The enduring charm of Botox in ironing out wrinkles is well-recognised. However, the emergence of Daxxify, a new player in aesthetic injectables, is causing quite a stir. Officially greenlit by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on 8 September 2022, Daxxify is poised to dethrone its predecessor. The buzz around Daxxify centres on its groundbreaking promise: delivering results that considerably outlast Botox’s effects, especially when addressing frown lines. It’s touted to offer the most enduring impact compared to its market contemporaries. Furthermore, the only neuromodulator (the technical term for wrinkle-smoothing injections) incorporates a peptide formulation.
Is DAXXIFY available in the U.K.?
Daxxify has yet to reach the U.K. market, but it’s tipped to revolutionise cosmetic treatments here. In 2022, the U.K. welcomed Nuceiva, a new botulinum toxin brand. Essence Medical Cosmetic Clinic in Glasgow, renowned and led by Dr Kieren Bong – often called ‘Scotland’s Botox King’ – was the first Scottish clinic to introduce Nuceiva. Dr Bong eagerly anticipates adding Daxxify to his clinic’s offerings.
Dr Bong notes, “Typically, our patients require three to four Botox sessions annually. With Daxxify’s extended longevity, they might only need a few visits yearly. This is cost-effective for our patients and allows us to optimise our appointment schedule and reduce waiting times – a win-win for everyone.”
What is Daxxify?
Revance Therapeutics, the innovators behind Daxxify (DaxibotulinumtoxinA), describe it as a cutting-edge aesthetic injection. It’s designed to temporarily alleviate moderate to severe frown lines (also referred to as glabellar lines) in adults. Remarkably, it stands as the first and sole neuromodulator in the market, enhanced by peptide technology. This innovative approach ensures the botulinum toxin is efficiently delivered to nerve cells. Dr Bong explains, “What sets it apart is a unique peptide linked to the active part of the drug. This peptide increases the ‘stickiness’ at the nerve-muscle junction, thereby prolonging its effects.”
Dr Bong adds, “Daxxify functions by obstructing the nerve signals that cause muscle contraction. This leads to a relaxation of the muscles primarily responsible for wrinkles, smoothing them out and helping prevent the formation of new ones.”
Additionally, Daxxify’s composition is noteworthy for excluding human serum albumin – a protein typically found in human blood – and any animal-derived ingredients. This aspect broadens its appeal and underscores its commitment to ethical and inclusive practices in cosmetic treatments.
What Is Botox?
Botox, a trailblazer in its domain, received FDA approval over two decades ago. Dr Bong highlights that it’s a toxin (onabotulinumtoxinA) that temporarily stops muscle contractions. This is achieved by impeding the activity of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter responsible for transmitting signals from the nerve to the muscle.
“Botox can be described as a neuromodulator, a rather sophisticated term for a muscle-relaxing agent,” Dr Bong elucidates. Having been used extensively in the cosmetic industry, Botox has seen widespread application in millions of patients globally. Its mechanism involves acting at the juncture where the muscle and nerve meet. Here, it effectively blocks the release of acetylcholine, a specific nerve signal, thus reducing the activity of the targeted muscle.
How is Daxxify different from Botox?
Botox and Daxxify have secured FDA approval as effective treatments for smoothing frown lines between the eyebrows. “Their mechanisms are fundamentally identical, placing them in the same category of neuromodulators or neurotoxins,” explains Dr Bong. These treatments achieve their effects by blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, responsible for signalling the muscle to contract. As a result, reducing muscle activity softens fine lines and wrinkles.
A common grievance among those who regularly use injectables is the fleeting nature of their results. Neuromodulators like Botox typically offer relief for only a few months, which can be a strain on the wallet. “Daxxify is poised to revolutionise the market. Existing neuromodulators show effectiveness for about three months,” states Dr Bong. The critical advantage of Daxxify, despite delivering similar results to Botox when injected between the eyebrows, is its longevity, with effects lasting from six to nine months. This introduces new options for consumers.
Dr Bong also points out, “However, it’s crucial to remember that Botox has been available significantly longer than Daxxify, meaning there’s a wealth of research and experience backing Botox.”
Are there any side effects?
Dr Bong assures that Daxxify is broadly considered safe and well-received. “Clinical trials indicate that it’s on par with other botulinum toxins in the market regarding side effects,” he remarks. This means that the common side effects, such as bruising, headaches, and temporary drooping of the eyelids, are consistent with those experienced with other neuromodulators. As with any aesthetic procedure, it’s paramount to entrust these injections to a medical professional. This approach helps in significantly lowering the likelihood of any undesirable reactions.
How soon do you see Daxxify results?
Clinical studies indicate that the effects (referring to reduced activity in the treated muscles) of Daxxify become noticeable within approximately two days. Many patients in the U.S. observed a slight decrease in muscle movement within 24 hours and complete immobility after two days. This is significant, especially when other neuromodulators on the market can take up to a week to manifest their full effects.
How much does Daxxify cost?
There’s no definitive information regarding Daxxify’s pricing in the U.K., and it’s anticipated that individual practitioners will set the final cost. Cities in England such as London and Manchester will likely be more expensive than Glasgow. Given its prolonged effectiveness, it’s generally expected that Daxxify will command a higher price point than Botox.
In the United States, the cost of Daxxify is notably higher compared to other well-known neuromodulators such as Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport. “On average, one might anticipate Daxxify to be 50 to 100 per cent pricier than its counterparts,” advises Dr Bong. This is attributed to the requirement of nearly twice the quantity of units for achieving effects similar to those offered by competing products.
Are there any downsides to Daxxify?
“The primary drawback of Daxxify,” Dr Bong points out, “is that if the injection pattern isn’t to your liking, or if the results don’t meet your expectations, you’re looking at a longer duration before they subside.” Additionally, the increased cost is a factor to consider. Although Daxxify may extend the duration of the results, there is a gradual return of movement as the toxin starts to wear off.
This means the smoothness in your crow’s feet at month three will differ at month five. For some individuals, maintaining regular Botox appointments is more beneficial than experimenting with a new product that, in the end, could cost a similar amount over time.
The Final Takeaway
Daxxify and Botox both serve the same purpose of diminishing fine lines and wrinkles, yet they differ in their formulation and the length of time their effects last. The choice between Daxxify and Botox will ultimately hinge on individual preferences and circumstances. Once Daxxify receives approval for use in the U.K., it’s expected that Essence Medical Cosmetic Clinic will be among the pioneering clinics in Scotland to provide this treatment. “Do come for a consultation, share your aspirations, desired duration of results, and financial considerations with us, and we will do our best to help you,” suggests Dr Bong.
