If you are looking to combat the signs of aging, you do not necessarily have to turn towards invasive procedures such as the traditional face lift. Aside from practicing good skin care habits on a daily basis, Botox and fillers can provide a non-surgical solution for tightening the skin and eliminating wrinkles. With both treatments coming in the form of injections, one of the most common questions about Botox & fillers is, what’s the difference? Although both are anti aging injection treatments, the two can treat different aging signs and have different outcomes.
Botox
Botox procedures consist of botulinum toxin injections that freeze the facial muscles, specifically targeting the ones that cause wrinkles. It is commonly used for wrinkles that only occur when a patient makes certain facial expressions, which might not show when the face is at rest. It can, for example, eliminate lines between the eyebrows caused by frowning, or crow’s feet caused by squinting. Botox is now used medically to treat migraines as well as overactive sweat glands thanks to its years of clinical testing & FDA approval. The only common side effect of Botox is temporary bruising and swelling around the injection sites, which can be covered by makeup. The effects of the procedure are typically visible after 3 – 5 days after injection, and can last anywhere from 3 – 6 months. Other brand names of neuromodulators include Dysport and Xeomin.
Fillers
Wrinkles are caused by a loss of collagen, or hyaluronic acid, as skin ages. Fillers or dermal fillers are injections that fill in lines and wrinkles with hyaluronic acid, temporarily replacing the skin’s elastin that has been lost with age and adding volume to the face. Unlike Botox, they combat wrinkles & lines that are unchanging and are still visible when the face is at rest. Fillers can also be used to plump and add volume to the lips or cheeks. The effects of fillers are immediately visible, and last between 6 – 24 months, fading gradually. Fillers can be immediately reversed if need be. The most commonly known brand name for fillers is the Juvederm family. If you’re looking to take the next step in anti aging treatment, consult a professional to help you decide if you can benefit from Botox or dermal fillers!