Xeomin
Xeomin® (incobotulinumtoxinA) is a purified injectable neuromodulator used to temporarily relax facial muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles—creases that form from repetitive facial movements like frowning, squinting, and raising the eyebrows. Like other botulinum toxin type A products, Xeomin is FDA-approved for aesthetic use and has become a trusted treatment in cosmetic dermatology for reducing the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines, commonly known as frown lines between the eyebrows.
Xeomin is most commonly used to treat:
- Frown lines (glabellar lines) between the eyebrows
- Forehead lines
- Crow’s feet (wrinkles at the outer corners of the eyes)
These types of wrinkles are referred to as dynamic wrinkles. They appear as a result of repeated muscle movement over time and tend to deepen with age as skin loses collagen and elasticity. Xeomin helps soften these lines by targeting the underlying muscle activity, allowing the overlying skin to appear smoother and more relaxed.
In addition to FDA-approved uses, Dr. Neely also uses Xeomin off-label to address other areas of facial concern, such as:
- Bunny lines (lines on the sides of the nose)
- Lip lines
- Chin dimpling
- Neck bands (platysmal bands)
Dr. Neely is a highly skilled and experienced injector with a deep understanding of facial anatomy and precise neuromodulator dosing. Her expertise ensures safe, natural-looking nonsurgical facial rejuvenation.
Xeomin contains botulinum toxin type A, a naturally occurring protein that temporarily blocks the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contraction. When injected into specific facial muscles, Xeomin disrupts the signal between the nerve and the muscle, causing the muscle to relax. This reduction in muscle activity smooths the overlying skin and reduces the appearance of expression lines.
What makes Xeomin unique is its formulation. Unlike some other botulinum toxin products, Xeomin is free of accessory proteins. This “naked” formulation contains only the active neurotoxin, which helps to reduce the risk of patients developing neutralizing antibodies over time, a rare but possible event that can diminish the effectiveness of treatment. This purity makes Xeomin an appealing choice for patients who may have used other neuromodulators in the past or are concerned about long-term efficacy.
Patients often choose Xeomin for a variety of reasons:
- Natural-looking results: Xeomin relaxes targeted muscles without affecting your ability to show facial expressions. The goal is not to “freeze” your face, but to soften lines and create a refreshed appearance.
- Quick treatment with no downtime: A Xeomin treatment session typically takes 10 to 20 minutes. Most patients return to their normal activities right after the procedure.
- Purity of ingredients: The absence of complexing proteins may make Xeomin a good choice for patients who want a more purified neuromodulator.
- Onset and duration: Results usually begin to appear within 3 to 5 days after treatment, with full effects visible in about 7 to 10 days. The smoothing effect typically lasts 3 to 4 months, depending on the treatment area, dosage, and individual muscle activity.
- Versatility: With Dr. Neely, Xeomin can be used not only to treat wrinkles but also for facial sculpting purposes, such as lifting the eyebrows, softening a square jawline, or reducing a gummy smile.
Patients who have previously used Botox® or Dysport® may find Xeomin to be a suitable alternative, particularly if they are interested in trying a preservative-free formulation. Some patients switch to Xeomin if they find their results diminishing with other brands or if they are exploring different aesthetic approaches.
Xeomin is a safe, effective, and refined option for those seeking a non-surgical solution to dynamic facial wrinkles. With its purified formulation and consistent performance, it continues to be a trusted tool in aesthetic medicine. As with all cosmetic treatments, results are best when Xeomin is administered by an experienced provider who can tailor the treatment to your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.
At a Glance
Dr. Neely Khan
- Board-certified Dermatologist
- Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology
- Washingtonian and Castle Connolly Top Doctor
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