Topical Toxin? The Effect of Botox Without the Needles

Very soon, there will be four different types of injectable botulinum neurotoxin type-A (BoNT-A).

• Botox is the industry leader.
• Dysport was FDA approved just a couple of months ago.  In my practice in Ventura, California, it has performed admirably.
• PurTox will probably be on the market within a year or two.
• Xeomin is also in the pipeline.

All of these products contain the muscle relaxant that soften facial wrinkles.  And all work after they are injected with needles.

While almost all of my patients have loved Botox and Dysport, a significant minority hates the needles.  For these needle-phobic folks, it would be ideal to have a topical cream which can produce the effects of an injectable muscle relaxant.

Enter Topical Toxin.

Preliminary studies have demonstrated that this topical, noninjectable form of botulinum toxin can effectively treat crow's feet.  The outer eyebrows can be raised, as well.

Irritation has been minimal.  There have been no inadvertant paralyses of adjacent muscles.

Also, the injectable BoNT-As have been useful in treating excessive sweating, especially in the armpits, palms, and feet.  Topical Toxin has shown promise for the reduction of sweating at these locations too.

It remains to be seen whether Topical Toxin will supplant Botox as the king of cosmetic muscle relaxants.  Certainly, Topical Toxin will be a great option as part of a comprehensive rejuvenation package.