Xeomin® (Neuromodulator)

What is Xeomin?

Xeomin®, or incobotulinumtoxinA, is a neuromodulating drug used to temporarily reduce the appearance of moderate to severe dynamic lines and wrinkles (those caused by facial movements like smiling and frowning).

Julie Holesh, PA

Physician assistant Julie Holesh is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. With both an artistic eye and medical expertise, she can help you achieve optimal skin quality with injectables, laser treatments, and other med spa services.

Julie Holesh, PA-C

How does Xeomin work?

Xeomin is a form of botulinum toxin type A that blocks the signals between nerves and muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles. Once injected into your facial muscles, Xeomin immediately goes to work smoothing wrinkles and fine lines. Full results from Xeomin are typically visible within 7 to 14 days, and last for approximately 4 months. We recommend patients receive injections every 3 to 4 months to maintain optimal results.

What can Xeomin treat?

Xeomin is effective at treating the following concerns:

  • Frown lines.
  • Forehead lines.
  • Crow’s feet.
  • Glabellar lines (aka the “11s”).
  • Abnormal muscle spasms in the neck, eyelids, and limbs.

“I recently received BOTOX® injections for my forehead wrinkles and am thrilled with the results! Dr. Claytor and his staff are immensely kind and professional and made me feel extremely comfortable from the moment I set foot in the office. If you’re considering any cosmetic procedure, look no further than Claytor Noon Plastic Surgery, as this is a top-tier practice.”

—real patient review

Xeomin vs. Botox®

Xeomin and Botox® both work to temporarily smooth lines and wrinkles in the face. While they contain the same active ingredient (botulinum toxin type A), the two differ in how they are formulated and applied. Unlike Botox, which contains certain accessory proteins to deliver the toxin, Xeomin is considered a “naked” injectable because it doesn’t contain any protein additives. Because of its purity, patients may be less likely to build up resistance to Xeomin over time. Patients may also be less likely to experience allergic reactions with Xeomin.

Is Xeomin more effective than Botox and Dysport®?

Though Xeomin, Botox, and Dysport® are all considered to have roughly the same effects, one randomized, double-blind study showed that Xeomin acted earlier and lasted longer than Botox or Dysport.

  • Wrinkle smoothing: Xeomin effectively softens and smooths out dynamic wrinkles and fine lines, providing a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance.
  • Purity: Xeomin is often celebrated for its “naked” formula, which contains fewer proteins surrounding the active ingredient than other neurotoxins, potentially reducing the risk of developing resistance or allergic reactions.
  • Little-to-no downtime: As an injectable, Xeomin offers a non-invasive alternative to surgical interventions, requiring no recovery time and allowing patients to promptly return to daily activities.
  • Quick procedure: The treatment is quick and straightforward, usually taking about 10-20 minutes, with minimal discomfort, making it an easy addition to beauty maintenance routines.

Dermaplaning: An exfoliating treatment that removes dead skin cells and peach fuzz from the face, providing a smoother and brighter complexion.

Epidermis: The outermost layer of the skin, which is primarily targeted during dermaplaning.

Vellus Hair: The fine, translucent hair found on the face, commonly referred to as ‘peach fuzz’.

Exfoliation: The process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.

Manual Exfoliation: A form of exfoliation that is performed using tools or physical agents instead of chemicals.

Esthetician: A licensed professional who specializes in skincare treatments and services.

Scalpel: A small, sharp knife used in dermaplaning to gently scrape off the top layer of dead skin cells and vellus hair.

Cell Turnover: The process by which the skin produces new cells to replace the ones shed.

Collagen: A protein in the skin that provides structure and elasticity.

Keratin: A protective protein found in the skin, hair, and nails.

Hyperkeratosis: An excessive buildup of keratin on the skin’s surface, often addressed through exfoliating treatments like dermaplaning.

Contraindication: Conditions or factors that serve as reasons to withhold a certain medical treatment due to the harm it could cause to the patient.

Hypopigmentation: Lightening of the skin that might occur due to various reasons, sometimes as a result of a skincare procedure.

