Modern science has given us so many choices in cosmetic treatments to combat wrinkles and fine lines. Noninvasive treatments in the form of injectables are a perfect example of this.

The most popular injectables working wonders for patients all over the world are Botox and Dermal Fillers. At a first glance, they seem similar – after all, they’re both injected, they’re non-invasive, temporary, convenient, and they’re incredibly effective.

When applied by a licensed board-certified dermatologist, both botox injections and dermal fillers can help boost and rejuvenate your features in a matter of minutes. Let’s discuss how they are different, and certain things you need to consider before booking an appointment with your plastic surgeon or licensed dermatologist.

Botox vs Dermal Fillers

Botox is a brand name for botulinum toxin. For cosmetic purposes, doctors inject botulinum toxin in order to temporarily immobilize or relax certain muscles that cause wrinkles. Other brands of botulinum toxin available include Dysport and Xeomin.

Dermal fillers, on the other hand, rejuvenate your look by filling those wrinkles. If this sounds a bit vague, it helps to understand how you get to a place when you actually need a filler. Our skin has natural collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, which keep the skin glowing, elastic and hydrated. As we age, our body’s ability to produce more of these substances decreases. This means that our skin is likely to sag, become dry and develop stubborn folds and wrinkles over time. Dermal fillers, which either contain hyaluronic acid or collagen, fill those folds of skin, just like the natural body does at a younger age. The most popular brands of dermal fillers available are Juvederm and Radiesse.

The Main Difference Between Botox and Dermal Fillers

Botox and dermal fillers both have the purpose of reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles, but the main difference can be summed up in the wrinkles they can treat and how they do it. Botox is injected into the muscles. Therefore, Botox and other botulinum neurotoxins target dynamic wrinkles caused by facial expressions, such as your frown lines or your crow’s feet when you smile. Dermal filler procedures are great when combating wrinkles that don’t accentuate with muscle movement, such as lip lines. Dermal fillers are also great when restoring volume to the face, like plumping up your lips or cheeks.

Juvederm (Hyaluronic Acid) and Botox Injections: Which One Is Better?

Ultimately, you should consult a cosmetic surgeon or a dermatologist who specializes in injectables in order to figure out if a botulinum neurotoxin or a dermal filler such as hyaluronic acid is better for YOU. Here are some things to consider when deciding between botox and fillers: If your wrinkles increase with facial expressions (dynamic wrinkles), Botox injections are probably what you’re looking for. Deeper lines that are there even when you’re not gesturing? Dermal fillers.

Another thing to remember is that these treatments are very gentle and safe, so it’s completely possible to use a combination of minimally invasive botox and fillers in order to give an effective touch-up to your whole face. Here are some quick tips for problem areas:

Botox vs Dermal Fillers for Lips 

As you age, your lips can also lose volume because collagen and elastin start to break down and your body cannot replace them quickly enough. Winner? Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Juvederm, can add youthful fullness to your lips.

Botox vs Dermal Fillers for Frown and Forehead Lines

Every time you raise your eyebrows, frown, or squint, you are contracting muscles. Over time, you’ll likely develop horizontal lines on your forehead. Winner? Depends on your lines. For most patients, it is best when Botox or Dysport and a dermal filler, such as Restylane or Juvederm are combined. Botox injections relax the overactive muscle and hyaluronic acid fillers will add volume to the wrinkle, fading it.

Botox vs Dermal Fillers for Crow’s Feet

A life well lived will likely result in crow’s feet – sunny days, hysterical laughter, and smiles tend to leave a mark. Those tiny lines near your eyes can become permanent with time. Winner? Botox treatments or Dysport, with the option to add soft tissue fillers to maximize the results.

Botox vs Fillers: Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Juvederm, Radiesse…which will be best?

Botox and fillers have pros and cons depending on you and the areas you are looking to treat. In order to determine the best, schedule a one-on-one appointment with a board-certified dermatologist. At VIDA Wellness and Beauty, we have years of experience helping thousands of patients look their best with minimally invasive injectables like dermal fillers and injectable neurotoxins. We’re looking forward to making the best recommendation for you! Give us a call now at (619)610-1667.