Among the domestic analogues of imported Botox, the drug Relatox should be highlighted, reviews of which are in most cases positive.
Although the product appeared not so long ago, it is already in great demand. Like its predecessor, it contains botulinum toxin.
After injection into muscle tissue, it blocks neuroreceptors and the transmission of motor impulses, which results in the effect of smoothing wrinkles and rejuvenation.
Relatox - description
The drug is available in bottles with white powder for preparing a solution for administration. A group of researchers from the Immunopreparat company participated in its development.
For production, the latest technologies for filtration, lyophilization, and chromatography were used, thanks to which scientists were able to ensure the high quality of the new medicinal product.
Before going on sale, the drug underwent numerous laboratory studies and tests. It was found that Relatox does not have a toxic effect or allergic reactions not only with short-term, but also with long-term use.
The medication is safe for health and well tolerated by patients. Its medicinal effectiveness is on par with imported expensive drugs based on botulinum toxin.
The drug helps stop the aging process and reduce the severity of age-related changes.
It has a prolonged (about six months) muscle relaxant effect, which helps reduce the activity of facial wrinkles and achieve excellent aesthetic results.
According to reviews from clients and doctors of Relatox:
- smoothes the epidermis and eliminates various irregularities;
- softens facial expressions;
- improves appearance.
The drug is effective only against wrinkles caused by active facial expressions (for example, when a person frowns or is surprised). Therefore, it is more often used for aesthetic correction of the upper third of the face.
The effect of the medication does not end there. It was found that the drug helps fight hyperhidrosis, and has also found application in neurology to eliminate blepharospasm and muscle spasticity.
Indications
The drug is prescribed in the cases listed below.
INDICATIONS
- horizontal wrinkles on the forehead;
- creases in the area between the eyebrows;
- small wrinkles around the eyes;
- folds near the back of the nose, lips;
- increased sweating in the armpits, palms, feet;
- blepharospasm;
- muscle spasticity.
How does the procedure work (5 stages)
The procedure itself takes place in the following sequence:
- First, the specialist cleans the face of impurities and treats the problem area with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection.
- Then he makes markings that will help with injections. In some cases, for patients with a low pain threshold, an anesthetic cream is applied to the skin.
- After determining the scheme, the specialist prepares a solution for injection: dilutes the powder with saline and draws it into a syringe.
- Then the drug is injected into the previously designated point. In this case, the patient should work his facial muscles (raise his eyebrows, frown, etc.) to make it easier for the specialist to introduce the solution into the desired area.
- Upon completion of the last injection, the epidermis is treated with an antiseptic. To minimize the likelihood of swelling, apply a cool compress to the face for bruises.
Contraindications
Limitations and negative consequences when using Relatox are typical of those characteristic of other drugs with botulinum toxin. It is necessary to refuse injections if contraindications are observed:
- poor health (exacerbation of chronic diseases, occurrence of systemic diseases);
- pregnancy, lactation;
- diseases of the blood, neuromuscular system;
- endocrine disorders;
- somatic disorders;
- allergy to the components of the solution.
It is not advisable to carry out the procedure during menstruation or during periods of stress. During a preliminary conversation with a cosmetologist, you need to focus on your state of health, medications taken, and lifestyle. Based on this data, the doctor makes a decision about the possibility of carrying out the procedure.
Possible risks
Immediately after the injection, swelling and redness of the skin in the area where the drug was administered is possible. This is a normal tissue reaction.
Complications in most cases are the result of a cosmetologist’s mistake and the introduction of an incorrect dosage of the drug.
Therefore, the procedure should be performed by an experienced specialist with higher medical education. He must know the technique and safe areas of the face.
If administered incorrectly, it can hurt nerve endings or provoke:
- asymmetry of eyebrows or eyes;
- violation of eyelid closure;
- articulation disorder;
- difficulty eating.
But after 4-6 months. the effect of the procedure is reduced, so these areas of the face return to their previous position.
If the patient has hypersensitivity to the active ingredient, then after the injection negative reactions from the immune system and the development of allergies are possible:
- difficulty breathing, dry cough;
- redness, swelling of the face;
- skin rashes;
- lacrimation.
Based on customer reviews on various forums on social media, Relatox can cause headaches.
Most often this occurs when contraindications are ignored, and also if the patient takes alcohol after the procedure.
The cosmetologist must warn that alcohol is limited 1-2 weeks before and 2-3 weeks after the procedure.
Possible complications
The human body can respond negatively to any drug administered, Relatox is no exception. Although, complications after using the Russian drug occur less frequently in comparison with the imported analogue.
