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BOTOX® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) Receives FDA Approval for Moderate to Severe Vertical Bands Connecting the Jaw and Neck (Platysma Bands)

The Only Product of Its Kind Approved for Use in Four Aesthetic Indications: Temporary Improvement in the Appearance of Moderate to Severe Forehead Lines, Frown Lines, Crow’s Feet Lines, and Now Platysma Bands in Adults1-5 With this Approval, BOTOX® Cosmetic is the First and Only Aesthetic Neurotoxin Product to Temporarily Improve the Appearance of Moderate to Severe Vertical Bands Connecting the Jaw and Neck (Platysma Bands) in Adults1-5 IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company (NYSE: ABBV), announced the U.S. FDA approval of BOTOX® Cosmetic for temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe vertical bands connecting the jaw and neck (platysma bands) in adults.1 BOTOX® Cosmetic is the first and only product with four aesthetic indication areas: forehead lines, frown lines, crow’s feet lines, and now platysma bands, making it the first product of its kind to go beyond the face.1-5 “Research shows millions of consumers in the U.S. are extremely or very bothered by their platysma bands.6* Until now, treatment options have been limited and with this approval, there is a nonsurgical, injectable option to temporarily improve the look of vertical bands connecting the jaw and neck,” said Darin J. Messina, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Aesthetics R&D at Allergan Aesthetics. “This fourth indication for BOTOX® Cosmetic represents true innovation. We’re excited to open new doors for patients and providers, helping them to achieve their aesthetic goals.” The platysma muscle is a thin muscle that covers the neck and extends over the lower face. When this muscle is contracted it can cause the appearance of bands on the neck, which can also create a less defined jawline. Treatment with BOTOX® Cosmetic works beneath the surface to temporarily reduce the underlying muscle activity and improves the appearance of the bands connecting the neck and jaw.1 By injecting along the jawline and the vertical bands connecting the jaw and neck with one of the FDA-approved doses of BOTOX® Cosmetic based on severity—26, 31, or 36 units—BOTOX® Cosmetic temporarily reduces underlying muscle activity.1 Patients are encouraged to speak to their licensed aesthetic specialist to determine if treatment is right for them. “In my practice, the neck and lower face are always a standard part of my comprehensive aesthetic consultation. Many of my patients are often surprised by the significant impact that changes in these areas can have,” said Dr. Terrence Keaney, board-certified dermatologist and pivotal clinical trial investigator. “With the approval of BOTOX® Cosmetic for the treatment of platysma bands, including precise injection patterns and dosing, I can now confidently offer my patients a treatment option that can help deliver the results they are looking to achieve.” In Phase III clinical studies, the primary endpoint was met, demonstrating statistical significance for the improvement in appearance of platysma bands from baseline with BOTOX® Cosmetic versus placebo (p<0.0001).† This measure was based on both investigator and subject assessment. All secondary endpoints were met, as measured by multiple validated, proprietary patient-reported outcome (PRO) instruments.1 For example, in two clinical studies, a majority of patients (65% and 62%) reported being “Very Satisfied” or “Satisfied” (top two out of five responses) with the appearance of their neck and jawline definition 14 days after treatment with a dose of 26, 31, or 36 units of BOTOX® Cosmetic, compared to 12% in both studies with placebo. Patients interested in learning more about BOTOX® Cosmetic for platysma bands are encouraged to enroll in Allē, the Allergan Aesthetics loyalty rewards program. In serving more than seven million Members across ~30,000 practices to date, part of Allē’s mission is to help educate consumers about aesthetic treatments and to simplify office operations for practices. From its inception, Allē has disrupted the aesthetics industry by offering the most robust rewards program. Allē is the first and only loyalty program in the aesthetics market to also offer consumers the ability to earn points on over 50 non-Allergan Aesthetics treatments and brands. By providing Members with information, tools, and incentives, and now with flexible ways to pay through Allē Payment Plans powered by Cherry‡, Allē empowers consumers along their treatment journey, making the next product purchase or treatment closer within reach. To learn more about BOTOX® Cosmetic, visit www.botoxcosmetic.com and follow @botoxcosmetic on social media. *Nine million based on 2021 U.S. Census Projections: calculated from 2021 total population projections from a survey of 15,295 participants of which 3.8% indicated they were “Very” or “Extremely Bothered” (top two out of five responses) by their platysma bands.6 †Primary endpoint was a multi-component ≥ 2-grade improvement based on both Investigator and Subject assessments of Platysma Band Severity at maximum contraction at day 14: 32% (n=63) vs 2% placebo (n=4) in Study 1; 31% (n=64) vs 0% placebo (n=0) in Study 2.1 BOTOX® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) Important Information Indications BOTOX® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) is indicated in adult patients for the temporary improvement in the appearance of: – Moderate to severe glabellar lines associated with corrugator and/or procerus muscle activity- Moderate to severe lateral canthal lines associated with orbicularis oculi activity- Moderate to severe forehead lines associated with frontalis activity- Moderate to severe platysma bands associated with platysma muscle activity IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION, INCLUDING BOXED WARNING WARNING: DISTANT SPREAD OF TOXIN EFFECT Postmarketing reports indicate that the effects of BOTOX® Cosmetic and all botulinum toxin products may spread from the area of injection to produce symptoms consistent with botulinum toxin effects. These may include asthenia, generalized muscle weakness, diplopia, ptosis, dysphagia, dysphonia, dysarthria, urinary incontinence, and breathing difficulties. These symptoms have been reported hours to weeks after injection. Swallowing and breathing difficulties can be life threatening and there have been reports of death. The risk of symptoms is probably greatest in children treated for spasticity, but symptoms can also occur in adults treated for spasticity and other conditions, particularly in those patients who have an underlying condition that would predispose them to these symptoms. In unapproved uses and approved indications, cases of spread of effect have been reported at doses comparable to those used to

