I think we can all agree life is stressful, even as we age, new things come at us sometimes like a ton of bricks. Let’s all roll our eyes and nod our head in agreement with that most common statement of all time. And the fine line and wrinkles? As if the stresses of everyday life aren’t enough, the effects of ageing shine bright right where people notice it the most, on your beautiful face.
It is thought that the primary aetiology causing those bothersome fine lines and wrinkles, particularly frown lines and the lines around the eyes - that we all dread - is excessive muscular contraction. Enter botulinum toxin type A – a purified substance derived from bacteria. It remains the leading nonsurgical cosmetic procedure worldwide and targets the physical effects of aging by temporarily reducing and preventing muscle contraction.
Fine lines and winkles can do a lot which we sometimes brush off as, “no big deal” – or tell our friends during wine o’clock that “I worked hard for these lines”. But, it has been shown that facial lines can negatively impact self-esteem, the perception of attractiveness, social interactions and body image. By helping us to achieve a younger looking face, this particular injectable decreases the physical, psychological and social effects of facial aging.
There are a few formulations of Botulinum Toxin A in use, including Botox and Dysport. But what is the difference between these two formulas?
Firstly, they can both be used to reduce and soften lines and wrinkles such as crow’s feet, frown lines, forehead furrows, lip lines and bunny lines; as well as correct a gummy smile, improve the appearance of skin dimpling of the chin, elevate the corners of the mouth, soften a square jaw and address smokers lines and neck bands.
Studies have shown both formulas to be an effective therapy providing an improvement in facial lines. The median duration of effect of both treatments has been indicated as 3-4 months and there have been no reported long-term adverse events or safety issues of either Botox or Dysport.
Some studies indicate no statistical significant difference between the two products while other studies reviewed showed a greater improvement, earlier onset and longer duration of improvement in a higher percentage of individuals in Dysport.
Overall Botulinum Toxin Type A as a cosmetic treatment for fine lines and wrinkles has been shown to have a high rate of efficacy and patient satisfaction.
A single-blind, split-face, randomized, pilot study comparing the effects of intradermal and intramuscular injection of two commercially available botulinum toxin A formulas to reduce signs of facial aging. JCAD 1 February, 2017. Priya Sapra, MD, et al.
Global Aesthetics Consensus: Botulinum Toxin Type A—Evidence-Based Review, Emerging Concepts, and Consensus Recommendations for Aesthetic Use, Including Updates on Complications. Plastic Reconstructive Surgery 2016 Mar; 137(3): 518-529. Hema Sundaram, MD, et al.
