Skin Care

Linda Sy Skincare for Rosacea, Acne, Dermatitis, Dry Skin, Problem Skin cleansers moisturizers makeup treatments sunscreen Problem Skin Types Beauty Regimens Sunscreen Q& A Skin411 Digest About Linda Sy, MD Dispensing Physicians Success Stories Ask Dr. Sy Customer Service Linda Sy Eye Firming Gel contains 3 potent ingredients that work synergistically reducing dark circles under the eyes, improving the appearance of bags under the eyes, and combating under-eye puffiness and swelling. Learn more about Eye Firming Gel! Quick Links Rosacea Products: Linda Sy Mild Oatmeal Facial Cleanser Linda Sy Vita-Oil Zinco Cream, SPF 20 (Tinted & Untinted) Acne Products: Facial Cleansing Bar for Normal/Oily Skin Acne Cover Lotion Acne Oil Control Gel Green Cream Retinol Treatment Essential Cream is Back! Shortly after we discontinued this creamy makeup foundation with sunscreen, we received numerous requests to bring it back. We asked these customers to convince us why we should bring the Essential Cream SPF 15 back and here is what they had to say... " I have used the Essential Cream for more than 15 years. This flesh-tinted cream has served as an excellent makeup foundation and sunscreen for my very dry, blotchy, sensitive skin. It evens out my skin tone and friends compliment me for my great-looking skin. If they only knew…the Essential Cream is my secret. "---Mary L. Read more testimonials... Also Now Available: Travel Size Cleansing Bars Many customers who love our facial cleansing bars have requested that we make travel sizes available so they don’t have to bring the large regular bars when they travel. Our new travel size soaps are 1.5 oz. (and measure just 3x1.5x.5). Trial size soaps can be ordered as part of our Trial Sampler . Linda Sy Skincare 990 Moraga Road Suite B Lafayette, CA 94549 in US: 1-877-546-3279 outside US: 1-925-283-4200 fax: 1-925-283-4207 CLEANSERS | MOISTURIZERS | MAKEUP | TREATMENTS | SUNSCREEN HOME | CONTACT US | STORE POLICIES | ABOUT LINDA SY | DISPENSING PHYSICIANS

Skin Rashes Health &

Summer Skin Rashes  You are here: About > Health & Fitness > Allergies > Irritating Skin Conditions > Contact Dermatitis > Summer Skin Rashes Health & Fitness Allergies Essentials Food Allergies Allergy Symptoms Treatment Options Skin Conditions Physician Locator Topics Allergies in Children Allergy Awareness Allergy Symptoms Animals and Insects Chemical Reactions Indoor Triggers Irritating Skin Conditions Outdoor Allergy Triggers Personal Struggles Prevention Tips Reactions to Foods Related Health Issues Relieving Symptoms Research Seasonal Allergies Buyer's Guide Allergy Test Kits Bedding Products That Reduce Allergens Specialized Air Purifiers Children's Allergy Books Allergy-Related Books Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Allergies newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Allergies Stay up to date! Email to a friend Print this page Suggested Reading Chemical Photosensitivity Contact Dermatitis Dermatologist Locator Additional Resources Hives All About Dermatology Rhus, The Toxic Family Recent Discussions Chocolate where to live Allergic to Alcohol? Most Popular Causes of Dark Circles Symptoms Alcohol Allergy Milk Allergy Food Allergies/Intolerances What's Hot FDA Issues Warning Egg-Free Cookie Recipes Spring Cleaning Indoor Allergy Sufferers Enlarged Tonsils and Adenoids Related Topics Asthma Skin Conditions / Acne Headaches / Migraine Thyroid Disease Pediatrics Summer Skin Rashes From Judy Tidwell , Your Guide to Allergies . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! They Have Many Causes Summer activities increase the chance of developing skin rashes. Skin rashes may appear with too much sun or heat exposure, contact with certain plants, or insect bites. Keep in mind, rashes are not always the result of an allergic reaction. Sun/Heat Rash Fair skinned individuals are more prone to develop sun rash. Small reddish blisters or small or large spots appear on areas of the skin that have been exposed to sunlight. This rash, which can appear immediately or within a few hours, is extremely itchy. The best way to prevent this rash is to wear a high sun protection factor sun screen while in the sun. Photoallergic Dermatitis Exposure to the sun can sometimes cause adverse reactions for some people. These reactions are often caused by the action of the sun on skin exposed to the chemicals found in cosmetics, perfumes, soaps, topical medications or sun tan lotions. Drug-Induced Photosensitivity Also some medications may make an individual sun sensitive. This is known as drug-induced photosensitivity. A skin rash may develop for people who take birth control pills, blood pressure medicine, antihistamines, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and some antibiotics. Prickly Heat A common rash caused by perspiration retention is miliaria, commonly known as prickly heat. Heat and humidity play a big role in causing prickly heat. When the sweat ducts become clogged or plugged by prolonged exposure to perspiration, they break