First let's become a little more familiar with what Botox really is and how it works...
Botox
In 1987, Vancouver doctors Jean and Alastair Carruthers accidentally discovered cosmetic properties in a toxin normally used by ophthalmologists. Alastair divided his Vancouver dermatology practice between surgery for skin cancer and cosmetic procedures. He shared his office with Jean, an eye doctor who treated pediatric disorders as well as adult conditions such as blepharospasm. An uncontrollable blinking and spasming of the eye and surrounding area, blepharospasm was treated with a dilute solution of botulinum toxin, which, injected into the skin, temporarily paralyzes the spasming muscles.
Purified botulinum toxin A was the first bacterial toxin to be used in medicine. (YES! it's actually a toxin) There is more than one type of botulinum toxin. Different strains of the bacteria produce eight distinct neurotoxins. All eight types have a similar molecular weight and structure, consisting of a heavy chain and a light chain joined by a disulfide bond (which is very important to the folding, structure, and function of proteins.) Only types A, B, E, and F are known to cause botulism in humans.
Neurotoxins target the nervous system, disrupting the signaling processes that allow neurons to communicate effectively. The injected muscle can no longer contract, which causes the wrinkles to relax and soften. The most common areas treated with Botox are for forehead lines, crow's feet and frown lines.
Now lets stop and think for a moment.... What happens when a muscle has become paralyzed and is no longer being used? When muscle and bone tissue are not used, they will begin to shrink and waste away, known as atrophy. Atrophy, even minor, in muscle or bone can cause some loss of strength and motion.
Having a background in medical aesthetics I witnessed clients starting with one small area and then moving on to other areas due to the surrounding muscles having to compensate for the muscles that are no longer working.
Botox generally lasts about 3 to 4 months before you're due for your next treatment. It can cost anywhere from $200 to $500 per session. Many clients may experience an allergic reaction at the injection site as well as other areas depending on how sensitive the person is. These symptoms may include itching, wheezing, asthma-like symptoms, rash, welts, excessive muscle stiffness, headache, dizziness or even flu-like symptoms. Some other reactions that can occur from Botox include drooping of the eyelids, inflammation of the cornea, dry eyes, or itchy eyes, eye irritation or even an increased sensitivity to light.
Most people don't understand that there is a natural and safe alternative to injections.
Microcurrent
One popular and very effective alternative to invasive cosmetic procedures are microcurrent facials. This popular spa treatment uses a device which emits mild electrical currents to the facial area. The micro currents of electrical energy stimulate the skin’s tissues and muscles, triggering the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) which is the fuel that powers the cells. In other words Microcurrent is like going to the gym but for your facial muscles.
Microcurrent was first used in the 1980s by physicians in Europe and the US for stimulating bone repair in non-union fractures. There are numerous studies published on the effects of single channel microcurrent showing that it increases the rate of healing in wounds and fractures.
A microcurrent facial uses two prongs to deliver a tiny electric current to mimic the cell's own bioelectricity, supporting and regulating the cells biological processes. The process allows cells to deliver nutrients and get rid of waste more effectively and increase the performance of the cells.
As we age our facial muscles sag due to loss of collagen and elastin. Microcurrent re-educates the facial muscles to tighten, lift and firm. Therefore releasing the tension in our muscles in order for them to naturally relax and rejuvenate.
Microcurrent is known to erase fine lines, wrinkles while firming your skin and defining your natural features. It improves muscle tone, reduces puffiness, increases cellular activity, and tightens pores.
Because microcurrent therapy delivers specific frequencies to targeted tissues, it is an excellent treatment for a wide variety of conditions including: arthritis, back pain, diabetic, ulcers, slow healing wounds, headaches, herpes and sports injuries.
Microcurrent is a virtually painless treatment with no need for anesthesia, no recovery time or side effects. A series of 12 treatments is recommended for optimal results, but the effects are generally immediate and can be done just right before an important event or photo shoot. Treatments are generally scheduled every week or two weeks apart for lasting results. Microcurrent facials can run about $200 per session or around $100 when bought in a package. Maintenance would consist of one single treatment every 2 months to maintain results by continuing to re-educate the muscles.
In conclusion, Microcurrent is the opposite of Botox. Botox inhibits the muscle movements that cause expression lines. If a muscle is immobilized, even temporarily, it will use less energy and start to atrophy.
Aside from ANY professional skin care treatment, the skill of the practitioner must be taken into account as well as a healthy diet and a good skin care regime as they work hand in hand. Flawless skin starts from within.
Before and After
results are immediately after first treatment
I look forward to seeing you in the treatment room, where we #slay!
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