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Neurotoxins at
California LASIK & Eye

BOTOX® & Xeomin® Neurotoxin Treatments in Sacramento, Roseville & Folsom

Beautiful woman modeling fillers and Neurotoxins

Understanding Neurotoxins: BOTOX vs. Xeomin

Neurotoxins are FDA-approved injectable treatments that temporarily relax specific facial muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkles. Both BOTOX and Xeomin contain botulinum toxin type A, but they differ in their formulation and purification process.

BOTOX Cosmetic: The Gold Standard

BOTOX remains the most widely recognized neurotoxin, with over 20 years of FDA approval for cosmetic use. This proven treatment effectively reduces the appearance of crow’s feet, forehead lines, and frown lines by blocking nerve signals to targeted muscles.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, BOTOX was the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedure in 2024, with over 9.8 million treatments performed.1

Xeomin: The “Naked” Neurotoxin

Xeomin, often called the “naked neurotoxin,” undergoes an additional purification process that removes accessory proteins found in other formulations. According to clinical studies published in the journal Archives of Plastic Surgery, this refined approach may reduce the risk of developing antibodies that could diminish treatment effectiveness over time.2

“My product development background gives me unique knowledge into how active ingredients work,” explains Kristen. “This knowledge allows me to help patients choose the most appropriate neurotoxin for their individual needs and treatment history.”

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Treatment Areas & Applications

Our neurotoxin treatments effectively address multiple areas of facial aging:

female patient getting neurotoxin injection on forehead

Upper Face Rejuvenation

  • Forehead Lines: Horizontal lines that develop from repeated eyebrow elevation
  • Frown Lines: Vertical lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines)
  • Crow’s Feet: Fine lines radiating from the outer corners of the eyes

Advanced Applications

  • Brow Lift: Subtle elevation of the eyebrow position for a more youthful appearance
  • Lip Flip: Enhancement of the upper lip’s appearance without adding volume
  • Facial Balancing: Comprehensive approach to harmonious facial proportions
  • Masseter Reduction: Jaw slimming and TMJ symptom relief
  • Platysmal Band Treatment: Softens vertical neck bands and refines the jawline
  • DAO Relaxation: Lifts the corners of the mouth by reducing downward pull from the depressor anguli oris muscles
  • Chin Smoothing: Treats the mentalis muscle to minimize dimpling or “orange peel” texture
woman touching her face after her aesthetic treatments
woman getting lip filler injection

The Science Behind Neurotoxin Treatments

Neurotoxins work by temporarily blocking acetylcholine release at neuromuscular junctions. According to research from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, this mechanism allows targeted muscle relaxation while preserving natural facial expressions when administered by skilled practitioners.3

The treatment process involves precise injections using ultra-fine needles, typically completed within 10-15 minutes. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return to normal activities immediately following treatment.

Kristen’s Specialized Approach

“My oncology background taught me the importance of precision and patient safety,” notes Kristen. “I apply the same meticulous attention to detail in aesthetic treatments, carefully mapping each patient’s facial anatomy and muscle patterns before creating a customized injection plan.”

Patient Success Stories and Testimonials

Verified Patient Reviews:

“Kristen is such a gem, she is so kind, caring, and an absolute pro who loves what she does. I fully trust her with my face. I love her as a person and as a professional. I’ve recommended her to everyone I know, and drive from Reno to see her.”
– Alix L., Verified Patient

“Great experience getting Xeomin and Cheek filler done by Kristen! She does beautiful work! The entire staff at California LASIK & Eye are wonderful and I’ll definitely be going back for more treatments and services.”
– Taylor U., Verified Patient

“Kristin is an amazing injector! I love her work. She’s so honest and professional. She takes a lot of time explaining what she’s going to do and what is the possible side effect of any injection. She always welcomes me with her beautiful smile.” – Claudine K., Verified Patient

What to Expect: Timeline and Results

Comprehensive Consultation Process

Every neurotoxin treatment begins with a thorough consultation where Kristen assesses your facial anatomy, discusses your aesthetic goals, and reviews your medical history. This patient-centered approach ensures safe, effective treatments tailored to your individual needs.

