TOXIN FACTS
Defining Botulinum Toxin The experts provide you with everything you need to know about anti-wrinkle injections There aren’t many people these days who haven’t heard of the term ‘Botox’. With botulinum toxin being the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure for men and women, there’s no wonder it’s heavily talked about. Unfortunately, many people don’t have very positive views about it. Why? Mostly because of the countless celebrities who look ridiculously frozen, completely without expression and utterly unnatural. Oh, and isn’t it toxic…? What you don’t often see, however, is the outstanding results making so many people delighted with the way they look. So how exactly does this anti-wrinkle treatment work and can it benefit you? We spoke to two expert practitioners to find out.
What is botulinum toxin? Nurse Anna explains that botulinum toxin type A (also known as toxin) is a purified protein derived from the Clostridium botulinum bacteria that blocks the nerve signals to the muscle. When it’s injected, this temporarily paralyses the muscle so it can’t contract and move the surrounding skin, meaning you get a nice smooth canvas! Toxin is commonly known as ‘Botox’, but this actually refers to a brand name, much like Hoover is colloquially used to refer to any type of vacuum cleaner! “There are other brands including Bocouture, Azzalure, Jeuveau and others from Asia that are now entering the European market,” explains Dr Samizadeh, adding, “The choice of product will be made by your medical professional after a thorough consultation.”
How was toxin discovered as a wrinkle treatment? It all started with a bad batch of German sausages; Dr Samizadeh laughs. “Poorly prepared sausages were causing botulism outbreaks, which is a very rare but life-threatening condition where the nervous system is attacked, causing muscle paralysis and death. Scientists spent years isolating the botulinum toxin protein, which eventually led to it being used 8
beyondbeauty.co.uk
Anna Baker, aesthetic nurse prescriber, Harley Street Skin London & The Retreatery, West Sussex IG: @annabakeraesthetics
Dr Souphiyeh Samizadeh, aesthetic practitioner, Revivify London Clinic, Facial Rejuvenation, London & Shanghai IG: @drsouphi
"Toxin injections using a licensed product for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes are considered safe when injected by a knowledgeable and skilled healthcare professional" Dr Souphiyeh Samizadeh
