Xeomin is a neurotoxin injectable that has gained a reputation as an effective anti-wrinkle solution. This non-surgical cosmetic treatment yields fast results that can be easily maintained with regular follow-up visits. Xeomin injections can also treat a variety of health conditions.
This article explains Xeomin’s common uses and benefits and provides information about the outcome, aftercare, and cost.
What Is Xeomin?
Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA) is a popular Botox alternative that treats moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines). It contains botulinum toxin type A, a substance that temporarily blocks nerve receptors in the injected muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Xeomin® has created a unique, double-filtered smart toxin formula through its proprietary XTRACT technology™. Also known as “naked Botox”, Xeomin contains only the active ingredient, botulinum toxin type A, without the added proteins found in other formulations. Because of this stripped-down formula, Xeomin is less likely to cause the development of antibodies, which can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
Note: Find out how Xeomin compares to Botox and learn key differences between Xeomin and Dysport.
What Is Xeomin Used For?
Xeomin injectables are FDA-approved for the following areas and conditions:
- Glabellar lines, or frown lines (vertical lines between eyebrows) in adult patients
- Chronic sialorrhea (excessive drooling) for patients aged two years and older
- Blepharospasm (involuntary blinking) in adults
- Cervical dystonia (spasmodic torticollis) in adults
- Upper limb spasticity (muscle stiffness) in patients aged two years or older
A certified Xeomin provider will determine the suitability of this neuromodulator for your specific health issue or beauty goal.
Medical practitioners also use Xeomin in off-label procedures to treat:
- Crow’s feet, or laugh lines (wrinkles at the outer corners of the eyes)
- Forehead lines (horizontal lines across the forehead)
- Smoker’s lines (upper lip lines and wrinkles)
- Chronic migraines
- Excessive sweating (e.g., underarms, palms, and soles of the feet)
Note: Learn how Botox for frown lines works.
The Benefits of Xeomin Treatment
This neurotoxin injectable provides numerous cosmetic and health benefits, such as the following:
- Minimal invasiveness – This non-surgical procedure delivers results with minimal discomfort and a quick recovery.
- Natural-looking outcome – A qualified provider can help you achieve a smoother, wrinkle-free appearance without losing your natural facial expressions.
- Versatility – This muscle relaxant reduces the appearance of glabellar lines and other dynamic wrinkles formed through repetitive movements.
- A quick, walk-in procedure – The treatment lasts ten to twenty minutes and requires no anesthesia apart from a topically applied anesthetic.
- Fast results – You can expect first results within three to four days after the treatment.
- Durability – It typically lasts up to three months, but you can increase its lifespan with regular maintenance sessions and proper aftercare.
- Lower risk of developing intolerance – Other neurotoxins contain complexing proteins that may provoke conditions such as Botox resistance, an immune response that neutralizes injection’s active molecules. Xeomin reduces this risk by providing a purified, “naked” formula.
- High safety profile – Xeomin has fewer reported allergic reactions than Botox, and most side effects are mild and temporary.
- Compatible with other treatments – Depending on the desired effect, a dermatologist may complement this neurotoxin with other skin-rejuvenating treatments such as laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, microneedling, CoolSculpting, or dermal fillers.
- Added medical benefits – It is widely used for non-cosmetic purposes to treat conditions such as excessive drooling, involuntary blinking, and cervical dystonia.
What Can You Expect During Xeomin Treatment?
The provider may ask you to make a series of facial expressions to test how your skin creases and folds. Next, they will sterilize the treatment area, mark the injection sites, and apply a topical numbing cream to reduce discomfort. Then they will insert a fine needle into the target muscles. You may feel a slight pinch or sting during the procedure. Apart from the topical anesthetic or a cold pack, no anesthesia is required.
The procedure is straightforward and typically lasts ten to twenty minutes, depending on the number of injection sites and the desired effect. After the treatment, you can immediately resume your daily activities.
The number of units varies depending on the goal and the condition. The recommended dose for glabellar lines is 20 units per session divided into five intramuscular injections, while dosing for cosmetic and medical purposes varies from 20 to 400 units per treatment.