Treatment Day Experience

  • Pre-treatment: Facial mapping and injection site marking
  • Procedure: 10-15 minutes using ultra-fine needles
  • Post-treatment: Immediate aftercare instructions and follow-up scheduling

Results Timeline

  • Initial effects: 3-5 days post-treatment
  • Full results: 10-14 days
  • Duration: 3-4 months on average
  • Maintenance: Regular treatments every 3-4 months for optimal results
Wrinkle reduction at California LASIK and Eye

Prejuvenation: The Preventative Approach

The concept of prejuvenation represents a shift toward preventative aesthetic care. Rather than waiting for deep lines to form, younger patients in their late twenties and early thirties are increasingly choosing neurotoxin treatments to prevent dynamic wrinkles from becoming permanent static lines.

Research published in Dermatologic Surgery suggests that early intervention with neurotoxins can significantly reduce the formation of permanent facial lines over time.4

“Prejuvenation is about maintaining your natural beauty for longer,” explains Kristen. “By starting treatments before deep lines set in, we can preserve facial mobility while preventing the aging process from accelerating.”

Safety Profile and Risk Management

Neurotoxin treatments have an excellent safety record when administered by qualified medical professionals. Serious adverse events are rare when treatments are performed by licensed practitioners.

Common Side Effects (Temporary)

  • Mild bruising or swelling at injection sites (occurs in approximately 10-15% of patients)
  • Mild headache (typically resolves within 24-48 hours, reported in 5-10% of cases)
  • Temporary muscle weakness in treated areas (expected therapeutic effect)

Rare but Serious Side Effects

  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing (extremely rare, less than 0.1% of cases)
  • Allergic reactions (rare, less than 1% of patients)
  • Unintended muscle weakness in adjacent areas

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Neuromuscular disorders (myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome)
  • Allergies to botulinum toxin or formulation components
  • Active skin infections at treatment sites
  • Certain medications that affect neuromuscular transmission

Our Safety Protocols

  • Comprehensive medical history review before any treatment
  • Detailed informed consent process with risk discussion
  • Emergency protocols and immediate access to medical supervision
  • Follow-up care and monitoring for all procedures
  • Collaboration with Dr. Bradley Barnett for complex cases

Combining Neurotoxins with Other Treatments

Neurotoxin treatments often work synergistically with other aesthetic procedures to achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation:

Complementary Treatments Available

 

Dermal Fillers:
Address volume loss while neurotoxins treat dynamic wrinkles

Laser Skin Resurfacing:
Improve skin texture and tone

Microneedling:
Enhance overall skin quality and collagen production

IPL Therapy:
Target pigmentation and vascular concerns

Skinvive:
Deep hydration and skin quality improvement

This multi-modal approach allows for customized treatment plans that address individual aging concerns while maintaining natural facial harmony.

Why Choose California LASIK & Eye for Dermal Fillers

Unique Qualifications

Kristen’s combination of Johns Hopkins medical training, extensive clinical experience, and product development expertise provides patients with:

  • Deep understanding of treatment mechanisms at the molecular level
  • Precision injection techniques honed through years of medical practice
  • Comprehensive approach to facial aesthetics and patient safety
  • Ongoing education and training in the latest aesthetic techniques
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California LASIK & Eye Team

Patient-Centered Philosophy

Our approach prioritizes patient education and empowerment. We believe in transparent communication about realistic expectations, potential risks, and alternative treatment options.

“Sometimes that means recommending treatments I don’t offer, like surgical procedures, because it’s what’s best for the patient,” says Kristen. “Building trust is always my first priority.”

