Exploring the evolving world of toxin treatments — and what it means for your skin.
The Evolving World of Toxin Treatments
If you’ve ever explored facial aesthetics, you’ve likely heard of Botulinum Toxin — most commonly known by its household brand name: Botox.
At Ametrine, we prefer to use the broader term “toxin.” While it might sound a little scientific, it simply refers to the active ingredient used in anti-wrinkle injections, a purified neurotoxin that gently relaxes the facial muscles responsible for expression lines.
Here’s something important to know: Botox is just one brand.
At Ametrine, our preferred option has long been Azzalure, which delivers softer, more natural results and fits beautifully with our treatment philosophy…refreshed, never frozen.
Botulinum toxin has evolved significantly since it was first used over a century ago for medical conditions such as eyelid spasms. It was later approved for aesthetic use in 1990, and since then, innovation has only accelerated.
New formulations like Relfydess represent the next generation of toxins, more refined, more stable, and often more comfortable to experience.
And yes, in true Ametrine fashion, we’ve tested it ourselves…because we only ever recommend what we truly believe in.
A Quick Look at the Main Toxins
These are the key products we’ve used or observed in-clinic, each chosen for its safety, performance, and results.
| Brand | Type | Contains Complexing Proteins? | Onset | Duration | Used at Ametrine? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Azzalure | AbobotulinumtoxinA | Yes | 2–3 days | 3–4 months | ✅ Primary choice |
| Botox | OnabotulinumtoxinA | Yes | 3–5 days | 3–4 months | Previously used |
| Bocouture | IncobotulinumtoxinA | No | 2–3 days | 3–4 months | Occasionally used |
| Alluzience | Liquid OnabotulinumtoxinA | Yes | 24–48 hrs | 5–6 months (claimed) | ✅ Used for quick results |
| Relfydess | PrabotulinumtoxinA | No | 24–48 hrs | Up to 5 months | ✅ Now being trialled |
A few quick definitions:
- Type: Refers to the specific strain of botulinum toxin and whether it’s pre-mixed (like Relfydess and Alluzience) or reconstituted (like Azzalure and Botox).
- Complexing proteins: These can trigger the immune system over time, reducing effectiveness. Protein-free formulas like Bocouture and Relfydess lower that risk.
First Impressions of Relfydess
We were first introduced to Relfydess at a Galderma educational conference in early 2025. As part of their clinical faculty, Dr Bryony often gets early access to new research and development, and this one caught our attention immediately.
Galderma are the same trusted team behind Restylane, Sculptra, and Azzalure, so expectations were high.
After personally trialling Alluzience, which works quickly but can cause a sting during treatment, we were curious to see how Relfydess compared.
The verdict?
✨ Pain score: 3/10 – far gentler than expected.
✨ Onset: fast and smooth.
✨ Early signs: natural, subtle, and soft.
What Makes Relfydess Different
Relfydess stands out for several reasons:
- Ready-to-use formula: It’s pre-mixed, meaning there’s no reconstitution — reducing the risk of human error and ensuring consistent dosing.
- No complexing proteins: This lowers the likelihood of developing resistance over time.
- Native structure preservation: The toxin’s molecular structure remains more stable during production, contributing to its gentle onset and potentially longer-lasting results.
Backed by Clinical Evidence
- READY-1 Trial: 96.3% of participants saw a reduction to mild or no frown lines after 30 days (Hexsel et al., 2021).
- READY-2 Trial: 92% of patients reported satisfaction at one month; 71% maintained it at six months (de Boulle et al., 2022).
RELAX Study: 40% noticed improvement within one day; 60% maintained visible results at 12 weeks (Sundaram et al., 2023).
Why We Still Love Azzalure
Despite these exciting innovations, our trusted Azzalure still holds its place as a clinic favourite.
It’s consistent, comfortable, and supported by years of safety data, a reliable option for clients who know it works beautifully for them.
Think of it as the quiet achiever: dependable, effective, and seamlessly integrated into our treatment plans.
What About Alluzience, Botox & Bocouture?
- Alluzience: Ideal for those wanting fast results – perfect before an event. Slightly higher discomfort, but still effective.
- Botox: The original household name, but offers no unique advantage over newer, refined formulations.
- Bocouture: Great for clients with potential antibody resistance. Still useful, though Relfydess may surpass it in onset and longevity.
So… Would We Switch?
In short – yes, when it makes sense.
At Ametrine, we now offer Relfydess alongside our existing range. It won’t replace Azzalure entirely, but it gives us another tool to tailor results for your skin, your lifestyle, and your comfort.
If you’re someone who wants:
✨ A faster onset
✨ A longer-lasting result
✨ A softer, more comfortable experience
…then Relfydess may be your perfect match.
Our Promise to You
At Ametrine, we only ever bring new products into the clinic after testing and observing real-world results ourselves.
Our toxin range continues to evolve – not because of trends, but because we’re committed to delivering the most effective, comfortable, and natural-looking outcomes for every face we treat.
You can trust that every product we use has been chosen with care, evidence, and you in mind. 🌿
✨ Book a consultation or try our free online assessment to discover which toxin treatment could best support your goals.