Empowering Women’s Health: The Advantages of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is gaining popularity as a natural and effective solution to address hormonal imbalances in women. As women age, hormonal fluctuations can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms and impact overall well-being. In this post, we explore the numerous benefits of BHRT and how it can empower women to reclaim their vitality and quality of life. Natural and Safe BHRT uses hormones derived from natural plant sources that are structurally identical to the hormones produced by the human body. This natural approach ensures that the hormones used in therapy are well-tolerated and less likely to cause adverse reactions, providing women with a safe and gentle treatment option. Personalized Treatment One of the key advantages of BHRT is its customized approach. Each woman’s hormonal profile is unique, and BHRT tailors treatment to address individual needs. Through comprehensive testing, healthcare providers can determine the precise hormone levels required for optimal balance, leading to more effective results. Menopause Symptom Relief Menopause can bring on a range of bothersome symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. BHRT can help alleviate these symptoms by replenishing declining hormone levels, providing relief and improved quality of life during this transitional phase. Bone Health Support Hormonal imbalances, particularly a decline in estrogen levels, can lead to a loss of bone density and increase the risk of osteoporosis in women. BHRT helps maintain bone health by restoring hormonal balance, reducing the likelihood of fractures and promoting overall skeletal well-being. Enhanced Mood and Emotional Well-being Fluctuating hormones can take a toll on a woman’s emotional health, leading to mood swings, anxiety, and irritability. BHRT can stabilize hormonal levels, resulting in improved mood and emotional stability, helping women feel more balanced and in control. Cognitive Function Improvement Hormonal imbalances may impact cognitive function, leading to issues with memory and concentration. BHRT can support brain health by restoring hormonal equilibrium, potentially enhancing cognitive abilities and mental clarity. Revitalized Libido and Sexual Health A decline in hormone levels can adversely affect a woman’s libido and sexual function. BHRT can reinvigorate sexual desire, improve lubrication, and enhance overall sexual satisfaction, promoting a fulfilling and intimate experience. Increased Energy and Vitality Fatigue and reduced energy levels are common complaints associated with hormonal imbalances. BHRT can combat these symptoms by optimizing hormonal levels, resulting in increased energy and enhanced vitality for women. Cardiovascular Health Support Estrogen, a vital hormone for women, plays a significant role in cardiovascular health. BHRT can help manage cholesterol levels, support healthy blood vessels, and reduce the risk of heart disease, promoting overall cardiovascular well-being. Anti-Aging Effects By restoring hormonal balance, BHRT can have anti-aging benefits, including improved skin health, increased muscle mass, and reduced body fat. These effects can contribute to a more youthful and vibrant appearance, helping women embrace aging with confidence. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy offers women a natural and personalized approach to address hormonal imbalances and improve overall well-being. With its diverse range of benefits, including relief from menopause symptoms, enhanced emotional stability, improved bone and cardiovascular health, and revitalized sexual function, BHRT empowers women to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. Always consult with a Restorative Health hormone expert determine if BHRT is suitable for your specific needs and health goals, and take the first step towards reclaiming your vitality today.