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in-house tech room

Comprehensive Care Integration

As part of California LASIK & Eye, our aesthetic services integrate seamlessly with comprehensive eye care, allowing for holistic facial rejuvenation that considers the entire periorbital area.

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Our Fillers and Neurotoxins location

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find the best neurotoxin treatments near me in Sacramento, Roseville, or Folsom?

California LASIK & Eye offers comprehensive neurotoxin treatments with Kristen Barnett, NP-C, serving patients throughout Sacramento, Roseville, Folsom, and Davis. Our convenient location, Johns Hopkins-trained expertise, and patient-centered approach make us the preferred choice for natural-looking facial rejuvenation in the greater Sacramento area.

Can I combine neurotoxin treatments with other aesthetic procedures?

Yes, neurotoxin treatments often work beautifully in combination with dermal fillers, laser treatments, microneedling, and IPL therapy. During your consultation, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that may include multiple modalities to achieve your aesthetic goals while maintaining natural-looking results.

How do I choose between BOTOX and Xeomin?

Both BOTOX and Xeomin are excellent neurotoxin options with similar efficacy profiles. The choice often depends on individual factors such as previous treatment history, specific aesthetic goals, and personal preferences. Kristen’s product development background allows her to provide detailed guidance on the molecular differences and help you make an informed decision.

What makes prejuvenation different from traditional neurotoxin treatments?

Prejuvenation focuses on preventing wrinkles before they become deeply etched into the skin, typically starting in the late twenties or early thirties. This proactive approach uses smaller amounts of neurotoxin to maintain muscle movement while preventing the formation of permanent lines, resulting in more natural-looking long-term results.

Kristen Barnett head shot

Kristen Barnett Answers Common Neurotoxin Questions!

Schedule Your Neurotoxin Consultation

Ready to discover how BOTOX or Xeomin can enhance your natural beauty? Contact California LASIK & Eye today to schedule your personalized consultation with Kristen Barnett, NP-C.

California LASIK & Eye
1111 Exposition Blvd, Suite 200
Sacramento, CA 95815
Phone: (916) 823-9758

Last Updated: October 1, 2025 Medically Reviewed by Bradley Barnett, M.D., Ph.D., Ophthalmologist

When it comes to achieving natural-looking facial rejuvenation in Sacramento, Roseville, and Folsom, neurotoxin treatments like BOTOX® and Xeomin offer a proven path to smoother, more youthful skin. At California LASIK & Eye, Kristen Barnett, NP-C, combines her Johns Hopkins medical training with innovative aesthetic techniques to deliver personalized neurotoxin treatments that enhance your natural beauty while maintaining facial harmony.

With over 13 years of clinical experience and having treated tens of thousands of patients across multiple specialties, Kristen brings a unique perspective to aesthetic medicine. Her background spans from oncology nursing at The Johns Hopkins Hospital to product development with Curology, giving her unparalleled insight into both patient care and treatment science.

“I believe in the power of prejuvenation—starting neurotoxin treatments early to prevent deep lines from forming rather than just treating them after they appear,” explains Kristen. “This proactive approach helps my patients maintain their natural expressions while achieving the smooth, refreshed look they desire.”

Meet Kristen Barnett, NP-C: Your Neurotoxin Specialist

Clinical Excellence Rooted in Johns Hopkins Training

Kristen’s journey to aesthetic medicine began with rigorous medical training at The Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, where she earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2011) and Master of Science in Adult and Gerontology Primary Care (2013). Her academic excellence was recognized through multiple honors, including Phi Beta Kappa and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.

