The effects of Botox on acne, rosacea, and psoriasis
The applications of Botox and other neuromodulating products extend far beyond just treating and relaxing wrinkles. In fact, the initial use of Botox back in the late ‘90s to early ‘00s was to treat strabismus, or ‘crossed eyes.’ From there, ophthalmologists and other eye specialists extended its use to treating eye twitches, muscle dystonia, and complications from neuromuscular disorders.
Today, Botox (in addition to Xeomin, Dysport, etc.) are commonly known as the titans of wrinkle-relaxing. But did you know that their use can benefit other common skin disorders?
Botox & Acne
Acne can be a complex skin disorder to treat, as it ranges from being mild to cystic and inflammatory. Its causes are often multifactorial but typically stems from three major contributors: Increased sebum production, colonization of follicles with Propionibacterium acnes, and excessive keratin deposition.
Botox and other Botulinum toxin-A products can significantly improve acne by blocking acetylcholine (a key neurotransmitter released in the body) in sebocytes and inducing paralysis on the smooth muscles of follicles. Typically, 20 of Botox/Xeomin or 50 units of Dysport are hyperdiluted and injected throughout the area of concern. Effects can last up to 3 months.
Before & After - Acne and Rosacea
Improvement of acne papules and open comedones following 12 units of Xeomin in total face.
Botox & Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder characterized by facial redness, development of papules/pustules, visible blood vessels, thickening of the nose (bulbous nose), and eye redness. Botox can improve redness and flushing by blocking acetylcholine, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, and decreasing mast cell degranulation (a histamine response that causes flushing).
Before & After - Botox and Rosacea Flushing
She had been struggling with rosacea ever since she turned 30 and would get flushing episodes every time she had her morning coffee. She was treated with 12 units of hyperdiluted Xeomin in her cheeks. Both pictures are taken at the same time of day (post-morning coffee). Notice the reduction in her cheek redness and overall papules.
Botox & Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an extremely complex chronic skin condition that is caused by a multitude of factors. It can be characterized by keratinocyte hyperproliferation and immune system dysfunction. Lately, studies have posited that the concentration of nerve fibers and thus, higher levels of neuropeptides (calcitonin gene-related peptide and Substance P), are major contributors to recalcitrant psoriatic lesions. Botox is able to inhibit the release of neurotransmitters from sensory motor neurons, thus decreasing inflammation and overall appearance of these lesions.
Key Takeaways
Botox and other neuromodulating products are adjunctive treatments; meaning that a balanced and consistent skin care routine is needed for baseline treatment.
You should consult with a certified dermatologist for specific skincare products.
Research is still ongoing in this clinical application subfield. However, the data collected hitherto shows extremely promising results.
Sources
Birkett L, Dhar S, Singh P, Mosahebi A. (2022). Botulinum toxin A in the management of Acne Vulgaris: Evidence and Recommendations. Aesthetic Surgery Journal; 42(7).
Popescu M, Beiu C, Iliescu M, et al. (2022). Botulinum toxin use for modulating neuroimmune cutaneous activity in psoriasis. Medicina; 58: 813.
Zhang H, Tang K, Wang Y, Fang, R, Sun, Q. (2021). Use of Botulinum Toxin in treating Rosacea: A systematic review. Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology; 14: 407-417.
