UV-B irradiation attenuates dermal effects of botulinum toxin A: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

BACKGROUND

Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT/A) is frequently used for cosmetic indications and hyperhidrosis.

OBJECTIVES

We investigated whether UV-B irradiation alleviates the BoNT/A effect on local sudomotor activity.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

In a randomized, double-blinded trial, the anhidrotic areas after BoNT/A (100 mU) injection 48 hours before and 14 days after UV-B irradiation were compared in six healthy volunteers.

RESULTS

UV-B irradiation alleviated BoNT/A effect by approximately 30% (p=.0017). The UV-B-evoked reduction of anhidrotic areas was constant over the observation period of 14 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

When BoNT/A is applied intradermally, excessive exposure to UV-B and sunburn should be reconsidered. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.