Extensive Clinical Experience

Johns Hopkins Hospital Experience (2011-2018):

  • Staff Nurse and Nurse Practitioner in Gynecologic Oncology
  • Perioperative Optimization Specialist for complex surgical cases
  • Provided ongoing survivorship care to cancer patients after they completed their cancer treatments.
  • Served as sub-investigator for gynecologic oncology research

Product Development Expertise (2018-2024):

  • Nurse Practitioner and Product Development Lead at Curology
  • Created prescription formulations for hair loss and rosacea treatment
  • Developed over-the-counter skincare products sold in Target, Walmart, CVS, and Amazon
  • Treated tens of thousands of patients via telemedicine for various dermatologic conditions

Current Practice (2022-Present):

  • Director of Medical Aesthetics at California LASIK & Eye
  • Over 4 years of dedicated aesthetic practice
  • Specializes in neurotoxins, dermal fillers, laser treatments, and comprehensive facial rejuvenation
Professional Credentials and Certifications
Active Licenses and Certifications:
  • California Nurse Practitioner License: NP95008761
  • California Registered Nurse License: 95158076
  • California Nurse Practitioner Furnishing Number: NPF95008761
  • American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner AG0214019
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) – Current certification
Advanced Training and Certifications
    • Neurotoxin Training: Product-specific certification in BOTOX and Xeomin administration
    • Dermal Filler Expertise: Advanced training in Revanesse Versa, Belotero, and Radiesse injection techniques
  • Manufacturer Training Programs:
      • Merz Aesthetics training (Xeomin, Belotero, Radiesse)
      • Prollenium Medical Technologies certification
  • Laser Technology Certifications:
    • ResurFX fractional laser certification
    • Mixto CO2 laser training
    • OptiLight IPL system certification
  • Continuing Education: Ongoing participation in aesthetic medicine workshops and advanced injection technique courses

Medical Disclaimer and Editorial Review

This content has been medically reviewed by Bradley Barnett, M.D., Ph.D., Ophthalmologist and Co-Founder of California LASIK & Eye. All information is provided for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical consultation. Individual results may vary, and all procedures carry inherent risks that will be discussed during consultation.

Editorial Review Process:

  • Content reviewed by board-certified physician
  • Medical accuracy verified against current literature
  • Patient safety information updated regularly
  • Compliance with medical advertising standards

Risk Information:

All aesthetic procedures carry potential risks including but not limited to bruising, swelling, infection, asymmetry, and unsatisfactory results. Detailed risk discussions are provided during consultation, and comprehensive informed consent is obtained before any treatment.

Professional Contact Information:

Kristen Barnett, NP-C
Director of Medical Aesthetics
California LASIK & Eye

Sources

1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2024 Plastic Surgery Statistics. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2024/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2024.pdf. Accessed October 1, 2025.

2 Wee SY, Park ES. Immunogenicity of botulinum toxin. Arch Plast Surg. 2022 Jan;49(1):12-18. doi: 10.5999/aps.2021.00766. Epub 2022 Jan 15. PMID: 35086302; PMCID: PMC8795657. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8795657/. Accessed October 1, 2025.

3 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Botulinum Toxin. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/botulinum-toxin. Accessed October 1, 2025.

4 Hexsel, Doris MD*; Cartier, Hugues MD†; Hedén, Per MD‡; Delmar, Henry MD§; Bergentz, Per MD‡; Camozzato, Fernanda MD*; Siega, Carolina BSc*; Skoglund, Cecilia PhD║; Edwartz, Carolina PhD║; Rees, Diane PhD¶; Kestemont, Philippe MD§. Efficacy, Safety, and Subject Satisfaction After AbobotulinumtoxinA Treatment of Upper Facial Lines. Dermatologic Surgery 44(12):p 1555-1564, December 2018. | DOI: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000001679. Available: https://journals.lww.com/dermatologicsurgery/fulltext/2018/12000/efficacy%2C_safety%2C_and_subject_satisfaction_after.10.aspx. Accessed October 1, 2025.

Before and After Images

Before and After aesthetics patient's eye before and after treatment before and after of a patient with neurotoxin on her mouth patient at Californa LASIK & Eye before and after of lines removed around her mouth Before and After aesthetics before and after of patient with facial fillers woman's eyes after BOTOX Before and After aesthetics