Botox boosts elastin production

Botox is a purified protein that has been used for years to reduce wrinkles associated with facial expression. One of the most common areas Botox is injected is between the brows to soften frown lines. A new study published in the journal JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery finds that botox may improve the pliability and elasticity of skin for up to 4 months.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more than 6.5 million Americans underwent botox in 2012. The procedure involves injecting the drug in certain areas of the face in order to temporarily relax the muscles that cause wrinkles.

For their study, Dr. James P. Bonaparte, of the University of Ottawa, and Dr. David Ellis, of the University of Toronto – both in Canada – set out to investigate the effects of botox on the skin.

Specifically, the researchers wanted to find out how botox affects two features of the skin that weaken as we get older: pliability (stretchiness) and elasticity (the ability to recoil).

“As one ages, these biomechanical properties change,” note the authors. “Of these age-related changes, the loss of skin elasticity appears to be the most prominent.”

Dr. Bonaparte and Dr. Ellis enrolled 48 women to the study with an average age of 55 who underwent botox injections to reduce the appearance of mild wrinkles of the forehead and around the eyes.

Among the 43 women who completed the study, the team found that the botox injections increased both the pliability and elasticity of their skin for up to 4 months – a duration similar to that of the muscle-relaxing effects of botox. After this time, the skin properties returned to baseline levels.

We have noticed an improvement in skin quality in our Botox patients. We offer advanced Botox techniques including the Nefertiti lift which helps the jawline to appear more defined. Our doctor also performs a procedure called Microtox which helps the skin to appear more lifted and tightened around the eyes and the neck. Botox can also be use to soften wrinkles around the mouth and help turn up the corners of the mouth.

Call (770) 649-0094 for more information.