open, allowing sweat to escape just below the skin which causes the rash. Plant Rashes Everyone is familiar with the rash caused by poison oak, poison ivy, or poison sumac. Did you know there are other plants that can also cause skin irritation? To name a few: Alyssum Daffodils Ginkgo tree fruit Hyacinths Ivy Japonese Boxwood Lady Slipper Orchid Lantana Pencil Trees Poinsettias Primrose Stinging Nettles Biting Insects A small, painless swelling or an intense itching rash may form at the site of the bite of an insect, such as a mosquito or horsefly. How to Treat a Rash The first step in treating an itchy rash is not to scratch. Scratching can lead to an infection which might need antibiotics to clear. Most rashes go away without treatment. If you develop a fever, or your itch is uncontrollable, call your physician. For additional information on Summertime Allergies , please refer to the collected Internet links. Important disclaimer information about this About site.   Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2006 About, Inc., A part of The New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About Tips to Losing Weight Guide to Distance Learning How to Travel for Less PHOTOS: Italy PHOTOS: Hybrid Cars What's Hot FDA Issues Warning Egg-Free Cookie Recipes Spring Cleaning Indoor Allergy Sufferers Enlarged Tonsils and Adenoids

Man Skin Care

Men's Skin Care Related Topic Anti-Aging Arginine Balding Better Sex DHEA Infertility Libido Enhancers General Health Hair Prostate Health Men's Health Testing Testosterone Sex Connection Men's Skin-Care Related Products Anti-Defiance Arginine DHEA Enhancer Energy Heart Health Longevity Skin Care Men's Health Men's Vitality Tanning Products Testosterone Yohimbe CONTENTS Men Have Skin Too Beginning with the Basics Nutrition is the Mirror of your Looks Thinning Hair Skin Problems Stretch-Marks Turn-Around Treatment 15% Buffer Alpha Hydroxy Acids This complex formulation can reduce and prevent aging appearance by: Reveals a cleaner - Smoother, more even-toned complexion - Accelerates the removal of dull, dry and discolored skin texture - Treating acne and acne scars - Reveals a softer, moister and younger looking skin. Men Have Skin Too Some people say men are thicker-skinned than women. Well, it's true. At least in the literal, physical sense. Women tend to have thinner, more fragile skin while men build up a thicker outer covering. That's the primary different the two sexes - as far as skin is concerned. Despite this distinction, a man's skin still needs just as much attention and care as a woman's. The big problem is that most men do not know how to tend to their skin. Not since the French revolution, when men wore powered wigs, high heels, perfume, makeup, and beauty eye patches, has the focus been so intense on men's beauty aids. For decades, men's skin care was frowned upon as "sissy stuff." Not much was said about men 's skin and hair. What doesn't worry you today may affect you tomorrow Today that's all changing. And if you're like most modern men and want to treat your skin and hair right but haven't a clue where to begin or what products to use, then this chapter is for you! Your first objection may be: "I've gone a long time without doing anything special to enhance my skin or hair and their looks, why start now? For starters, your appearance - now and in the future. First impressions, are important both in your business and in your social life, and are usually based on first appearance. When you develop a good skin and hair - care system, you will ensure the way you look and feel today while preserving your health and youthfulness for the future. Your future appearance should work for you, not against you. Taking care your skin and hair will not only be rewarding in the way you look but in the way you feel, too. Your skin is your body's largest organ and, like your other organs, needs care and attention. Well-cared-for skin performs its many duties more efficiently. Besides providing a protective covering for your body, your skin is a primary part of your immune system and acts as a first line of defense against invaders. While good skin care is not the answer to some of today's diseases, it plays an important part in the health of your body. It regulates your body temperature and insulates your internal organs. Through perspiration, your skin releases heat, to keep your body from becoming too warm. It protects you from environmental assaults such as cold, heat, pollution, sun and wind. It also prevents water and chemicals from entering your body. Your skin, as an organ of elimination, expels excess wastes that your kidneys, lungs and intestines can't process. So keeping your skin clean and healthy is not only beneficial for your looks but your health as well. Beginning With The Basics Ask the Expert about Natural Skin-Care Products (click) Skin care for men need not be complicated. All it takes is three steps in addition to your shaving routine. Cleansing, toning, and moisturizing can constitute your basic daily skin-care