Typically, the consequences are as follows:
- skin injuries , bruises;
- general malaise (lasts no more than 1 week and occurs with incorrectly selected doses);
- severe headaches (go away on their own during the first day of rehabilitation);
- disturbances in facial activity (occurs due to overdose);
- swelling and lacrimation (these reactions occur in rare cases and depend entirely on the individual characteristics of the patient).
Let's consider for comparison the complications that can arise after Botox injections:
- allergic manifestations;
- nausea and vomiting;
- headache;
- impaired sensitivity of the skin;
- problems with breathing and swallowing food;
- general and muscle weakness;
- skin ptosis;
- facial asymmetry;
- deviation of the visual axis of the eye;
- mask effect (smoothed folds and lack of facial expressions).
Question answer
As a rule, the result does not appear immediately. The drug begins to act 5-7 days after the procedure. The active component is evenly distributed in the tissues and after about 2 weeks the patient receives the expected cosmetic result.
Judging by the results of laboratory tests and numerous reviews of cosmetologists about the drug Relatox, the medication is not addictive. Efficiency is maintained with each subsequent injection.
The procedure must take place in a cosmetology salon. Doing it at home is unacceptable. Since it is impossible to ensure complete sterility in such conditions.
General characteristics of the drug
Relatox is the only Russian-made drug based on botulinum toxin type A. The manufacturer is FSUE NPO Microgen. The substance is classified as a new generation of botulinum toxins. The Russian analogue of Botox has a slightly modified composition.
The substance contains:
- botulinum toxin with low molecular weight (150 kDa);
- gelatin (6 mg);
- maltose (12 mg).
The composition, unlike the classic version of Botox, does not contain albumin, which reduces the development of allergic reactions. Gelatin and maltose provide mild stabilization of the main active ingredient. The drug is tolerated more successfully than its analogues and is less likely to cause adverse reactions. A feature of Russian Botox is pain during injection.
The small mass of the botulinum toxin molecule determines the ability to diffuse. This property allows you to cover a large area with a single injection. In the inept hands of the performer, this results in negative consequences. The small molecular weight of botulinum toxin guarantees rapid action. The effect of the injections is noticeable after half an hour. After 3–7 days, the patient receives a full result from the botulinum toxin injection procedure.
The drug is available in bottles of 50 (100) units. The substance is in powder form. The substance requires dilution with saline solution. The liquid form of botulinum toxin is administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly. The drug is sterile, non-toxic, and can be stored in a sealed (dry) condition at a temperature of 2–8°C for up to 2 years. All basic information about the drug is presented on the company’s official website.
Common Myths
There are some myths about this drug:
- “Stiff” face after the procedure. The active ingredient was identified a long time ago and experts have already learned how to work with it and choose the right dosage. After the injection, the face is not immobilized, but its excessive facial expressions, which stretch the epidermis and lead to the formation of wrinkles, are limited.
- The drug fills wrinkles. Relatox affects the cause of their formation (muscle mobility), i.e. it relaxes muscle tissue, but does not fill skin folds. Therefore, if there are static wrinkles on the face (which are very visible even without facial expressions), then the medication will be powerless.
- Relatox works on everyone. There are people with a lack of sensitivity to the active ingredient. In this case, the result of the injection is either absent or weakly expressed.
- The drug is indicated after 50 years. The medication has no age restrictions (except for childhood). Its main task is to reduce the increased activity of the facial muscles, so it can be used by both young girls and older ladies.
- When used regularly, botulinum toxin is harmful to health. If the patient performs procedures no more than 1 r. at 3 months and in accordance with the recommended dosages, the active component will not cause any negative effects. Botulinum toxin is a protein that disrupts the transmission of impulses from the nerve ending to the muscle, causing its paralysis. Naturally, it requires the correct dosage of administration. In cosmetology, it is so small that it can only relax the muscles in the injection area and nothing more.
Post-procedure period (5 tips)
After the injection, the patient can return to their normal lifestyle. But you should follow several recommendations. Prohibited:
- Lie down within 3-4 hours after the injection.
- Wash with hot water and perform other hot water procedures until the skin is completely healed, as this can cause swelling.
- Engage in intense physical activity.
- Use decorative and abrasive cosmetics for the first 5-7 days.
- Drink alcohol for the first 2-3 weeks.
In order for the drug to be distributed faster in the skin, active facial expressions are recommended for the first few hours after the injection.
To prevent inflammatory processes, you should treat the skin with antiseptics daily (for 2 weeks).
To speed up the healing process, apply creams based on dexpanthenol, for example, bepanthen. For swelling, apply cold compresses.
Recommendations for choosing a specialist
It is very important that the procedure is performed by a qualified specialist, since correctly selected injection points and dosage are the key to a successful result.
Therefore, saving on choosing a clinic and cosmetologist is not the best idea. The patient risks being left with a damaged face for the coming months.
