Xeomin

Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA)

Class: Neurotoxin, neuromodulator

Approved Cosmetic Uses: Xeomin is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to improve moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows (also known as glabellar lines) in adults. Xeomin is manufactured by Merz Pharmaceuticals.

Mode of Action: The active ingredient in Xeomin, botulinum toxin type A, paralyzes the muscles that cause wrinkles.

Courtesy of AAFPRS

Results: The wrinkle-smoothing results seen with Xeomin typically last up to six months. Results are visible within one week.

Side effects: Xeomin side effects or injection complications may include bleeding or bruising. Allergic reactions may also occur with Xeomin.

Like all other botulinum products, Xeomin poses a rare risk for spreading outside of the injection site. If this occurs, life-threatening swallowing and breathing problems may result. Of note, this side effect has not been seen in people receiving neurotoxins for cosmetic reasons.

Other neurotoxins:

  • Botox Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA)
  • Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA)

(Dysport, Xeomin and Botox should not be used interchangeably.)

What sets Xeomin apart from the fray?

The main difference is that Xeomin is "naked." This means that it contains just one ingredient: Botulinum toxin A. There are no additives, making an allergic reaction less probable. It also does not have to be refrigerated.

Injection Pain (1-5 scale, with 5 being the most pain): 2

Your facial plastic surgeon will numb the area first, minimizing any injection pain.


  • Halaas 58x57

    Yael Halaas, MD, FACS

    60 E. 56th Street
    3rd Floor
    New York, NY 10022
    (332) 239-6439


  • P

    Mune Gowda, MD

    3270 West Big Beaver
    Suite 415
    Troy, MI 48084
    248-305-8400


  • P

    Sean Maguire, MD

    Physician's Center for Beauty
    24 Chenoweth Lane
    Louisville, KY 40207
    (866) 774-9105