Lip Flip vs. Lip Fillers

We’d like to do a comparison between the two minimal invasive treatments, what is your preference between lip flip and lip filler? Lip Flip A lip flip with Botox involves injecting small amounts of Botox into the muscles surrounding the upper lip. The Botox helps relax the muscles, causing a slight upward movement of the lip border. This procedure will make your lips look fuller without adding additional volume as the result of subtle enhancement that will last around two to three months. The lip appearance can create the illusions of fuller lips by slightly flipping the upper lip outward, exposing more of the appearance of the pink lip effect. Lip flip primarily targets the upper lip to enhance its shape, volume and definition. It is highly recommended that regular maintenance treatments will help sustain effects. It’s a quick, minimally invasive procedure that can be done in just a few minutes and may be difficult to drink out of a straw for a few days at the onset of treatment. This is an excellent treatment if you’d like to show less of your gum. Lip Filler Lip filler injections involve the use of dermal fillers, typically made of hyaluronic acid to add volume, shape and definition to the lips. This procedure can provide more noticeable and immediate results, adding volume, plumpness and contour to the lips. Areas of treatment result in both the upper and lower lips, allowing comprehensive enhancement and symmetry correction. It will give you more long-lasting results than a lip flip and a more dramatic transformation. The results of lip filler injections are immediate and can last from 6 months to a year, depending on the specific type of filler used. The procedure is minimally invasive and has 24 hours of social downtime, the recovery includes no exercise or any heavy activity for 24 hours.

Understanding the Difference: Botox vs. Fillers

What is the difference between Botox and Fillers, we will give you a comparison amongst the two treatments. Botox Botox temporarily relaxes muscle movement by releasing acetylcholine, which is an organic chemical and neurotransmitter that helps with smoothing fine lines or contracting certain areas of the muscle. It is a preventative treatment against glabella lines, crow’s feet and forehead lines. With the purified protein injected, it will address existing static and dynamic fine lines and wrinkles. This treatment lasts for about three to four months and takes two to five days to onset, two weeks for a full effect. The additional benefit of doing Botox is to help with depression, headaches, facial slimming, muscle spasm, TMJ, and hyperhidrosis. It’s a treatment that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), your dermatologist would recommend what brand of Botox that is best based on your anatomy and what your goals are. Fillers Fillers are mostly made of hyaluronic acid gel to restore age related volume loss and enhance facial contour. It essentially helps plump the face and fill out any lines to improve the appearance of sagging in the skin and show tightness. This treatment takes two to four weeks to completely settle in, the duration of it depends on what filler is used from 12-24 months. Side effects include mild swelling and bruising that may occur. Additional benefits to this treatment help improve fine lines, texture and appearance of your skin. The difference between Botox and fillers is recommended based on the location you’d like to target. The main difference would be that Botox is best for addressing dynamic lines on the face. Fillers are best for addressing volume loss and folds on the face.

