX Cosmetic.
Applications for Dysport Injectable
Medically, Dysport injectable is used to treat excessive underarm sweating; symptoms of cervical dystonia, which include neck pain and abnormal head position; and muscle spasms. Cosmetically, Dysport injections are used to treat the following:
- Forehead furrows
- Frown lines
- Crow‘s feet
- Skin bands on the neck
Dysport Injectable Procedure and Results
Using a very fine needle, Dysport injectable is placed directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. No anesthetic is required, but some doctors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, and typically last up to 4 months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals.
Candidates for Dysport Injectable
According to the manufacturer‘s website, candidates for Dysport injectable are “adults less than 65 years of age” who want “temporary improvement in the look of moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines).” It may not be suitable for those with the following:
- Allergies to Dysport injectable or its ingredients
- An allergy to cow‘s milk protein
- Surgical facial changes
- Very weak muscles in the treatment area
- A face that looks very different on each side
- Inflammation or infection in the area to be injected
- Droopy eyelids or sagging eyelid folds
- Deep facial scars
- Thick, oily skin
- Wrinkles that cannot be smoothed when spread apart
Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, or has a neuromuscular disease, should not receive Dysport injectable.
Differences Between Dysport Injectable and BOTOX Cosmetic
Although made from the same bacterium, there is anecdotal evidence that Dysport injectable may last longer, spread farther and take effect more quickly than BOTOX Cosmetic.
Side Effects of Dysport Injectable
Side effects of Dysport injectable are usually mild and temporary, and normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections. Injection-site side effects include the following:
- Pain
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Bleeding
- Bruising
Eyelids can droop when Dysport injections are made in the glabellar region; they usually return to normal within 3 weeks. Side effects of Dysport injectable are the same as those of BOTOX Cosmetic.
Wrinkle Relaxers FAQ’s
What is a wrinkle relaxer?
A wrinkle relaxer is a type of cosmetic treatment used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It involves injecting a neurotoxin, or botulinum toxin such as Botox, into specific muscles. This neurotoxin temporarily relaxes the muscle, preventing them from contracting and forming wrinkles.
What is botulinum toxin?
Botulinum toxin is a protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. In small doses, botulinum toxin is used for both medical and cosmetic procedures. There are several types of botulinum toxin, but TYPE A is the most commonly used from cosmetic procedures. Type A botulinum toxin is the form found in the brand products Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau and Daxxify.
What can wrinkle relaxers be used to treat?
Wrinkle relaxers are commonly used to treat dynamic wrinkles, which are caused by facial repetitive facial expressions like frowning, squinting, or smiling.
What are the specific brands of wrinkle relaxers used in the United States?
In the United States, several brans of wrinkle relaxers are commonly used, including:
- Botox
- Dysport
- Xeomin
- Jeuveau
Each of these products uses botulinum toxin type A to temporarily relax facial muscles and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Is it possible to achieve natural looking results with wrinkle relaxers?
Yes, is possible to achieve natural-looking results with wrinkle relaxers. Key factors include:
- Choosing an Experienced Practitioner: A skilled and experienced practitioner understands facial anatomy and knows the precise injection sites and appropriate dosages to achieve a natural-looking result. An experienced provider also knowns an understands how to prevent and treat complications.
- Customized Treatment Plans: A tailored treatment plan is customized to the individual’s facial structure and desired outcomes can help maintain natural results.
How do wrinkle relaxers like Botox work to reduce fine lines and wrinkles?
Wrinkle relaxers like Botox work by targeting the underlying causes of fine lines and wrinkles: repeated muscle contractions from frowning, squinting, smiling, and other facial expressions. A small injection of botulinum toxin Type A is injected into a specific muscle using a fine needle. The botulinum toxin temporarily blocks the nerve signals to the muscle resulting in a relaxation of that muscle. The muscle is unable to contract as strongly, leading to a smoothing of the facial area treated. Reduced movement of the muscle results in reduced development of fine lines and deep wrinkles.
How long does a wrinkle relaxer treatment last?
The effects of a wrinkle relaxing treatment are temporary, typically lasting 3-6 months, after which the muscle action gradually returns, and the wrinkles may reappear, necessitating repeat treatments to maintain results.
Can bruising occur after a wrinkle relaxer treatment?
Yes, bruising can occur after a wrinkle relaxer treatment. This is a common side effect of the injection process. Factors that can contribute to bruising include:
- Needle penetration into the skin or small vessel beneath the skin.
- Some people are more prone to bruising than others due to their skin type or medical condition.
- Specific medications and supplements can increase the risk of bruising (vitamin E, fish oil, and ginkgo biloba, aspirin, ibuprofen, and prescribed blood thinning medications).
Can anyone administer wrinkle relaxer treatments?
No. The only persons who can administer wrinkle relaxer treatments are medical providers such as doctors, nurse practitioners, physician associates, and in some states registered nurses. State laws provide oversight on what medical providers are able to provide wrinkle relaxer treatments and these laws vary between states. Be sure to make sure your medical provider is licensed and trained to administer injectable treatments.
Are wrinkle relaxing treatments safe?
Yes. Wrinkle relaxing treatments are safe when performed by a well-trained, knowledgeable professional. The wrinkle relaxer products available in the United States have undergone strict clinical trials and are approved for use by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA).
What is the difference between a wrinkle relaxer and a filler?
The difference between a wrinkle relaxer and a filler is that:
A wrinkle relaxer reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles by inhibiting the muscle movement that is causing wrinkles to develop. A wrinkle relaxer can only be used to reduce muscle movement.
A filler is used to add volume and contour to the face. As we age over time, we lose volume in our face from the loss of bone volume, depletion and slowed production of collagen and elastin, as well as fat pad migration and fat loss in the face.
What can I expect during a wrinkle relaxing treatment?
During a wrinkle relaxing treatment, you can expect the following steps:
Consultation: The practitioner will discuss your goals, medical history, medications you take, examine your facial muscles, and develop a customized treatment plan.
Preparation: The treatment area will be cleansed, and in some cases, a topical anesthetic or ice may be applied to minimize discomfort.
Injection: A fine needle is used to inject small amounts of the wrinkle relaxer. You may feel a slight pinch or pressure during the wrinkle relaxer injection.
Post-Treatment Care: The practitioner will discuss with you any limitations and activities to avoid following your treatment such as avoiding exercise, hot saunas, facial massages or back massages, and avoiding rubbing the treated areas.
How long before I see the results of my wrinkle relaxer treatment?
You can expect to see your full results by the second weeks following your wrinkle relaxer treatment. You can expect to maintain your results for 3-6 months following your initial treatment.
Are there any potential side effects of wrinkle relaxers?
Yes, there are potential side effects when having a wrinkle relaxer treatment although they are generally mild and temporary.
Common side effects can include:
- Bruising
- Swelling and redness
- Pain or discomfort at the injection site
- Mild headache
- Temporary drooping of untreated muscles
- Asymmetry
It is important that you and your medical provider speak about all potential side effects and complications of any medical procedure.
Where are wrinkle relaxers injected?
Wrinkle relaxers like Botox and Dysport are most commonly injected into areas of the upper face to help reduce lines and wrinkles around the eyes (crow’s feet), the middle of the eyebrow area (“11” lines), and the forehead. More advanced treatments using wrinkle relaxer can be used in the lower face, neck, shoulders commonly known as the Barbie Botox treatment, jawline for slimming of the face, and in the scalp for migraine treatments. Your medical provider will determine if these advanced treatments are right for you.