routine and can make a world of difference in the way your skin looks and feels. Keeping skin free from impurities is the primary purpose in cleansing the face. Dirt, debris, bacteria and pollution - if allowed to build up on your skin - can cause blackheads and blemishes. Pollution is a contributor to premature aging with such signs as lines and wrinkles. Most men clean their face with soap and water. Unfortunately, most soap consists of very cheap and not-too-friendly ingredients that can dry out the skin and leave a soapy residue on your skin. High alkaline soaps are not pH balance and can strip your skin of its natural moisture and alter its pH balance. Facial cleansers usually are pH balanced, and are kinder to your skin. Cleansing your face with a cleanser that also moisturizes instead of dying it out your skin will make a big difference in shaving. Your face will look and feel a lot better. Next, apply an all-natural after-shave or herbal toner. Splash it on after cleansing or shaving. Toners will closed the pores and remove residues that remain after cleansing or shaving. This can be very important for those men who have ingrown facial hairs. It also prepares your skin for the next step - moisturizing. Moisturizers do exactly as the name implies - they hold moisture in your skin. Essentially, moisturizers are a combination of water and oil. The water penetrates the skin and the oil creates a barrier on the surface, trapping the water beneath it; thus creating a plump, moist appearance. In addition, this barrier protects your skin from the elements while preventing pollutants, bacteria and debris from entering your pores. Also look for moisturizers that contains NO alcohol, fragrance, petroleum or minerals oil. Fragrance are the primary source of skin irruption and sensitization, while alcohol, besides acting as a mild antiseptic, does noting beneficial for your skin. They both can burn, sting and rob your freshly-abraded skin of its much needed moisture. Skin-Care products that contain mineral oils and petroleum can clogged pores and leave the shin to greasy and acne prone. When looking for a good skin - care system, look for products that are natural products with natural skin vitamins and herbals. Natural products will be the best for healthy looking skin. Even men will need to apply a moisturizes on a daily base, especially after shaving. The best moisturizers for men are the ones that contains healing herbal extracts and skin vitamins. Hydrating Skin Nutriment builds and maintains shins pH balance and essential moisture reserves promting it natural skin moisturing without clog pores. For anti-aging use a moisturizers with glycolic acids such as Turn -Around Treatment. Turn around Treatment is a Alpha Hydroxy moisturizer cream can help the skins surface look smoother, younger by facilitating dead skin shedding. In other words it shed off wrinkles, dull, dry skin, exposing the new healthy and youthful looking skin underneath. Caution - Turn Around Treatment contains Alpha Hydroxy Acid - Do Not Apply right after shaving. Always make sure you put back the pH balance of your skin after shaving by appling a hydrating moisturizer such as Hydrating Skin Nutriment. For young skin, keep it looking young by appling Skin Renew & Repair Treatment. Skin Renew & Repair Treatment help the complexion to become more radiant, clear, and healthy. For many men, ingrown hairs are a serious side-effect of shaving. They occur when hairs grow back into the pores instead of outward past the surface. The body views ingrown hairs as something foreign and attacks them, often resulting in infection which can look like acne. Men with curly or coarse facial hair are most likely to suffer the discomforts of ingrown hairs. Using Alpha Hydroxy Acids Cream and an soft facial scrub can reduce the incidence of ingrown hairs by keeping pores free of infections and dead skin cells. Once you're mastered the three basic concepts, you may wish to add extra treatment to make your skin look and feel even better. Using a facial scrub one to three times a week helps reduce the accumulation of dead skin cells, which can contribute to blemishes (also called shaving bumps), and oily and/or dry skin. By removing dead skin and excess oil and dirt, a scrub can leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, clean, and clear. Choose scrubs with natural exfoliates such as apricot, walnut, and/or almond seeds along with herbal extracts and skin vitamins. Spending several minutes everyday on your skin will pay off with both immediate and long-term rewards. Time invested today will show up as clean and healthy-looking skin, and your skin of the future will be softer and more youthful because of the efforts you made today. There is no way to avoid growing old, but at least you can avoid looking and feeling old. Pro duct Recommendations Cell Renewal Treatment This oil-free gel absorbs quickly without greasy build-up clogging pores. Formulated with liquid Collagen and Chamomile, "resiliency boosters" which can actually