Discover the Top 5 Reasons to Choose C2 Aesthetics Med Spa for Your Beauty Needs

C2 Aesthetics Med Spa offer a wide range of services with a trustworthy team, not only that, here are a few tips to make the process easier for you. C2 Aesthetics Med Spa and their providers can guarantee great service and results! Listed below are what our experts believe to make this journey for you easier and less daunting to begin. Consider these tips before your next consultation to get the best experience necessary. Tip # 1 – Do your own research first To make sure that you are really ready for Botox, it may be best to really get to know the procedure that you are considering undergoing – perhaps watch YouTube videos on the procedures so you know what to expect, then when you go to visit C2 Aesthetics Med Spa you will have a better knowledge of what we are offering. We can also help with any questions during our consultation. Tip # 2 – Referrals Here at C2 Aesthetics Med Spa, we can provide before and after’s for you to check out. Sometimes it’s best to speak to friends, co-workers or even people online who have had similar Botox procedures, chances are they will be able to give you reliable, honest advice and tell you where they get their treatments done and whether they’d recommend them. Tip # 3 – Consider trained professionals Facial injections and treatments are an expert procedure and should be administered by a qualified and trained practitioner. You will want to research into the clinic to ensure the staff are all trained and have the papers to prove their qualifications. Tip # 4 – Considering C2 Aesthetics Med Spa When finding a clinic, it is best to ensure that they are an established medical and cosmetic clinic. In recent years many non-medical clinics such as hairdressers and beauty salons have started to offer Botox, however most of these places are ill-equipped and are not ideal environments to perform surgical procedures. Yes they may offer the procedure for a fraction of the cost, but you may end up with a botch job and that is really not worth the saving. Tip # 5 – Have a consultation before any procedure Some of the more reliable clinics will always offer pre-consultations to clients at an extra cost who are new to the procedures and want to gain more knowledge before undergoing the procedure. A good practice allows you to check out the clinic premises beforehand, this is also a great opportunity to ask the doctor any questions and let them know of any concerns you may have.

Discover the Benefits of Rejuvenating Your Skin with Sculptra at C2 Aesthetics

At C2Aesthetics we understand the importance of youthful, radiant skin. That’s why we offer Sculptra, a revolutionary non-surgical treatment designed to restore your skin’s natural volume and smooth out wrinkles and fine lines. If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to achieve a more youthful appearance, Sculptra might be the perfect solution for you. What is Sculptra? Sculptra is an FDA-approved dermal filler that works by stimulating your skin’s natural collagen production. It is made from poly-L-lactic acid, a biocompatible and biodegradable substance. Unlike other fillers, Sculptra doesn’t just provide immediate results; it gradually restores your skin’s volume over time, resulting in a more natural-looking outcome. Benefits of Sculptra

How Does Virtue RF Microneedling Transform Your Skin for a Radiant Glow?

C2 Aesthetics and their team provide innovative technology to make you feel as comfortable as possible, which includes offering Virtue RF. C2 Aesthetics Medspa offers Virtue RF, Deep RF, and Smart RF, all which helps each and everyone’s various skin goals. RF microneedling, also known as radiofrequency microneedling, is a cosmetic procedure that combines microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) energy to rejuvenate the skin and improve its texture. Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure in which tiny needles are used to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating the body’s natural wound healing process and collagen production. Collagen is a protein that helps the skin maintain its youthful and firm appearance. RF microneedling takes microneedling a step further by incorporating radiofrequency technology. During the procedure, the microneedles penetrate the skin and deliver RF energy into the deeper layers. This dual-action approach provides several benefits: RF microneedling is considered safe and effective when performed by a trained and qualified professional. The number of sessions needed, and the results vary from person to person, and it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider or a licensed aesthetician to determine if this procedure is suitable for your skin concerns. How does RF Microneedling work?

