Choosing the Right Cosmetic Injections: Neurotoxins or Dermal Fillers?
When it comes to enhancing one's facial features, several cosmetic treatments are available. The most popular are neurotoxins and dermal filler injections. They both are used to decrease signs of aging by addressing the loss of volume and tightness in the skin. Neurotoxins and Dermal fillers offer many benefits that extend beyond aesthetic purposes. In this blog, we will discuss the main differences between these two injectable cosmetic treatments.
Botox
Botox is a type of neurotoxin that is derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Botulinum toxins are sold under the brand names Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin. A study found that Botox is the most common cosmetic procedure performed worldwide, with estimates of nearly 3 million injections per year.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox only works on wrinkles caused by muscle movement, known as dynamic wrinkles, often called “expression lines.” The most common dynamic wrinkles that Botox can treat are lines on the upper face, such as the “11” between the brows, horizontal lines on the forehead, and crow’s feet around the eyes. These lines are caused by smiling, frowning, squinting, and other facial expressions. Botox works by blocking nerve signals in the muscles where it is injected. The blocking of nerve signals temporarily paralyze or freeze the targetted muscle and without the movement of these facial muscles, inevitable wrinkles may be softened, reduced, or even removed. Botox will not work on fine lines and wrinkles caused by sagging or loss of plumpness in the face. These are known as static wrinkles. Static wrinkles include lines in the cheeks, neck, and jaw areas. Botox is not a permanent treatment. Repeated treatments are necessary for continued wrinkle-reducing effects. Most people find that the muscle-relaxing effect of Botox lasts for 3 to 4 months.
Botox Side Effects And Considerations
Common side effects of Botox include:
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are an injectable treatment used to restore volume in the face, smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, and enhance the skin's overall appearance. FDA has approved dermal fillers for use in adults 22 or older. Dermal fillers are crafted from diverse materials, each possessing distinct properties. Understanding these materials is crucial for determining the most suitable dermal filler for your needs. The substances commonly used in dermal fillers include:
Calcium Hydroxylapatite
Hyaluronic Acid
Polylactic Acid
How Do Dermal Fillers Work?
Around the age of 30, our collagen levels start to deplete, causing the skin to lose its volume and elasticity, which makes fine lines and wrinkles more visible. Dermal fillers are used to counter the aging of the skin and the loss of collagen. They are gel-like substances that restore the lost volume and give the skin a smoother, fuller look when injected into the skin. The results can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the type of filler used. Different types of dermal fillers are designed to treat different concerns. Depending on the filler selected, they may:
Dermal Filler Side Effects And Considerations
Dermal fillers are considered to be safe, but side effects can occur. The most common side effects include:
Differences Between Neurotoxins and Dermal Fillers
What is Kybella?
Botox and dermal fillers are both minimally invasive cosmetic treatments given through injections. However, they differ in that Botox freezes muscle, and fillers add fullness. Botox contains Botulinum Toxin, which paralyzes muscles and helps minimize the appearance of lines and wrinkles caused by facial expressions. Dermal fillers contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, and poly-L-lactic acid that add volume to thinned areas due to aging. This volume loss occurs commonly in the cheeks, lips, and around the mouth.
Treatment Areas
The most apparent difference between Botox and dermal fillers is the area of the face they’re targeting and what they’re augmenting. Botox is best for addressing wrinkles and facial lines such as forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet, and marionette lines. Dermal fillers are great for restoring volume to the face and giving the skin a fuller, more youthful look. Fillers can augment lips, cheeks, chin, jawline, and more.
Cost
Botox treatments are usually priced per unit or area treated and can be less expensive compared to dermal fillers. Dermal filler treatments are typically priced per syringe, and the cost can vary based on the type of filler and the number of syringes used.
Longevity
There are more differences between Botox and dermal fillers when considering their longevity. In most cases, one treatment of Botox will produce the desired effects for about 3 to 4 months. Then, follow-up treatments will be necessary to maintain them. On the other hand, dermal fillers can last anywhere from 1 to 2 years, but having a follow-up treatment every 6 to 12 months will help maintain the results longer. Another thing to consider is the permanency of each treatment. Once Botox is injected, it can’t be removed manually. You must wait for the neurotoxin to degrade in your system slowly. However, dermal fillers can be removed by dissolving the substance with an enzyme called hyaluronidase.
Conclusion
Botox and fillers are both effective treatments for enhancing one's facial features. The choice between the two largely depends on your concerns and goals. If you are looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, Botox is the better option. However, fillers are the better choice to add volume and contour to your face. When considering either treatment, it is crucial to research and find a qualified and experienced healthcare professional who can help you achieve the best possible results. With the help of experts at M Health and Beauty, you can find out which treatment suits your needs best and start your journey toward achieving your beauty goals.

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