For anyone contemplating a tox-shot to smooth lines, there is good news. The latest offering, known as Relfydess, is generating buzz for its potential to work faster and last longer than existing wrinkle relaxers. Here, style director Louise Hilsz offers up her face for a trial to see if it delivers and how fast. Read on to learn more.
What is Relfydess?
When it comes to cosmetic medicine, it’s Dr Shareen Jacob’s expertise, and the latest fast-acting neurotoxin, Relfydess (pronounced rel-fi-dess), for her is a game-changer. “This new-generation, liquid-based botulinum toxin (like Botox, Xeomin and Dysport) is both fast acting and longer lasting.” Unlike most botulinum toxins, Relfydess comes in liquid form, ready mixed. “This eliminates the need for reconstitution and reduces errors, ensuring consistent dosing,” says Jacob.
So How does it work?
According to Jacob, like other forms of botulinum toxin, Relfydess works in the same way. “It attaches to the nerve endings that supply the muscle, blocking signals from the nerve endings to the muscle fibres, causing the muscles to freeze, which helps the skin remain smooth and unwrinkled.” But, unlike most other botulinum toxins, which can take a few days up to a week, the results are almost instant. “With Relfydess, you will see results within hours. I have seen results in six hours, some notice changes within 24 hours.” But here’s the kicker: With that fast-acting effect, it also offers longevity. “Results last up to six months, compared to the three–to four-month average for Botox and other traditional neurotoxins,” says Dr Jacob.
What’s it like having Relfydess?
The experience is identical to any other toxin injection. Style director Louise Hilsz' appointment begins with a consultation with Dr Shareen Jacob at The Lab in Northcote, Auckland. Frowning and smiling is the best way for Dr Jacob to see where my strongest lines form. The forehead and eye area are marked with a white pencil; like all neurotoxin shots, it’s swift.
"While this is not my first neurotoxic shot, it felt different. The injections felt more painful than other tox products. It wasn’t unbearable, but there was a stronger sting than I’m used to.”
Results and downtime
“There is zero downtime; this is truly a lunchtime procedure, where you can leave the clinic looking exactly as you did when you walked in – no redness, bruising, or swelling. But this is dependent on a skilled injector. I had a slight tingling feeling in my face on the way home, but nothing major,” says Hilsz. It's what happens in the next day or so that marks the real difference. “With most toxin injections, it can take up to a week to feel and see the signs of ‘skin tightening,’ which is the sensation you feel when your muscles start to freeze (similar to the feeling you get with the start of a headache), and two weeks for it to take full effect,” says Hilsz. “Within 12 hours, when I woke up the next day, I saw results, and had less movement, and those results strengthened 48 hours later.”
Dr Shareen Jacob from The Lab in Northcote, Auckland
Relfydess is now available at The Lab Clinic. Book a consultation to learn more. Relfydess® (relabotulinumtoxinA) is a Prescription Medicine. Indications: In adults, for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe dynamic facial lines, including glabellar frown lines and lateral periorbital lines (crow’s feet). Relfydess® has both risks and benefits. Ask your healthcare professional whether Relfydess® is right for you. Further information on the risks and benefits of Relfydess® can be found in the Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) available from the manufacturer, www.medsafe.govt.nz, or from your healthcare professional. Use strictly as directed. If symptoms continue or you experience side effects, consult your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional. Common side effects may include: headache; tenderness, swelling, redness, numbness or bruising at the injection site; dry eyes; heaviness of the eyelids or forehead; facial asymmetry. Serious side effects are rare and may include allergic reactions. Relfydess® is an unfunded medicine and prescription charges may apply. Normal consultation fees may also apply. For further information, please consult your healthcare professional or refer to the Consumer Medicine Information available at www.medsafe.govt.nz.
That can last up to six months.