Does Botox® Help Acne?

Author

Dr. Stephen Cosentino

You already know that Botox® can temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the face and neck. You might also know that Botox can help treat certain medical conditions, such as chronic migraine, excessive sweating, and muscle spasms.

You might have heard that Botox has other uses — and unintended but welcome side benefits. Some of these are overstated, but others are very real.

Today, we’re answering a common question about Botox’s side benefits: Does Botox help acne? Read on to find out.

Does Botox Help Acne?

Botox injections can clear up ongoing acne breakouts and temporarily prevent new ones from occurring.

Blocking Acetylcholine Production

This happens because the active ingredient in Botox, botulinum toxin type A, temporarily blocks the production of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine.

Acetylcholine is produced in the dermis (a layer of skin) and plays an important role in the body’s natural oil (or sebum) production. Lower levels of acetylcholine in the dermis correspond with lower activity in the sebaceous glands, which actually produce the oil.

Sebum and Acne: A Complicated Relationship

Why does this matter? Because while sebum doesn’t “cause” acne, higher amounts of oil in the skin (and especially in the skin’s pores) create favorable conditions for acne development and full-fledged acne outbreaks. Acne tends to develop when the skin’s pores become clogged, preventing drainage of bacteria-logged fluid — which in turn causes pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.

Better Complexion With Botox?

Relatedly, Botox can temporarily “downshift” naturally oily skin into a more balanced state. This not only lessens the likelihood of new acne outbreaks but may subjectively enhance the skin’s complexion.

These effects tend to be localized near the Botox injection site. If you’re getting Botox to correct forehead wrinkles, you’ll see the biggest difference in acne levels and overall complexion on your forehead. Likewise for crow’s feet (around the eyes) and platysmal bands (around the neck).

Should You Get Botox If You Have Acne?

You should always consult with your doctor before getting any medical procedure, including Botox. And if you do get Botox, you should work with a board-certified injector who has completed an accredited, comprehensive Botox training course.

That said, an active acne outbreak is not a specific contraindication for Botox. In large part because the risks appear not to be any greater, it’s increasingly common (although still rare) to get Botox for the primary purpose of treating acne. However, this is still considered an off-label use for Botox, as Botox isn’t FDA-approved to treat acne and there are many more effective treatments for the condition.

This brings us back to the fact that Botox’s ability to treat acne is best seen as a side benefit of the procedure rather than a reason to get it in and of itself. Your skin may be clearer for a few months after your Botox procedure, which could save you some time and money on topical acne treatments and face wash during that time.