For the first time in almost a decade, Jeuveau, a new, FDA-approved Botox-alternative, is joining the lineup of injectable neurotoxins including Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin.
“The addition of Jeuveau to the market is exciting,” exclaims Dr. Melissa Doft, board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Doft Plastic Surgery. “It offers physicians another option in their armamentarium as different toxins work better for different patients.”
Initial findings show that Jeuveau potentially outperforms the others in terms of longevity (approximately four to six months) and in the treatment of the glabella (aka frown lines). But don’t get too excited just yet. Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, celebrity cosmetic dermatologist and founder of PFRANKMD™ & Skin Salon, points out, “The new drug’s subtleties have yet to be determined in clinical practice.” Basically, there hasn’t been enough clinical research to make any concrete conclusions.
While we wait for expert reviews, here’s everything we know so far about the new anti-aging injectable.
What is it?
Jeuveau works just like the other injectable neurotoxins – it relaxes facial muscles via a paralytic effect. “Jeuveau is a botulism toxin type A, a new wrinkle-relaxing injectable that’s very similar to [the] other neuromodulators in action and onset. It can be used in any area that Botox is used, both cosmetic and medical,” explains Frank.
How is it different from other injectables?
Subtle variations like the strain of toxin used or the presence of proteins in the drug’s formula explain why one drug might be more beneficial to a specific patient. “Botox and Xeomin use the same strain of botulinum toxin, while Dysport and Jeuveau are different strains of botulinum toxin,” says Doft.
Should you try it?
The beauty of injectable neurotoxins is their ability to be used both preventatively and therapeutically, according to your skin’s needs. If you’re wondering when to start, Doft advises, “I suggest starting not for preventative reasons, but once you start to see lines at rest.” She explains that maintenance will vary, but as a general rule of thumb, preventative regimens call for touchups every six months; deeper wrinkles call for more frequent appointments at three to four-month intervals.
xx, The FabFitFun Team
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