Exploring the Connection: Can Botox Really Impact Mood and Depression?

The benefits of Botox and finally removing the stigma of getting it. The amount of Botox injections given has increased by nearly 459% since 2000. What is Botox? Botulinum toxin is a potent neurotoxin, meaning it damages or impairs the functioning of the nerves. Produced by several bacteria (mainly Clostridium botulinum), botulinum toxin is responsible for a rare but sometimes deadly disease called botulism (e.g., foodborne botulism). Foodborne botulism, of course, is usually associated with improperly canned food. The mechanisms of botulinum toxin’s actions are complex. Put simply, they involve preventing the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, where muscle cells and motor neurons meet. The action of the toxin can have dangerous consequences, especially when it results in blocking the transmission of messages between nerves and important muscles, such as those that help us breathe. But what if we injected a small amount of the toxin into the muscles responsible for, say, frown lines? Indeed, many people are aware of the uses of this toxin for cosmetic purposes (as OnabotulinumtoxinA injections, known as Botox), such as for relaxing and softening the muscles that cause facial wrinkles. What some people may not know is that Botox injections are also used for the management of other conditions including hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), migraine headaches, urinary incontinence, certain eye conditions (e.g., lazy eye, eye twitching, crossed eyes), as well as other types of excessive muscle contraction and stiffness (e.g., cervical dystonia, which is a painful type of neck spasm). How does Botox influence mood and depressive symptoms? A newer use of Botox injections has been in the treatment of depression. Yes, depression. For instance, the results of a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, published in 2014, showed that Botox injections into facial muscles (the corrugator and procerus muscles) reduced depressive symptoms. The response rate (50% or greater reduction in Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale scores), measured six weeks after the injections, was 15% in the placebo injections group but 52% in the Botox injection group. So, how might Botox injections reduce depression? One explanation, called the facial feedback hypothesis, involves how changes in facial expressions affect the brain. For example, when we frown, we are more likely to evaluate unpleasant stimuli (e.g., a picture of a couple arguing) more negatively than usual. Indeed, contracting facial muscles (e.g., muscles used for the emotional expression of rage or pain) can affect the autonomic nervous system activity, resulting in changes in sweating, blood pressure, heart rate, etc. Botox injections might interfere with these effects. How? By signaling to trigeminal nerve endings in the face—nerves potentially involved in sensing muscle tension and pain—“a relief of physical stress, resulting in decreased emotional stress.” In short, Botox injections break up the feedback loop from certain facial muscles—muscles communicating to the brain that one is feeling angry, sad, miserable, etc. Note that other mechanisms for the positive effects of Botox on depression have also been suggested. These consist, among others, of the effects of Botox on the central nervous system via various direct and indirect pathways, more positive self-awareness (greater self-confidence and satisfaction due to improved appearance), and altered social interactions (e.g., those appearing more relaxed and happy being more approachable).