erase the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, prevent moisture loss and accelerate the growth of healthy skin cells. this state-of-the-art formula gently removes the build-up of lackluster dead cells in skin's outer layers that make the skin look dull, dry and older than it should. Reports of improvement in as little as 4 weeks. Increases skin firmness by 35% - Cell renewal by 33% - Soothes by 44% - Reduces fine lines and wrinkles by 55%. Hydrating Skin Nutriment: Builds and maintains skins pH and essential moisture reserves promoting its natural beauty without greasy build-ups. Age Protection Cream Rich in Antioxidants and Sunscreen. Its triple defense against aging , defends skin daily sun damage, high potency skin vitamins protect the skin from environmental damage and premature aging. Free - Radical fighters work to neutralize menacing molecules before they can damage and age healthy skin cells. Turn Around Treatment: 15% buffer Alpha Hydroxy Acid. This maximum strength treatment is designed for sensitive and aging skin that keeps irritation at a minimum and at the same time contains the highest amounts of age and wrinkle treatment available. Body & Fitness For Men Only 120 Tab. For Men Only provides nutrients to help support and maintain the health of today’s active men. Complete high potency multi- vitamin-minerals plus essential herbal male factors. Because a man’s hormonal glands have certain nutritional needs, For Men Only was developed to gently lift these important needs. Virility, sexuality, stamina, endurance and good health. Male Enhance Researched Men in today's society care more about virility, sexuality, and performance on all levels. Men are looking for products that enhance their lives in everything they do, products that increase energy, strength, endurance, stamina, and sexual function. A satisfying sex life requires sufficient male hormones and a healthy body. Because a man's hormonal glands have certain nutritional needs, herbal stimulants was developed to satisfy these important needs. Ma huang, Yohimbe bark, Orchid, and Muira puama have shown in studies to work for male hormonal needs. More affection, romance, excitement, energy and pleasure. Enhance also supports Prostate Health. Nutrition Is The Mirror Of Your Looks The way to a man's heart is through his stomach - and the health of a man's heart, not to mention his hair, skin and the rest of him is also through his stomach. Your looks, the condition of your skin, hair and nails is not so much a product of what you put on them but of what you put in you. In the fourteen years that I been in the health consulting business, I have observed approximately 70 percent of all men who experience hair loss eat a lot of dairy products: milk, butter, cheese, cream, etc. I feel eating these products need to be kept at an absolute minimum as they contain bacteria that destroy the hair shaft. Excessive alcohol, caffeine and drugs put a heavy burden on the liver which then has to use all its energy to rid the body of these toxins through every available channel. Some of the largest pores in your body are on the scalp, and it is through these outlets that some of the impurities that build up in the body are eliminated. It is obvious that this will take a toll on hair follicles and oil glands. In addition, alcohol, caffeine and drugs rob the body of B vitamins, and it is generally accepted that graying hair may result from a lack of the B vitamins. Sugar, salt and chemicals used in prepared nutrients, leave those parts of the body with a lower nutritional priority. Are you getting enough of the following beauty vitamins ? Vitamin A strengthens the body's immune system and helps protect cell damage. It is essential for smooth, healthy skin. Vitamin B2 boosts energy and keeps skin and hair healthy. Vitamin C is not just for cold! It strengthens the entire immune system, helps in wound healing and is important to the general health of the skin. Vitamin E's protecting qualities are legion: It is important in the up-keep of cell walls, is a wonderful topical healer, has proved successful in clearing up cold sores and its use in various beauty products is testament to its ability to counteract skin aging. THINNING and/or BALDING HAIR Hair loss is becoming increasingly common today, even among women. Every year, millions of dollars are spend on chemical creams and shampoos that promise to grow hair. People also undergo a variety of unnatural procedures, including hair transplants, in order to restore lost hair. However, as we will see, diet and lifestyle plays a primary role in the development of baldness. Baldness is a preventable condition, regardless of the prevalence of it in one's family. A primary reason why baldness tends to occur within families is because of similar dietary and lifestyle patterns that members of families share. One of the cause of hair thinning, falling out, and balding is unhealthy of hair follicles. The hair embedded in a "pocket" in the skin called the hair follicle. The follicle