Botox injections are currently among the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world. It is well-known for its ability to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and crow’s feet in order to promote a more youthful appearance. One of the first drawbacks that come to mind, however, is the fact that Botox is applied via a needle which is injected into the face and around the eyes. Fortunately, a topical Botox is on its way to doctor’s offices that will make the procedure easier for all.

Revance’s RT001

RT001 is a gel created by Revance Therapeutics that is essentially a topical form of Botox. The idea behind the product is to create a formula that has skin-smoothing properties that are similarly strong to Botox’s without needing to be injected into the skin. Once released, people wanting to undergo the procedure will make an appointment with their physician, who will apply the RT001 to their face and leave it there for a period of time. They will then remove it with a special tool designed to remove the gel from skin. RT001 is still a drug, in the same way that Botox is, so it will not be available in stores or via prescription – it will still need to be administered by a medical professional.

Testing and Availability

RT001 has been in clinical trials and various testing grounds since its creation several years ago. So far, it has been used in several clinical trials where it was tested on hundreds of people and resulted in success for the majority of them. The patients in the trial found themselves enjoying smoother skin, less wrinkles and fewer crow’s feet. The administering physicians found that RT001 was easier to apply than Botox because it was easier to apply to specific areas, and because it was more effective on areas that normally required multiple shots of Botox. As the product enters phase 3 of FDA testing, it is estimated that it will be made available in late 2014 or in the early part of 2015.

The Advantages and Uses

The first advantage of using RT001 over Botox is immediately clear: it is a gel that does not require an injection, and does not require multiple applications. For example, individuals using Botox to treat hyperhidrosis often means needing 60 punctures to administer the Botox 30 times on each underarm. RT001, on the other hand, only needs to be applied once on each side for far less painful results. RT001 also does not result in a “frozen face” after treatment, unlike its injection-based counterpart. Perhaps the only drawback to using RT001 over Botox is that because it is a gel, it cannot penetrate areas on the body with particularly thick skin, such as in the feet or hands.

It is estimated that two of the biggest reasons individuals avoid Botox procedures are that they have a needle phobia and that they don’t want their facial muscles to freeze. RT001 could potentially fix both of those problems as a topical Botox that provides the same service with far less discomfort. More information about the procedure and trials can be read about at http://huffingtonpost.ca/2012/02/12/revance-botox_n_1204310.html.

Image Source: Flickr/CreativeCommons/Shawn Campbell


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Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel


Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel

With special expertise in all aspects of facial plastic surgery, and a particular skill for revision surgery, it’s clear why Dr. Spiegel is one of the most celebrated facial plastic surgeons in the world. If you are seeking the best possible results, or have a uniquely challenging problem, you’ve found the right doctor.

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Dr. Onir L. Spiegel


Dr. Onir L. Spiegel

Dr. Onir (pronounced “oh-near”) has years of experience in facial aesthetics and treats some of the most recognizable and famous faces. Dr. Onir started her career in oral health, earning doctorate degrees from both New York University and Boston University. She has been the recipient of numerous awards for her cutting-edge medical research as well as her technical skills in dentistry.

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Dr. Jacob Tower


Dr. Jacob Tower

A board-certified specialist in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Jacob Tower brings a thoughtful approach and an artistic eye to New England’s premier plastic surgery practice, The Spiegel Center in Newton, Massachusetts. In addition to being an in-demand surgeon, Dr. Tower is an assistant professor at the Boston University School of Medicine, a sought-after lecturer, and an expert in facial plastic surgery.

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