Botox Pioneer Dr. James Alastair Carruthers Dies at Age 79

Dr. James Alastair Carruthers, a pioneer physician in the discovery and evolution of botulinum toxin A, passed away on Monday at age 79. CarruthersCosmetic posted the news of his passing on Instagram.

Carruthers and his wife, Dr. Jean Carruthers, founded the cosmetic benefits of botulinum toxin A and were pivotal players in making Botox a household name worldwide.

Modern Aesthetics editorial board members, along with hundreds of other industry professionals, expressed their condolences in the comment section of the Instagram post. 

“My deepest condolences to you and your family Jean, may you find comfort in the memories of the extraordinary life he lived and all the lives he touched. Sending love and prayers,” Dr. Mara Weinstein wrote. 

“My deepest condolences Jean. Alastair always had the sweetest smile and kindest, wisest words. So many of us are better at our craft because of all he so generously shared with us. Sending you and your family love and prayers,” Dr. Doris Day wrote. 

Following a profound career, Dr. Carruthers retired in 2015. Shortly after he became aware of mobility issues and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Dr. Carruther is said to have taken on the new challenges with grace and determination.