You usually hear about Botox and Dysport as anti-aging treatments for wrinkle reduction, but wouldn’t it be nice if it also helped acne? There is evidence that botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) can reduce the production of sebum in the sebaceous glands which reduces oil production on the skin surface, therefore improving symptoms of acne.

Tiny muscles called arrector pili connect hair follicles to the connective tissue layer of your skin, and sebum production requires these little muscles to contract. When neurotoxin (a muscle paralytic) is injected into the surrounding tissues, it paralyzes the ability of the arrector pili to contract, thereby inhibiting oil production. Recent studies have shown that both intradermal and intramuscular injection of neurotoxin are effective in reducing sebum.

If you suffer from chronic acne, I always recommend consulting with your local dermatologist for first line treatment. There are different treatment options that target acne from various angles. Topical retinoids, antibiotics, lasers, and light facial peels are some examples of effective treatment modalities. While Botox/Dysport are not considered conventional treatments for acne, there is growing evidence that it can improve some of your symptoms. Next time you come in for your Botox/Dysport appointment look for the added benefit of improving some of those pesky pimples!