A recent survey revealed that as the use of botulinum toxin procedures has increased, the number of people suspected of developing resistance has also risen significantly.
The Botulinum Toxin Safe Use Committee under the Korea Risk Management Council announced the results of the "2024 botulinum toxin consumer survey" containing such information on the 27th.
The committee conducted a consumer survey regarding botulinum toxin involving 1,000 women aged 20 to 59 in South Korea over a two-year period from 2023 to 2024. According to the survey results, the percentage of consumers who received procedures more than twice in a year increased slightly from 56% in 2023 to 59% in 2024. The number of those who received procedures on more than two areas at once also rose from 51% to 55% during the same period.
As the use of botulinum toxin has increased, the number of users who have experienced resistance has also risen. Botulinum toxin is composed of neurotoxins and complex proteins. The complex proteins, which are about five times larger than neurotoxins, trigger an immune response, resulting in the phenomenon of reduced effectiveness due to resistance.
Professor Heo Chang-hoon from Bundang Seoul National University Hospital (committee commissioner) noted, "The percentage of consumers who reported experiencing reduced effectiveness increased by about 1% to 75% during this period, and those who suspected the occurrence of resistance also grew by 2% to 38%." He added, "As botulinum toxin procedures are frequently performed at high doses, it is estimated that the number of consumers suspected of resistance is also increasing."
With the increase in resistance-suspected cases, interest among medical professionals and consumers is also growing. Director Park Je-young of Apgujeong Oracle Dermatology (committee commissioner) said, "The rate of individuals receiving guidance on the 'potential for the occurrence of resistance' during consultations increased by about 13%." He emphasized the need for consultations based on past histories regarding appropriate dosage, frequency, and products between medical professionals and patients.
Chairperson Moon Ok-ryun stated, "The survey results indicated a somewhat lacking awareness and effort regarding safe and correct usage methods," and added, "Consumers should undergo sufficient consultations with professionals to ensure wise botulinum toxin procedures."