Does laser inactivate botulinum toxin?
Semchyshyn NL; Kilmer SL Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Northern California, Sacramento, California, USA. nsemchyshyn@skinlasers.com BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin is a popular and effective treatment for dynamic rhytids. It is a neurotoxic protein complex that exerts its effect by inhibiting acetylcholine release at the presynaptic neuromuscular junction. Nonablative resurfacing treatments have also become well liked by patients and physicians owing to the minimal downtime associated with treatment. Currently, same-day nonablative laser treatments are performed prior to botulinum toxin injection owing to the concern that the laser may inactivate it. On occasion, it may be desirable to perform nonablative laser after the botulinum toxin has been injected (ie, patient afterthought, scheduling concern). OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the use of nonablative rejuvenation laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) immediately following botulinum toxin injections has any effect on the efficacy of t
