title: Update on neurotoxins for facial rejuvenation: what they are, how they work, and how to effectively and safely use them.
abstract: The formal aesthetic introduction of botulinum toxin (i.e., neurotoxins) more than a decade ago has revolutionized the nonsurgical aesthetic market and transformed society's view of facial rejuvenation. Understanding the similarities and differences between U.S. commercially available neurotoxins, their characteristics and composition, where they are effective, their mechanism of action, and how to safely administer them will enable the aesthetic provider to successfully utilize this powerful tool and ultimately deliver optimal facial rejuvenation outcomes. An update on neurotoxins on the horizon is also provided. Please note that this article discusses neurotoxin use in treatment areas that are considered "off label" by the Food and Drug Administration.
authors.affiliation: Connie Brennan, RN, CPSN, CANS, CPC, is currently the Director of Medical Aesthetic Education at the Center for Advanced Aesthetics at Life Time Fitness and President/Founder of Aesthetic Enhancement Solutions, LLC. Connie is a licensed registered nurse in 10 states and has earned advanced certifications in aesthetic injectables, laser resurfacing, skin care, sclerotherapy, and perioperative nursing over the course of 26 years in aesthetic medicine. Connie has worked as an expert alongside the ASPSN task force in creating the first Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS) examination.
authors.forename: Connie
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Brennan
mesh_terms: D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003357:Cosmetic Techniques / Q000592:standards*; D004954:Esthetics; D005152:Facial Muscles / Q000187:drug effects*; D006801:Humans; D009498:Neurotoxins / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012060:Rejuvenation / Q000502:physiology; D014481:United States
chemical_list: D009498:Neurotoxins; D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A