Once injected, the neurotoxin interferes with the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for transmitting signals between nerve cells and muscles. Acetylcholine is essential for muscle contractions. By inhibiting the release of acetylcholine, the muscle does not receive the signal that prompts contraction. As a result, the targeted muscle becomes temporarily relaxed. The reduced muscle activity leads to a smoothing effect on the overlying skin, diminishing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It can also be used to relax the jaw muscles to relieve TMJ dysfunction and relax sweat glands to treat excessive sweating.

Patients with dynamic wrinkles from repetitive muscle movements who are in good health and not pregnant or breastfeeding. Patients with wrinkles from sun exposure or smoking will not likely see results from neurotoxins. Patients who experience migraines, TMJ discomfort, and hyperhidrosis are also good candidates. An ideal candidate understands the limitations of neurotoxins and has realistic expectations regarding the results.

Often multiple areas can be treated at once and results can last three to six months. Maintenance treatments will be required once the effects wear off. Everyone metabolizes the neurotoxin at different speeds so individual treatment plans will differ. Unlike Dermal Fillers, which show immediate results, Neurotoxin injections can take up to 2 weeks for full effects.