To find a real professional, you should read customer reviews about the cosmetologist and his work:
- what dosage of Relatox the specialist chose;
- progress of the procedure;
- results after it;
- doctor's attitude towards patient, etc.
You can find them on the Internet on various forums, social networks, blogs.
You should pay attention to the clinic. If a medical institution or beauty salon values its reputation, then the environment will contribute to a comfortable stay for visitors.
Don't be shy about asking awkward questions. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the specialist’s documents confirming his qualifications. This simple action will help prevent various post-procedure complications.
Relatox: customer reviews
VALENTINA, 47 YEARS OLD, RYAZAN:
“I’ve already had Botox injections before, and it’s not cheap.
A new drug based on botulinum toxin was recently delivered to my favorite salon. Before deciding on a procedure using Relatox, which has a low price, I read a lot of customer reviews and looked at the photos.
The cosmetologist convinced me to try a new drug. The result is the same as with Botox.”
ANASTASIA, 28 YEARS OLD, SOCHI:
“Because of my facial expressions, I developed creases between my eyebrows. After Relatox, I forgot that they existed.”
OLGA, 35 YEARS OLD, NIZHNY NOVGOROD:
“Relatox has good reviews on the forums. I met several negative ones, but the girls carried out the procedure at home, so I don’t think it’s worth blaming the drug here. I gave myself an injection 2 months ago. I’m very pleased.”
KSENIA, 41 YEARS OLD, MOSCOW:
“I visited several cosmetology centers to find out reviews about Relatox, which has a low price, personally from cosmetologists.
Some specialists have not yet heard about this new product, but those who are familiar with the drug actively use it in their practice. They didn't say anything bad to me.
It, like Botox, has the same contraindications and side effects. I performed one procedure on my forehead. I won’t overpay anymore, I’m completely satisfied with the result.”
Prices
The drug Relatox, like its imported analogues, is prohibited for free sale. This means that it will be impossible to purchase it at a pharmacy kiosk or online store.
The drug is used exclusively in specialized clinics, entrusting it to the hands of qualified and experienced cosmetologists.
The final price for the procedure will depend on the place of residence, the prestige of the medical institution, the doctor’s share and the complexity of the problem.
Since the cost of the Russian drug differs significantly from similar foreign products, the price for the procedure will be cheaper.
Let's compare the prices for both drugs and procedures with their use using the tables as an example.
Domestic drug
Name | Price in rubles |
Relatox drug | 250 ─ 300 |
Treatment of hyperhidrosis | 25 000 ─ 32 000 |
Elimination of wrinkles | 15 000- 18 000 |
Foreign analogue
Name | Price in rubles |
Botox drug | 350 ─ 500 |
Treatment of hyperhidrosis | 30 000 ─ 36 000 |
Smoothing out wrinkles | 22 000 ─ 25 000 |
Find out why Relatox is called Russian Botox from the video.
Expert opinion
- Cosmetologist
- Surgeon
Michelle Ellern
practicing cosmetologist-dermatologist
I consider Relatox to be a promising drug for use in cosmetology. This is the first Russian botulinum toxin, which, like Botox, provides a pronounced muscle relaxant effect. But it costs an order of magnitude cheaper. I’ve been using it in my practice recently, and I haven’t noticed any differences from the expensive analogue.
Theda Contis
plastic surgeon
This drug was patented more than 7 years ago. It began to be sold and used in 2014. The safety of the product has been proven by research. But remember that this is a serious drug! Go to good clinics for the procedure. Many people wonder how it differs from Botox. There are no obvious differences. The only thing that can be noted is that during the administration of Relatox the pain is stronger. The fact is that this product has shifted acidity levels. But its price is much lower!
https://youtu.be/JMMxDT3L7AU
As you can see, the reviews about Relatox are positive, people speak well of this drug. But before using it, you should discuss all the details with a cosmetologist. Choose an excellent specialist, as the further result depends on him.
Comparison of popular botulinum toxins
Most patients wonder which drug to choose for injection. Doctors recommend starting your acquaintance with botulinum toxin with classic Botox. They switch to Relatox more often because of the attractive price. There are no significant differences in potency, dosage, or duration of effect.
Many people notice that the domestic toxin is easier to tolerate and less likely to cause unexpected reactions. A significant disadvantage of Russian Botox is the pain of injection.
When compared with Xeomin, they say that the effect of the foreign version is milder, the product does not require special storage conditions. The domestic drug is produced in small doses in original packaging. Find bottles of Xeomin (Botox, Dysport) 50 units each. it won't work.
In terms of price, Relatox compares favorably with foreign analogues. The cheaper Dysport in fact turns out to be equal in cost to Botox, since it requires a larger quantitative injection. Relatox is also characterized by the rapidity of obtaining a noticeable effect. For some this is an important indicator.