The Science Behind Neurotoxins: How They Work and What to Expect

Neurotoxins have become a foundational part of modern aesthetic medicine. They are the first treatment many patients turn to when lines start to appear around the eyes or forehead. Subtle yet effective, neuromodulators can help to smooth dynamic wrinkles and refresh your overall look without detracting from your unique expressions.

At Aesthetica, we often hear patients ask how these treatments work beneath the surface and what they can expect from their first appointment. We are here to demystify the process and set clear expectations for results and maintenance.

What Are Neurotoxins?

Neurotoxins, also known as neuromodulators, are purified proteins derived from a bacterium found in soil and certain plants called Clostridium botulinum. In medical aesthetics, this protein is carefully refined and processed in laboratory settings to create a measured dose suitable for cosmetic use. 

When injected into the targeted facial muscles, neurotoxins temporarily block the nerve signals that create muscle contractions. This gentle relaxation of the muscles helps soften the appearance of expression lines.

How Do Neurotoxins Work? 

How Nerve Signals Create Movement in the Body

Every facial expression begins with a message from your nervous system. When you smile or frown, your brain sends an electrical signal through nerves to release a chemical messenger called acetylcholine. This messenger binds to receptors on the surface of muscle fibers and prompts them to contract. When contractions are repeated over the years, they create visible lines and wrinkles, especially in expressive areas like the forehead and around the eyes.

What Happens When a Neurotoxin Is Injected

Once a neurotoxin is injected into a specific facial muscle, it temporarily blocks the release of acetylcholine. Without this chemical signal, the treated muscle can no longer contract as strongly or as often. This relaxation allows the skin above the muscle to smooth out naturally, reducing the appearance of lines caused by repetitive movement. The effect develops gradually over several days as communication between the nerve and muscle pauses. Eventually, the body metabolizes the neurotoxin, and nerve activity slowly returns to normal.

Will Neurotoxins Make Me Look Frozen?

The “frozen” look can happen when the injector is too heavy-handed with the product. With experienced injectors like our providers at Aesthetica, neurotoxin treatments can be customized to your desired level of movement and expression. Some patients prefer a fully relaxed look with less expression, while others want a subtle softening that keeps natural movement and expressions intact. Because dosing and placement are highly individualized, you can decide how much movement you want to retain.

Neuromodulators for Cosmetic Use

A neurotoxin treatment can address many of the facial lines that form from repeated expressions and muscle movement. These include frown lines between the eyebrows, horizontal forehead lines, crow’s feet near the eyes, platysma bands, and small creases around the nose or mouth. Neuromodulators help smooth existing wrinkles and prevent new ones from becoming more pronounced. These injectables can also be used off-label to lift the brows, treat dimples on the chin, and treat a gummy smile.

Other Benefits and Applications of Neurotoxins

Neurotoxins also have several therapeutic applications that can improve comfort and function. They can be used to reduce excessive underarm sweating, calm tight jaw muscles in patients with TMJ discomfort, and even lessen the frequency of chronic migraines. In each case, neurotoxins work by blocking overactive nerve signals that trigger unwanted muscle or gland activity.

What to Expect From Your First Neuromodulator Treatment

Consultation

Neurotoxin injections begin with a brief consultation where you will discuss your goals, and your provider will evaluate the movement of your facial muscles. This evaluation can often take place during the same appointment as your injections. We use this assessment to determine the right placement and dosage for each area to keep results as natural as possible. 

Neuromodulator Treatment Process

The injection process itself is quick and uses a fine needle for precise delivery with minimal discomfort. You may notice a slight pinch, but this can often be reduced using topical numbing creams. 

Post-Treatment

Afterward, you may notice small bumps or redness at the injection sites, which usually fade quickly after the treatment. There is no downtime with injections, although we recommend avoiding intense exercise or rubbing the treated areas for the rest of the day.

Neuromodulator Results

You will start to see some results within three to five days, with full smoothing effects visible in about two weeks.

Learn More About Neurotoxins in St. Louis, MO

At Aesthetica, injectable neurotoxins are performed under the guidance of Brock D. Ridenour, MD, FACS, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience in facial aesthetics. 

To learn more or schedule a consultation, call 314-501-7946 or contact us through our website.