Meso-Tox: The Skin-Smoothing Effect of Shallow Botulinum Toxin

When it comes to reducing or softening unwanted wrinkles, botulinum toxin is usually the first treatment that comes to mind. Conventionally injected into the facial muscle, this neurotoxin temporarily paralyzes the muscles, preventing them from contracting or forming wrinkles. This then results in smoother skin and a more energized appearance. 

But did you know that it can also be injected more shallowly to refine texture, minimize pores, reduce sebum, and create a “glass-skin” effect? This procedure, called Meso-Tox, involves microneedling and injecting small amounts of diluted botulinum toxin into the superficial layers of the skin. It can give you smoother, brighter, and healthier-looking skin, without the frozen look.

What’s with shallow botulinum toxin?

When injected into the muscles, botulinum toxin blocks the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that sends signals from nerves to muscles, causing them to contract. When injected shallowly or intradermally, however, it targets the skin’s superficial layers and preserves muscle function.

So instead of weakening the muscles, it targets the oil glands, sweat glands, and superficial muscles. It offers an antiperspirant effect, which can reduce sweat gland activity, resulting in decreased facial sweating. It also improves enlarged pores and minimizes the appearance of wrinkles while maintaining a natural look.

What’s involved in Meso-Tox?

Meso-Tox at Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore combines microneedling via Dermapen 4 and small doses of botulinum toxin with MG-Collection serum.

Dermapen 4 microneedling – is an automated skin needling device that can vertically pierce the skin with 1920 holes per second. It creates fine-fractional channels and micro-injuries, which facilitate faster wound healing and help stimulate new collagen. Benefits include:

• Provides skin renewal
• Ignites collagen and elastin
• Can treat acne scars and other skin imperfections 
• Enhances absorption of skincare products
• Has Meso-Glide or MG-Collection serums, specifically designed for microneedling

Botulinum toxin – is an anti-wrinkle treatment for forehead lines, frown lines, crow’s feet, and platysma (neck) bands. In Meso-Tox, it is used alongside MG serum as a glide for skin-needling. This formula is infused into the skin’s top layers, targeting areas with excessive sweating or treating wrinkles without paralyzing the muscles. Benefits of using diluted botulinum toxin intradermally:

• Reduces oil production or facial sweating
• Smooths skin texture
• Improves pore size
• Creates a subtle lifting effect for a tighter skin appearance
• Helps reduce redness and inflammation
• Improves overall skin texture and elasticity 

What can you expect with Meso-Tox? 

In this procedure, botulinum toxin is not used for erasing wrinkles, but for improving overall skin quality. This means that you won’t have to worry about not being able to move your face or make facial expressions. Keep in mind, however, that even with using this neurotoxin for wrinkles, looking frozen or plastic is avoidable when administered the right way and in proper or conservative dosage. 

Combining botulinum Toxin and Dermapen microneedling can improve dull skin and signs of aging. It can give you a more rejuvenated appearance by helping address different skin concerns, including:

• Enlarged pores
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Dull complexion
• Uneven skin tone and texture
• Mild skin laxity

The results last between three and four months, but repeat treatments can help maintain them. Patients of all skin types and complexions can turn to Meso-Tox, but it is not recommended for pregnant/breastfeeding women or those who have wounds or infections in the treatment area. Benefits include:

• Reduced pore size
• Less oil or sebum production
• Improved wrinkle appearance
• Tightened skin
• “Glass”-like glowing skin

There is minimal to no downtime and a few temporary side effects. These include redness, dryness, tightness, and sensitivity to light. A consultation with an aesthetic doctor can help you find out if Meso-Tox is right for you and learn more about the things you can expect from the procedure.

Schedule a consultation 

If you’re considering Meso-Tox or other non-surgical treatments for smoother, younger-looking skin, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our medical aesthetic clinic in Singapore offers customized treatments based on your unique needs and goals. To learn more about Meso-Tox and other combination treatments, call us at +65 6801 4000 for a consultation.