Botox For Rosacea
Rosacea is a common skin disorder that presents with flushing and redness of the face. There are a bunch of variations to this condition. Some people experience tiny pustular bumps, or enlarged blood vessels, or even dry and irritated eyes. There are a variety of treatments for this like topical creams, lasers, skin care and systemic medications. Why rosacea happens is not fully understood. Proposed mechanisms include immune system dysfunction, inflammation from microbes, genetics, UV exposure, and vascular dysfunction (1). When I see this clinically, I recommend establishing with a dermatologist to go through the diagnostic workup and see which first-line treatments are best for you. For those who have failed treatments or are looking for added support, injections with neurotoxins like Botox and Dysport, have proven to reduce facial redness and inflammation (2). This week we learn about the role of Botox for those suffering with Rosacea.
Most of us know botox to address fine lines and wrinkles. Typically I will inject botox into a muscle, weakening its contraction and softening associated lines and wrinkles. When treating rosacea, botox is injected very superficially into the skin and in one or two treatments, facial redness improves for about three to six months (3). Dosing is roughly 15 to 50 units over two treatments however this is variable based on the severity of redness present (4). The most common side effects mentioned in the studies are some pain with injection (I like to use a topical numbing cream for this), and rare cases of headache. It is speculated that botox injections work by inhibiting normal vascular function via blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (5).
Common questions asked regarding Botox for Rosacea
Is the procedure painful? The treatment is often described as little mosquito bites. A topical anesthetic is applied for your comfort.
When will I see results? Results happen about 2 weeks after the procedure.
What is the downtime? It is normal to experience some redness and mosquito-like bumps at the injection sites for up to 12 hours. Small bruising can occur which typically resolves in a few days. You can apply mineral makeup 24 hours post procedure.
How many treatments will I need? Typically one to two treatments are required with results lasting about four months.
How much does it cost? Cost is dependent on severity of area being treated and is very individualized. My pricing is competitive and I offer a consultation which is free of charge.
What can go wrong? Misplacement of the botox can lead to temporary but unwanted weakening of facial muscles. Dr. Heather is very experienced with this technique and has taken multiple courses for this application of neurotoxin including: Advanced Neuromodulator with MicroTox®️ NasalTox® with Leslie Fletcher and Progressive Aesthetic Learning Essential to Technical Expertise (PALETTE) Specialty Focus - Micro Toxin.
If you experience rosacea and continued redness and flushing of the face despite other treatments, botox injections are worth a consideration. This treatment has been used for over ten years and has proven safe and effective for the persistent symptoms associated with rosacea. Schedule a complimentary consultation or ask me about this at your next treatment.
Thanks for reading,
Heather
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7680644/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8096341/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5434494/