Xeomin Treatment Results
You may see the first results as early as three to four days after the treatment. The maximum effect is typically visible within the first thirty days.
How Long Do Xeomin Injections Last
Clinical trials show that in most patients Xeomin injections have a lifespan of three months. However, the effects may last longer or shorter depending on individual factors (e.g., metabolic rate, age, lifestyle, etc.). Once the effects wear off, you can schedule a follow-up session to maintain the look.
Xeomin Treatment Aftercare
After the treatment, the doctor will provide aftercare guidelines to ensure safe recovery and optimal results.
Follow these aftercare tips to minimize side effects and maximize the outcome.
- Avoid taking blood thinners such as aspirin or ibuprofen to prevent bruising and swelling.
- Refrain from touching, rubbing, or applying pressure to the treated area.
- Avoid strenuous physical activities such as exercising for twenty-four hours.
- Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages for twenty-four hours.
- Avoid herbal supplements such as Ginkgo, green tea, and anti-inflammatories for two weeks before and after the injection.
- Refrain from consuming nicotine to avoid blood clotting and bruising.
- Apply ice packs or cold compresses to alleviate swelling or redness.
- Drink plenty of water to stay well hydrated after the treatment.
- Don’t bend or lie down for at least four hours after the treatment.
- Stay away from direct sun and heat for several days.
- Avoid applying makeup for at least twelve hours.
- Avoid abrupt facial movements to allow the toxin to settle for one hour after the treatment.
- Do not schedule other cosmetic treatments (e.g., dermal fillers or laser therapy) for two weeks.
How Long Should You Stay Upright After Xeomin?
Remain in an upright position for five to six hours after the treatment. Lying down or bending increases the risk of undesired effects, such as filler migration, drooping eyelids, bruising, swelling, and uneven features.
Experts recommend performing gentle facial movements to help Xeomin work into the muscles.
Note: Learn how long after Botox you can lie down and why you should avoid bending after Botox.
Xeomin Side Effects
Most side effects are short-lived and mild. They typically subside on their own after a few days and may include the following:
- Headache
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Redness
Severe or prolonged side effects are rare, and include the following:
- Allergic reactions (e.g., itchiness, rash)
- Wheezing or asthma symptoms
- Dizziness or faintness
- Infection
- Fever
- Swallowing difficulties (i.e., dysphagia)
- Breathing problems
- Muscle weakness or atrophy
- Decreased coordination
- Uneven features (e.g., drooping eyelids)
- Blurred vision
Antibiotics may be necessary if you develop an infection. Seek immediate medical attention to avoid further complications and speed up recovery.
Who Should Not Use Xeomin?
While Xeomin is safe for most healthy adults, some individuals should avoid it. Stay away from this treatment if any of the following applies to you:
- You have been allergic to other neurotoxins such as Botox or Dysport.
- You have an active skin infection or inflammation at the planned injection site.
- You are hypersensitive to other inactive ingredients (human albumin, sucrose).
Consult your Xeomin provider if you are still unsure about your suitability for this type of treatment.
How Much Does Xeomin Cost Per Unit?
The cost varies depending on the medical spa’s location and expertise, treatment size, and the number of units.
The average price of Xeomin is $8-18 per unit. At Vibrant Skin Bar, you can purchase it for $12.5 per unit, with a total cost of a treatment ranging from $250 to $750, depending on the number of units required.
Is Xeomin Covered by Insurance?
In the USA, medical insurance does not cover expenses for Xeomin anti-wrinkle treatments. However, some insurance plans cover the cost of Xeomin for medical conditions.
Contact your health insurance provider to get more information about potential coverage.
Conclusion
Xeomin is an effective anti-aging treatment that provides natural, long-lasting results. It is a popular alternative to other neuromodulators with numerous advantages resulting from its advanced formula. Its versatility and additional non-cosmetic applications have made it an invaluable addition to the neurotoxin family of injections.
Contact our friendly staff at Vibrant Skin Bar to learn more about Xeomin.