is in a constant need of nutrients, oxygen, and moisture to stay healthy and to stimulate new hair growth. New Re-Born Aids Hair that is: Thinning . Falling Out . Balding. New Reborn consist of Vitamin C, PABA, biotin and amino acids L- cysteine and glutathion. These nutrients can assist in the prevention of peroxidation of oil formation on the scalp, which left unchecked, can clog hair follicles and cause hair loss. Pro duct Recommendations The Bodybuilder Aids hair that is: Fine, Limp, Weak. The Bodybuilder provides a combination of protein and Vitamin C, essential nutrients for the maintenance of good hair health & vitality. These important nutrients are the primary elements for hair elasticity which provides strength, youthful, texture and resiliency for hair. Great for strong nails and for fighting wrinkles. New Re-Born Aids hair that is: Thinning, Falling out, Balding. New Re-Born provides a blend of essential nutrients to promote healthy hair growth, and also assist in the prevention of peroxidation of oil formation on the scalp. These oils can clog pores and effect the health and development of hair follicles. Healthy Glo Aids hair that is: Dull, Dry, Brittle, Slow Growing. Healthy Glo provides a blend of essential nutrients to not only promote healthy hair growth, but also assists in adding shine, and healthier looking texture to the hair. Can also be used for dry skin. SHOWERING IS HEALTH It is important to keep your body clean - every day. The skin needs to breathe, and in order to do so cannot be blocked by the accumulation of pollutants we encounter in everyday life. Keep your hair clean as grease from your hair can get on your forehead and the rest of your face and cause acne. This can happen especially after exercise. Men need to moisturize, too, particularly after shaving or bathing. Skin Renew Cream is a great choice as a man moisturizer. Skin Problems Ask the Expert about Skin Care (click) ACNE Acne is a common disorder of the oil glands. The pores secrete too much sebum (oil) which blocks the pores. Acne occurs primarily on the face, back, shoulders, chest, and sometimes arms. The incidence of acne is greatest during puberty and adolescence, when hormones that influence the secretion of the oil glands are at their peak level of activity. Unfortunate this also can happen (no matter what your age is) when exercising and under stress. This is due to the increase of the production during these times. During exercise and stress your body sweat and your oil glands are at their peak. By taking showers and using an natural scrub or loofah right after exercise while your body is still sweating will be very helpful in controlling acne. During stressful times, wash the face with a cleanser (not soap) and use a toner three time a day. This will help to close up the pores and prevent blockage. Vitamin C (1000 mg.) and Zinc (30 mg.) are an efficient bacterial suppresser and aid in resisting the spread of acne infection. Also use a blend of essential oils. Skin Renew Treatment helps acne and acne scars. STRETCH-MARKS Stretch marks are a breakage of the skin usually due to fast growth. Fast growth can be the result of gaining weight, weight training, and teenage growing. Although deep breakage of the skin are almost impossible to totally repair, stretch marks on the top layers of the skin can be repaired. Prevention is the key word. Dry skin and skin with less elasticity are likely to have more breakage. Skin Renew Treatment consists of: Vitamin E, cocoa butter, collagen, and natural oils such as safflower oil and jojoba oil will also be effective in keeping the skin lubricated for prevention. Collagen provides the strength, elasticity and support the skin needs to bounce back and repair itself. If you have signs of breakage, glycolic and lactic acid are great for exfoliating the top layers of the skin where fine stretch-marks breakage occurs. Aloe Vera gel is also good for healing the skin. Vitamin C (1000 mg.) and Zinc (30 mg. a day) are great for internal use. Vitamin C's primary benefit to the skin is to maintain collagen in the skin tissue. Zinc is essential for healthy growth of the skin. Big Savings on Health Supplements This Month Specials 2.2 lbs On Sale $25.99 Alive Whole Food Energizer Ultra Shake Vitamins - Minerals - Protein Plus fruits, Vegetables, Green foods, Herbs, Bioflavonoids, Amino Acids, Enzymes, EFAs, Mushrooms. Non-GMO Soy Protein Skin Renew Treatment with 10% Alpha Hydroxy, On Sale $2.99 Reg $12.99 Coral Calcium is highly absorbable, gentle and the digestive systems, and naturally contains every mineral found in the body. On Sale $9.99 Psyllium Herbal Combination (Intestinal Cleanser) - A natural way to ease constipation and clean your intestines and Colon of toxin Special $16.99 Reg $27.99 Click here Infor. Click here Infor. Click here Infor. Click here infor Ask the Expert about Men's Health Supplements (click) Back Up Home Back to Main Contents Shopping Center Research Center Keep Updated on new products, information & research, and up coming events.

