Botox for acne, too?

September 11, 2012

Botox for acne, too?
Botox for acne, too?

When most people hear the word "Botox," it conjures up images of injectable cosmetics used to treat forehead wrinkles or lines around the eyes and mouth. Some people may also know that Botox is used to help people who suffer from excessive sweating. And now, a new study suggests that those with acne may also benefit from Botox injections, according to Medical Daily.

There aren't many doctors who use Botox to treat the skin issue, but a Chicago-based plastic surgeon swears by the procedure and went so far as to publish a study on it in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

Instead of using botulinum toxin type A to freeze the muscles that cause wrinkles in the face, the Illinois doctor injects the toxin into the skin, and he says it treats sebum (otherwise known as oil) production and large pores, in turn reducing the number of acne breakouts.

The doctor told the new source that he only practices this form of acne treatment on individuals who are over the age of 20, as it is not a suitable procedure for those who are still in their teenage years. "Their hormonal changes are likely permanent," the doctor said of the patients he treats. "For them, Botox is now the safest, most effective treatment we have."

The jury's still out on whether or not Botox injections treat acne, but there are multiple laser and light treatment options for adults who have skin issues that they can't take care of on their own. A good skin care regimen with the use of facials, microdermabrasion or chemical peels would be of great help.

Remember to enlist the help of a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon when seeking out stronger treatments for your skin. 


The mission of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) includes medical education, public education and patient advocacy. Plastic Surgery News Briefs are summaries of current stories found through various news and magazine outlets that relate to or mention plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. The views expressed in these news articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ASAPS, but are merely published as an educational service to our members and the general public. For additional information on these subjects and other plastic surgery related topics, please go to www.surgery.org

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About ASAPS
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), is recognized as the world’s leading organization devoted entirely to aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine of the face and body.  ASAPS is comprised of over 2,600 Plastic Surgeons; active members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (USA) or by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and have extensive training in the complete spectrum of surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures. International active members are certified by equivalent boards of their respective countries. All members worldwide adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and must meet stringent membership requirements.

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