CLINIC Corner:
Botulinum Toxin Gel May Ease Crow's Feet
— A new botulinum toxin-based gel has the potential to help smooth crow’s feet without the need for needles, HealthDay News reports. In part of a new phase 2 trial, 90 patients with moderate-to-severe crow’s feet were randomly assigned to be treated either with a placebo gel or the botulinum toxin gel. Almost 90 percent of the latter had a clinically meaningful reduction in wrinkles, compared with 28 percent of those receiving placebo.
In a second study involving 180 adults with crow’s feet, about 40 percent of those treated with the botulinum toxin gel responded favorably, researchers said.
The new research is encouraging because it demonstrated that the gel “noticeably softened crow’s feet,” said lead author Michael Kane, M.D., a plastic surgeon at the Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital. Dr. Kane has served as an investigator and consultant for Revance Therapeutics, Mountain View, Calif., which has been trying to develop an alternative to Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA, Allergan) for several years.
Effects of the gel last for about four months, comparable to the duration of Botox injections, investigators said.
With phase 3 studies yet to be done, still to be determined are whether the gel would work better than injected toxin, how much treatments would cost and when the gel might be available, Dr. Kane said.
When trying to make an educated decision on the appropriate treatment and home regime, there are several factors to consider. First, what are you trying to accomplish. What are your expectations? Are you seeking subtle or drastic results? The more defined results require multiple procedures and/ or more down time. What is the budget? You want to make sure that you are getting the most for each dollar. For example, as much as I like botox@ it is costly and usually lasts 3-5 months. Sometimes those same funds could be used on another regime or procedure that would provide longer lasting benefits. When considering recomendation, please be aware of the advisors credentials. Make sure they have the educational background and an understanding of anatomy and physiology.
There are so many products on the market that it is difficult for the consumer to understand the differences and benefits of product. The most important factors are PH and Particle size. Basically to obtain significant results the product must be able to go deep enough to reach where cells are forming. A low PH and small particle sizes allow the product to reach this depth. The following are a list of ingredients and potential benefits:
*TRETINOIN increases epidermal cell mitosis and turnover. Facilitates optimal cell health.
*HYDROQUINONE melanin inhibitor, bleaching cream
*VITAMIN C antioxidant, Promotes collagen synthesis and tissue repair
*GLYCOLIC exfoliator, stimulates collagen
*GREEN TEA EXTRACT antioxidant protects assist in melanoma prevention
* HYLURONIC ACID collagen and elastin supporter Ability to hold 1000 times its weight in water, most effective when injected d/t large particle size
*LACTIC ACID exfoliator stimulates collagen and elastin production
* LAVENDER astringent with antibacterial and anti inflamatory properties
* ALPHA LOPOIC ACID antioxidant, protects the inside of the cell where energy is produced.
* PEPTIDES amino acid building block of collagen
*DMAE Firms sagging skin*CopperStimulates elastin, collagen, and keratin
*ZINC OXIIDE reduces redness, promotes healing, blocks UVA/UVB rays
*PANTHENOL vitamin B complex promotes cellular metabolism
* ARNICA antibacetial and anti inflamatory
*POLYPHENOLS and CAFFEIN blocks formation of skin cancer
Our Clinic is dedicated to bringing you the most effective treatments available.
Nathan W. Patterson M.D.
Medical Director
Michelle Ray R.N. M.E.P-C
C.E.O./Owner