Dry skin Dry skin

Dry skin. DermNet NZ DermNet NZ Ad Authoritative facts about the skin from the New Zealand Dermatological Society Incorporated . Home For patients For doctors Find a dermatologist About Store Contact Site map Search: Home | Dermatitis Dry skin Dry skin is common; as skin loses moisture the surface cracks. The inherited forms of dry skin are known as ‘ ichthyosis ’ (fish-scale skin). There are various kinds of ichthyosis. Dermatologists often call dry skin arising in later life ‘xerosis’, ‘asteatosis’ or ‘acquired ichthyosis’. The dry areas may result in dermatitis, i.e. the skin becomes red and itchy. This may result in a crazy-paving appearance on the lower legs (‘eczema craquelé’), or round patches scattered over the trunk and limbs (a dry form of nummular dermatitis ). Sometimes the dry skin is just itchy, without much of a rash (sometimes known as ‘winter itch’, ‘7th age itch’, or ‘senile pruritus’). Ichthyosis Close-up of ichthyosis Dermatitis from dry skin Causes of dry skin Factors which contribute to dry and cracked skin include: Inherited factors Metabolic factors such as an underactive thyroid gland, or excessive weight loss. Increasing age, resulting in decreased natural lubrication. Cool weather, especially when windy or the humidity is low. Air conditioning, central heating or sitting close to a fire or fan heater. Excessive bathing, showering or swimming, especially in strongly chlorinated hot or cold water. Contact with soap, detergents and solvents. Frictional irritation and chapping. Treatment of dry skin An important aspect of treatment is to identify and tackle any contributing factors (see the list of causes above). Reduce how often you bath or shower, and use lukewarm water. Showers may be better than baths. Replace standard soap with a substitute such as a synthetic detergent cleanser, water-miscible emollient, bath oil, anti-pruritic tar oil, etc. Apply an emollient liberally and often, particularly after bathing, and when itchy. The drier the skin, the thicker this should be, especially on the hands. Treat eczematous patches with a topical steroid for a 5 to 15 day course. These are prescribed by your doctor and should be only applied to the red and itchy areas. Long term control Dry skin is usually a long term and recurring problem, especially in winter. When you notice your skin getting dry, resume your lubricating routine and use a non-soap cleanser. If the itchy dry-skin rash returns, use both the lubricating routine and the prescription steroid cream or ointment. Related information On DermNet: Atopic dermatitis Dermatitis Ichthyosis Emollients Other web sites: Asteatotic Eczema (Dry Skin) - emedicine dermatology, the on-line medical reference textbook. Books: See the DermNet NZ bookstore DermNet does not provide an on-line consultation service. If you have any concerns with your skin or its treatment, see a dermatologist for advice. Created 1997. Last updated 15 Aug 2005.© 2006 NZDS . Disclaimer .

BOTOX, a focal agent

BOTOX > Consumer Connection > FAQ home | find | contact | help BOTOX belongs to a class of drugs called botulinum toxins. BOTOX, a focal agent intended to reduce muscle contraction, is the brand of botulinum toxin type A made by Allergan. BOTOX is the most studied brand of botulinum toxins and has been helping patients worldwide for more than 15 years. This section is designed to help you understand the way BOTOX works, its effectiveness, and its side effects. The potential of BOTOX for continued use is also discussed. You may find it helpful to bookmark this site for future reference. BOTOX is a formulation of botulinum toxin type A. It is derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. This bacterium produces a protein that blocks the release of acetylcholine and relaxes muscles. Type A is just one of seven different types of botulinum toxin (A, B, C1, D, E, F, and G), and each has different properties and actions. No two of these botulinum toxins are alike. More than 100 years of research have expanded our knowledge of botulinum toxin type A from the identification of the bacterium Clostridium botulinum to the commercialization of botulinum toxin type A as BOTOX. In the 1960s, the muscle-relaxing properties of botulinum toxin type A were tapped for investigational use in realigning crossed eyes. These early studies paved the way for treating other conditions caused by overactive muscles with botulinum toxin type A. BOTOX is indicated for the treatment of cervical dystonia in adults to decrease the severity of abnormal head position and neck pain associated with cervical dystonia. BOTOX is indicated for the treatment of strabismus and blepharospasm associated with dystonia, including benign essential blepharospasm or VII nerve disorders in patients 12 years of age and above. Important Safety Information BOTOX treatment is contraindicated in the presence of infection at the proposed injection site(s) and in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the formulation. Serious and/or immediate hypersensitivity reactions have been rarely reported. These reactions include anaphylaxis, urticaria, soft tissue edema, and dyspnea. If such a reaction occurs, further BOTOX injection should be discontinued and appropriate medical therapy immediately instituted. BOTOX