Neurotoxins

Botox, Dysport, Jeauveau and Xeomin are all injectable neuromodulators/neurotoxin that use a purified protein called botulinum toxin type A to temporarily relax muscles. They are FDA-approved for both cosmetic and therapeutic purposes.

Effectiveness: All four are FDA-approved and proven effective for cosmetic purposes, lasting 3-6 months.

Procedure: The injection process is similar for all.

Safety: Extensive clinical trials support their safety when administered by a qualified professional.

Protein Structure: Botox, Dysport, Letybo contain additional proteins, while Xeomin & Daxxify are protein-free. The proteins are used to help the overall stability of the neurotoxin molecule shelf life. The presence of these non-essential proteins may slightly increase the risk of the patient’s immune system developing neutralizing antibodies over time. If this happens, it can reduce the effectiveness of future treatments.

Human Serum Albumin (HSA) and Other Stabilizers: HSA is a non-toxic protein derived from human blood plasma that is added to many neurotoxin formulations (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Letybo). The neurotoxin molecule is very sensitive, especially when highly diluted. HSA prevents the active neurotoxin from adhering to the sides of the glass vial or the syringe surfaces and denaturing (losing its functional structure) in the liquid solution. Daxxify is the only neurotoxin that does not contain HSA.

Purity: The accessory proteins may slightly increase the risk of developing neutralizing antibodies over time, which could potentially reduce the product’s effectiveness, although this risk is generally very low.

Diffusion (Spread): Diffusion refers to how far the neurotoxin spreads away from the injection site after it’s been administered. This characteristic is crucial because it determines the treatment area’s size and the precision required for injection. Dysport has the highest spread with the widest diffusion, while Daxxify has the most precision & controlled spread.

Onset and Duration: Onset is the time it takes for a neurotoxin to begin visibly weakening the muscle and softening wrinkles after injection. Daxxify & Letybo typically show the first visible signs of effect the fastest (often within 1-3 days). Duration is the total time the product’s effect lasts before muscle movement begins to return and treatment is needed again. Daxxify stands out significantly, with results proven to last 4-6 months or longer, compared to the standard 3–4 months for all other brands.

Choosing the right neuromodulator is a critical step in achieving your aesthetic goals. At Vixen Wellness & Medical Spa, we offer a range of FDA-approved, professional-grade neurotoxins, including Botox, Daxxify, Dysport, Letybo, and Xeomin, each with unique characteristics. All of these injectables work by temporarily relaxing the muscle contractions that cause dynamic wrinkles (expression lines) by blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Understanding their differences is key to a personalized, optimal treatment plan.

Botox:

Brand Recognition: The original and most popular neuromodulator, making it a common household name and has a long, proven track record.

Formulation: OnabotulinumtoxinA. Contains Proteins and Human Serum Albumin (HSA) as a stabilizing excipient.
Typical Duration: 8-12 weeks

Onset: Typically 5-7 days, full effect visible in 10-14 days

Targeted Treatment: The ingredients stay isolated and have a moderate spread, less compared to Dysport.

Dysport:

Wrinkle Reduction: Dysport is known for its ability to spread more than other options, which can be an advantage when treating broad areas to achieve a softer, more widespread relaxation.

Formulation: AbobotulinumtoxinA. Contains Proteins and Human Serum Albumin (HSA) as a stabilizing excipient.
Typical Duration: 8-12 weeks

Onset: Typically 5-7 days, full effect visible in 5-7 days, may take up to 2 weeks

Cost: The price per unit is lower than Botox, but more units might be needed due to its spreadability, potentially making the total cost similar.

Xeomin:

Xeomin is frequently referred to as the “naked injectable” because it is a purified neurotoxin that removes the complexing proteins found in other brands. Ideal for those with potential protein sensitivities.

Formulation: IncobotulinumtoxinA. Reported to use human albumin and sucrose for stability. Reduced allergic reaction risk due to the lack of added proteins compared to Botox and Dysport lowers the risk of allergic reactions.

Typical Duration: 8-12 weeks

Onset: typically 3-5 days, full effect visible 10-14 days

Letybo

New Contender: Recently approved in the U.S., Letybo brings a formula with a strong international track record. It is often noted for providing smooth, natural expression lines.

Formulation: LetibotulinumtoxinA. Contains Human Serum Albumin (HSA) due to its formulation with clostridial complexing proteins.

Typical Duration: 8-12 weeks

Onset: typically 2-4 days, full effect visible in 7-14 days

Daxxify

Daxxify represents a significant advancement in neurotoxin technology. Its formulation is stabilized with a novel peptide technology.

Unique Feature: Offers the longest duration of action on the market, with results often lasting 4-6 months, or more.

Formulation: DaxibotulinumtoxinA. Does NOT contain Human Serum Albumin (HSA), utilizing a stabilizing peptide instead.
Typical Duration: 16-24 weeks, or longer

Onset: typically 1-2 days, full effect visible in 7 days, may take up to 3 weeks

Ideal For: Individuals with busy schedules who desire fewer treatment sessions per year and appreciate cutting-edge, HSA & protein-free formulation technology.

During a consultation at at Vixen Wellness & Medical Spa, a qualified medical professional can assess your needs and recommend the best injectable option for you. They will consider factors like your desired outcome, the area being treated, and your individual preferences.

Good Physical Health: Overall good health is important as neurotoxins can interact with certain medications or underlying conditions.

No Neuromuscular Diseases: People with Myasthenia Gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome should avoid them due to potential interference with nerve signals.

Not Pregnant or Breastfeeding: Safety data for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is limited.

18 Years or Older: Neurotoxins are not approved for use on individuals under 18.