This story is part of the August 11 edition of Sunday Life. See all 13 stories . Let’s have a quick chemistry lesson.
Botox, Dysport and Xeomin are all neuromodulators (neurotoxins) that inhibit a neurotransmitter that relays nerve signals to muscles. Injecting them with Botox and the like results in a temporary paralysis which stops them contracting and forming wrinkles. As it gradually wears off, the muscles return to normal.
Dr Ramtin Kassir: “I’ve done hundreds of thousands of Botox injections and Botox resistance is extremely rare. I’ve maybe seen it one or two times in the last almost 30 years.” Credit: Getty Images The effectiveness in wrinkle-reduction lies in where the neuromodulator is placed and how much of it is used so you need a highly skilled practitioner to get the dosing and placement just right.
The effects of neuromodulators start between two and seven days post-injection and typically last three to four months. Loading Botox-resistance can occur when a patient either doesn’t respond to the injections or gets less than their three to four months longevity. According to Sydney cosmetic physician Dr Joseph Hkeik, “Botox resistance is extremely rare but can happen when the body develops neutralising antibodies.
” These antibodies can develop over time in response to the botulism toxin or the supporting proteins in the formulas. New York based Dr Ramtin Kassir says, “In my practice, I’ve done hundreds of thousands of Botox injections and Boto.