should only be diluted with 0.9% non-preserved sodium chloride. Other diluents, including lidocaine should not be used for reconstitution. Individuals with peripheral motor neuropathic diseases (eg, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or motor neuropathy) or neuromuscular junctional disorders (eg, myasthenia gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome) should only receive BOTOX treatment with caution. The most frequently reported adverse reactions in patients with cervical dystonia are dysphagia (19%), upper respiratory infection (12%), neck pain (11%), and headache (11%).The most frequently reported treatment-related adverse reactions in blepharospasm patients are ptosis (20.8%), superficial punctate keratitis (6.3%), and eye dryness (6.3%). No. BOTOX has been used for more than 15 years to help patients worldwide, and it is approved by the health ministries of at least 70 countries. BOTOX is Allergan's brand of botulinum toxin type A. A brand of botulinum toxin type B is also now available. The two toxins are different in several ways: They are different serotypes They have different manufacturing processes They work differently They require different doses When drugs are taken by mouth, they are distributed throughout the body by the blood system. In contrast, BOTOX injections are administered directly into the desired site of action. BOTOX is not expected to be present in the bloodstream at measurable levels following treatment at the recommended dosage, and typically remains in the injected muscle, although some spread to the adjacent muscle may occur. Normally, your brain sends electrochemical messages to your muscles to make them contract and move. These messages are transmitted from a nerve to the muscle by a substance called acetylcholine. When too much acetylcholine is released, muscles become overly active and spasm or tense up. click to enlarge BOTOX blocks the nerve from releasing acetylcholine. As a result, the muscle spasms stop or are greatly reduced, providing relief from symptoms. Your healthcare provider will know how much BOTOX is needed to treat you effectively. click to enlarge It's important to remember that botulinum toxin treatment is not a cure. For many people, however, its effects have been dramatic. With BOTOX, the nerve will take about 3 months to recover and begin to release acetylcholine, and the muscles may become overactive again. At that point, another injection will be needed to provide relief, as long as no allergic reactions or other significant side effects occurred and clinical response was obtained. Each treatment typically lasts up to 3 months and can be repeated as long as your condition responds to BOTOX and you do not have any serious allergic reactions or other significant side effects. BOTOX has been used for more than 15 years to help patients worldwide, and although formal, long-term clinical evaluations have not been conducted, its safety in long-term use has been well established. Although most people continue to respond to BOTOX injections, some people have experienced a diminished response over time. There may be several explanations for this: Changes in your condition - If the pattern of your muscle activity changes, your healthcare provider may need to inject new muscles and/or change your dose. Identifying and injecting the affected muscle can be difficult, complicated by the changing pattern of muscle involvement and progression of the disorder. Setting appropriate expectations - You may believe your first BOTOX injection was more helpful than subsequent injections. That's because your condition was perhaps quite severe when you had your first injection. Subsequent injections are usually given before your condition becomes that severe again. Therefore, the relief you experienced with subsequent injections may not have been as dramatic as the first time. Antibody formation - When foreign proteins, like botulinum toxins, enter your body, antibodies may form. If antibodies to botulinum toxin develop, you may no longer respond to treatment. Because botulinum toxins are usually used to treat chronic conditions, it's important to preserve responsiveness to therapy. While the critical factors for neutralizing antibody formation have not been well characterized, you may be able to help maintain your response to BOTOX by minimizing your total exposure. The potential for antibody formation may be minimized by injecting with the lowest effective dose given at the longest feasible intervals between injections. BOTOX is injected into the affected muscle(s). Your doctor will determine which muscles need to be treated. Some people report discomfort from the injection. BOTOX is reconstituted with sterile, preservative-free, normal saline for injection. The neutral pH of the injected solution, in combination with the fine-gauge needle your doctor will use, can help to minimize any injection-related pain. If you're receiving BOTOX for cervical dystonia, you'll usually see the effects within 2 weeks of the injection. If you're receiving BOTOX for blepharospasm, you'll usually see effects within 3 days. BOTOX offers sustained relief, dose after dose. The relief you'll feel from 1 treatment of BOTOX will normally last for up to 3 months. Treatments can be continued