C2 Aesthetics: Which Laser Treatment Is Right for You? MOXI vs. BBL

Two of the most talked about laser and light skin treatments right now are MOXI and BBL, both by Sciton, a leader in laser technology. While there are several similarities between these two cutting-edge choices, there are also a few notable differences that allow each treatment to provide unique benefits to your skin.  How Does the MOXI Laser Work Different from BBL? The MOXI laser is a fractionated, non-ablative laser, making it a gentler alternative to traditional laser skin resurfacing. Non-ablative lasers work by heating the skin in order to stimulate the natural healing and collagen production process to reduce signs of aging, pigmentation issues, and other minor skin imperfections.  Unlike ablative lasers, non-ablative lasers like MOXI do not injure the skin, so there is little to no downtime afterwards. Fractionated lasers divide the heat into thousands of micro-treatment areas, targeting only a fraction of the treatment area at a time. This makes the treatment even gentler on the skin and greatly accelerates the skin healing process.  MOXI Laser Benefits Because of its gentle nature, MOXI is suitable for all skin types, even those with sensitive skin. MOXI can also be used to treat melasma, a skin condition common in pregnant women that causes dark patches of skin. Some other types of laser treatments are not suitable for treating melasma because they can increase the risk of hyperpigmentation. Because MOXI is so gentle on the skin, however, it can safely and effectively treat melasma, along with other types of pigmentation. MOXI is also known for its ability to work as a prejuvenation tool to help prevent signs of aging before they show up on your skin. Additionally, MOXI can treat existing skin concerns, including uneven skin tone and texture, sun damage and signs of aging. MOXI Laser Results You will see results after the first treatment, but best results will be seen after a series of 3 to 4 MOXI treatments, each spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart. Initial results can be visible in as little as one week after your MOXI appointment, though it can take up to three months to see your final outcome. Easily maintain your MOXI results with a touch-up treatment scheduled once or twice per year. How Does Broadband Light Therapy Work? Broadband light (BBL) therapy is an advanced type of intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment. BBL and other IPL skin treatments use multiple wavelengths of light to treat a variety of skin conditions and a larger area of skin than traditional laser treatments, which use only a single wavelength of laser energy.  As the light passes over your skin, it gently heats targeted tissue such as pigmentation, broken blood vessels, or damaged skin cells, triggering your skin’s natural healing process and production of collagen to improve the tone and texture of your skin. BBL Treatment Benefits While MOXI is perhaps best known for its prejuvenation capabilities, BBL skin treatments shine when it comes to treating a wide range of existing skin conditions, including: BBL treatments are gentle on the skin and typically only take around 15 minutes to complete. There’s little to no downtime after this treatment, so you can get right back to your normal routine after your appointment.  BBL Treatment Results  You can expect to see a noticeable improvement in your skin’s appearance within just a few days after your BBL treatment, with full results developing over the next weeks. While you can see a significant improvement in a variety of skin conditions after a single BBL treatment, most people see the best and longest-lasting results after a series of 2 to 4 BBL skin treatments. BBL results tend to last for several months before a touch-up treatment may be needed. 

Uncovering the Truth: What is “TrapTox” and How Does It Affect Your Health?

Also known as, Barbie Botox, here’s what the newest craze is all about. TrapTox is an injectable treatment to relax the trapezius muscles, commonly nicknamed the traps. This large muscle group starts from the neck, expands to the top of each shoulder, and runs down the upper back in an inverted triangle. Overworked trapezius muscles can become tight and stiff. The resulting tension in your neck, shoulders, and upper back can lead to discomfort and postural problems. By getting Botox injections in your traps, you can block the nerve signals that cause these muscles to become overworked with constant movement. The absence of stiffness and pain will improve your posture, make your neck appear longer, and smooth your shoulders and upper back.  Botox is an FDA-approved neuromodulator that safely blocks nerve signals to stop unwanted muscular movement. Its use in minimizing facial wrinkles like crow’s feet and forehead furrows has made it the world’s most sought-after non-surgical treatment. When performed by an experienced provider, TrapTox requires no downtime and has little to no risk.  TrapTox treatments are also quick, with each session taking only a few minutes to complete. After your treatment, you can resume your daily activities without pausing for recovery. The effects can last between three and six months, after which you can decide to retain them through maintenance injections. What are the benefits of TrapTox? Dermatologists are seeing an uptick in patients requesting trapezius Botox, and for a good reason: it helps reduce tension-related pain while creating a more contoured look around your neck and shoulders. While TrapTox soothes aches and pains, it also provides aesthetic benefits by lowering the shoulders and shrinking the neck to provide a slim, feminine look like Barbie. The treatment lasts between 3 to 9 months, depending on how many times you have done the treatment, if you’ve done it regularly, your level of activity and metabolism also affect the duration of the benefits.