Hyperpigmentation: Darkening of the skin which can be affected or exacerbated by some skincare treatments.

Retinoids: A class of synthetic and naturally occurring Vitamin A compounds and derivatives that are used in skin care to improve the appearance of aged and sun-damaged skin.

Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): A type of hyperpigmentation that occurs after an inflammatory process on the skin, like acne or a wound, has healed.

Am I a good candidate for Xeomin?

You may be a good candidate for Xeomin if you meet the following criteria:

  • Make sure you are not allergic to botulinum toxin type A.
  • Avoid taking the following medications prior to your Xeomin injections: aminoglycosides, anticholinergics, curare alkaloids, and muscle relaxants.
  • Avoid taking blood thinning medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen 2 weeks prior to your treatment, as they can increase your risk of bruising.
  • Avoid alcohol 24 hours prior to treatment. Alcohol is a blood thinner, which may increase your risk of bruising.

If you have further questions about your Xeomin treatment, Dr. Claytor would be happy to answer them during a personal consultation.

Does Xeomin have any side effects?

Xeomin side effects are typically mild and resolve themselves quickly. The most common side effects are swelling and redness at the injection site. You can reduce any risks of complications by choosing a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

“I have seen Dr. Claytor numerous times for BOTOX® and am always extremely happy with my results. His staff is always friendly, professional, and inviting, and he is always on time. At every appointment, he takes the time to go over my concerns to make sure we are on the same page, even though he has seen me before. Dr, Claytor explains exactly what he is doing and I never feel rushed. He is more than happy to thoroughly answer any questions I might have. He is very kind and has a wonderful bedside manner. I would highly recommend Dr. Claytor and his staff for all of your cosmetic and reconstructive needs/concerns.”

—Realself Review

About your Xeomin treatment

Dr. Claytor and our experienced Physician Assistant, Julie Holesh, typically perform Xeomin injections in 10 minutes or less, making it the perfect “lunchtime procedure.” They will numb your treatment area before your injection, after which you may feel a slight pinch from the needle. Most patients describe this procedure as comfortable and relatively pain-free. It is common for patients to experience some minor swelling around their injection site, but this normally dissipates within 1 to 2 hours.

References »

Rivkin A, Binder WJ. Long-term effects of onabotulinumtoxinA on facial lines: a 19-year experience of identical twins. Dermatologic Surgery. 2015 Jan;41 Suppl 1:S64-6. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000000193.

Cengiz AF, Goymen M, Akcali C. Efficacy of botulinum toxin for treating a gummy smile. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. 2020 Jul;158(1):50-58. doi: 10.1016/j.ajodo.2019.07.014.

Susmita A, Kolli NN, Meka S, Chakravarthi SP, Kattimani VS, Lingamaneni KP, Shaik LS. An Evaluation of Use of Botulinum Toxin Type A in the Management of Dynamic Forehead Wrinkles – A Clinical Study. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research. 2016 Oct;10(10):ZC127-ZC131. doi: 10.7860/JCDR/2016/21904.8695. 

Goldman ND, Dorton LH, Marcum KK, Gilbert RM, Sandoval LF. Evaluation of headache relief with cosmetic onabotulinumtoxinA injections. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2014 Sep;13(3):224-31. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12098.

Schedule your Main Line Xeomin consultation today

Philadelphia plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor is assisted by our highly trained aesthetic Physician Assistant Julie Holesh in administering Xeomin, BotoxDAXXIFY, and Dysport, injections as well as dermal fillers such as Juvéderm®Restylane®, the RHA® filler collectionBellafill® and Sculptra® Aesthetic.. All Xeomin treatments are performed in the safety and comfort of our private surgical office so patients can be back to their daily activities immediately following their treatment. To learn more about Xeomin and to schedule your consultation, contact us online or call us at (610) 527-4833.

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Portrait of Dr. Claytor smiling

Medically reviewed by Dr. R. Brannon Claytor — Updated on Oct 31, 2024