You know that cosmetic injectables in Dunedin like Dysport® are more popular than ever, but do you know how they work to smooth out wrinkles? The science behind the process isn't as complicated as you might think. Let's break down exactly what happens when these muscle relaxants work their magic on your face.
What Are Muscle Relaxants (Neuromodulators)?
Treatments such as Dysport are made from a purified protein that comes from bacteria, which is entirely safe when used properly. The scientific name is neuromodulators because they change how your nerves communicate with your muscles.
When you frown, smile or squint, your facial muscles contract by receiving signals from the brain through nerves. Over time, repeated muscle contractions create lines and wrinkles in the skin. Muscle relaxants temporarily interrupt these signals, giving your muscles a break and allowing your skin to smooth out.
The Neuromuscular Junction: Where the Magic Happens
To understand how Dysport works, you need to know about the neuromuscular junction. This tiny gap between nerve endings and muscle fibres is like a text message system between your brain and muscles.
The brain sends a signal down a nerve, and when it reaches the end, it releases a chemical messenger called acetylcholine that jumps across the gap and tells the muscle to contract.
How Dysport Intercepts the Signal: The Mechanism of Action
Dysport works by blocking this message system. When injected into specific facial muscles, it prevents the nerve from releasing acetylcholine, the chemical messenger.
Without acetylcholine, the muscle can't receive the signal to contract. The muscle stays relaxed because it never gets the instruction to move.
This blocking effect is very precise. Dysport only affects the exact muscles where it's injected and leaves the surrounding muscles to function normally. That's why your practitioner can target specific areas like frown lines between your eyebrows while keeping your ability to raise your eyebrows naturally.
What Happens to the Muscle Over Time? (Duration of Effects)
Over time, the nerve endings grow new pathways around the blockage, like finding a detour around road construction. This process usually takes about three to four months.
During the effective period, treated muscles remain relaxed while the skin recovers from repeated creasing. As new nerve pathways develop, the muscle gradually regains its ability to contract.
The wrinkles may slowly return, but they're often less pronounced because the muscle has had a break from constantly contracting. Many patients find that with regular treatments, their wrinkles become less deep over time because the muscles aren't continually working to create them.
Regain a More Youthful Facial Appearance
Ready to learn more about how cosmetic injectables, which Dunedin residents trust, can help you achieve smoother skin? Contact Bell Hill Dental today to schedule your consultation and discover if Dysport is right for you.
