Botulinum toxin has become a popular non-surgical, injectable treatment that can smooth out fine lines and wrinkles. It is a heavily researched ingredient that is one of the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatments, with more than 7 million treatments administered each year.

Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, an anaerobic, gram-positive, spore-forming rod commonly found on plants, in soil, water, and the intestinal tracts of animals. Although categorised as a toxin, when doctors use it correctly and in small doses, it can have various benefits; both cosmetic and medical. As a cosmetic treatment, Botulinum toxin injections can reduce the appearance of skin wrinkles; most commonly used to temporarily relax the facial muscles that cause wrinkles in the forehead and around the eyes. It can also be used as a treatment for various health issues, including eyelid spasms, excessive sweating, and migraines.

It acts by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses to muscles and so paralyzes (relaxes) the muscles.

We have partnered with Dr Olivia de Klerk, and Dr Gideon Alers who will both be administering Botulinum toxin injections on a weekly basis in our treatment room at our Green Point branch. 

Dr Olivia de Klerk is a registered General Practitioner practicing under the Health Professions Counsel of South Africa. After graduating with an MBChB from the University of Cape Town in 2016, Dr de Klerk decided to pursue her passion for both art and science.

In 2021 she became a fellow at the College of Medicines of South Africa after achieving a Diploma in Anaesthesia and is currently completing a 2-year diploma in Advanced Aesthetic Medicine through the Federation of Professional Development, with her graduation coming up in February this year.

Dr de Klerk also completed a fellowship with the Allergan Mentorship Program of Aesthetic Medicine and trained under the highly esteemed Dr Alek Nikolic. She continues to attend regular conferences and workshops to provide her patients with the latest and most up-to-date trends in the industry.

Dr de Klerk strives to deliver personalised and affordable aesthetic treatments using only the highest quality products. Her style is all about enhancing the natural beauty and energy of her patients to allow them to become the best versions of themselves.

Dr Gideon Alers is General Practitioner with a special interest in Aesthetic and Anti-aging medicine. He graduated with an MBChB (Cum Laude) from the University of Pretoria in 2019. He underwent extensive training in Aesthetic Medicine under the guidance of Dr Chris Giezing, an advanced practitioner in the field.

Dr Alers has a special interest in male facial analysis. His approach is to use aesthetic treatments to accentuate the chiseled and defined features unique to the male face.

In male aesthetic medicine, Dr Alers strives to provide treatment outcomes that enhance a masculine appearance but balances it with careful consideration of the natural appearance of a patient.

The results of Botulinum toxin typically last between 3-5 months from the date of injection. Over time the body metabolises the neurotoxin, leading to the slow return of muscle movement in the treatment area.

Botulinum toxin is priced per unit needed. The number of units needed differs for each person and is dependent on what section of the face/body is treated as well as the individual anatomy of the patient.

Our price per unit is R80.

Below is a rough guideline to determine an estimate of cost for the specific area you would want treated.

Frown/Glabella: 12 – 22 units

Crows Feet: 12 – 16 units

Frown: 10 – 20 units

Brow Lift: 2 – 4 units

Gummy Smile: 2- 4 units

Bunny Lines: 4 – 6 units

Bruxism: 40 units

Hyperhidrosis: 100 units

Botulinum toxin is administered quickly with a minimal amount of discomfort during the procedure; the process involves a series of tiny injections that do not require anesthetic or painkillers. The needle is extremely small so it feels like nothing more than a pinprick – other than the injection itself, the procedure is painless. Cotton swabs may be pressed against the injection sites to reduce bleeding (if any) and help prevent bruising. Other than that, there is no recovery time needed and you can go back to a normal day with little to no side effects. 

Yes. Botulinum toxin is 100% legal, safe and FDA approved. This neurotoxin should always be administered by a medical professional who has had the appropriate training and experience to ensure it is both safe and effective.  It is important to note that Botulinum toxin is not recommended for pregnant patients, patients who are breastfeeding or have certain neurological diseases. Dr de Klerk and Dr Alers perform a consultation prior to any treatment.