as long as your condition responds to BOTOX, and you do not have any serious allergic reactions or other significant side effects. When the relief begins to fade, you'll return to your doctor for your next treatment. Usually, BOTOX treatment is required approximately 4 times per year. Because symptoms can change over time, the amount and duration of relief you'll experience can vary. Consult your doctor, who can determine how to achieve the best possible results with BOTOX. The most frequently reported adverse reactions in patients receiving BOTOX for the treatment of cervical dystonia are dysphagia (difficulty swallowing, 19%), upper respiratory infection (such as a cold or flu,12%), neck pain (11%), and headache (11%). Dysphagia is a commonly reported adverse event following treatment of cervical dystonia patients. In these patients, there are reports of rare cases of dysphagia serious enough to require the insertion of a gastric feeding tube (a tube for introducing nutritious, high-calorie fluids into the stomach). The most frequently reported treatment-related adverse reactions in patients receiving BOTOX for the treatment of blepharospasm are ptosis (droopy eyelids, 21%), superficial punctuate keratitis (inflammation of the cornea characterized by small erosions of the tissue covering the cornea, 6%), and eye dryness (6%). Reduced blinking from BOTOX injection of the orbicularis muscle can lead to corneal exposure, persistent epithelial defect (a defect in the corneal covering), and corneal ulceration (a hollowed-out cavity in the cornea), especially in patients with VII nerve disorders. Please seek immediate medical attention if swallowing, speech, or respiratory (breathing) disorders arise. Your healthcare provider can help you decide if BOTOX is right for you. In order to make the right treatment decision, you should discuss the following with your healthcare provider before choosing treatment: Clinical experience with the drug Effectiveness and side effects Make sure your healthcare provider knows if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking any medications before receiving BOTOX injections. Additionally, you should not receive BOTOX if you have an infection at the injection site. BOTOX should be used with caution if you have other neurological diseases or disorders, or if you are taking aminoglycoside antibiotics or other drugs that interfere with neuromuscular transmission. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking before receiving BOTOX. The BOTOX ADVANTAGE Program Reimbursement Hotline has been helping patients and physicians get answers to their BOTOX reimbursement questions for years. In addition, BOTOX has more than a decade of reimbursement experience with insurance carriers and healthcare providers. It is this experience that has resulted in BOTOX coverage by most payers, including Medicare and Medicaid, particularly for cervical dystonia. Some insurance plans cover BOTOX under the medical benefit, and others cover BOTOX under the pharmacy benefit. To find out how BOTOX is covered under your insurance plan, call the BOTOX ADVANTAGE Program Reimbursement Hotline, toll-free, at 1-800-530-6680. Our knowledgeable Hotline staff is available to assist you with your insurance coverage questions Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm ET. Additionally, Hotline representatives will help physicians and patients research alternative coverage for those who do not have insurance or cannot qualify for government assistance. If the Hotline representatives cannot find alternative coverage, they will help determine if patients meet the criteria for the BOTOX Patient Assistance Program. The BOTOX Patient Assistance Program is available to all patients who lack insurance coverage and demonstrate financial need. Your healthcare provider is the best source of information about your condition and its treatment. However, there are several organizations that you may also find helpful: Benign Essential Blepharospasm Research Foundation (BEBRF) (409) 832-0788 www.blepharospasm.org Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) (312) 755-0198 (800) 377-DYST www.dystonia-foundation.org ST/Dystonia, Inc. (262) 560-9534 (888) 445-4588 www.spasmodictorticollis.org The National Spasmodic Torticollis Association (NSTA) (714) 378-7837 (800) 487-8385 www.torticollis.org WE MOVE--Worldwide Education and Awareness for Movement Disorders (800) 437-MOV2 www.wemove.org For more information on BOTOX, contact us through this Web site: Contact Us or call 1-800-44-BOTOX File Type: pdf File Size: 659 KB Patient Brochure Click here to download the Frequently Asked Questions in PDF format. Portable Document Format(.pdf) files require the latest version of the free Adobe Acrobat Reader?. Get the Acrobat plug-in. References: 1. Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. Assessment: the clinical usefulness of botulinum toxin-A in treating neurologic disorders. Neurology . 1990;40:497-501. 2. US Dept of Health and Human Services. Botulinum toxin. Consensus statement. NIH Consensus Development Conference; November 12-14, 1990. Bethesda, Md: National Institutes of Health; 1990. 2005 ALLERGAN | Terms of Use | PrescribingInformation | Privacy The information on this site is intended for US residents only.