If you wish for a fresher, more youthful-looking face, you are not alone; cosmetic procedures to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles are among the most popular. However, not everyone will go under the knife to achieve their desired look. Many opt for a routine of anti-aging skincare that includes topical treatments and minimally invasive procedures to maintain their youthful appearance without surgery.
This is why anti-aging procedures like Botox and dermal fillers are in high demand. The result is a younger, more radiant appearance – without the risks and downtime associated with surgery. Botox and dermal fillers are non-invasive, non-surgical injectable treatments, so it can be easy to confuse them. Among these, Bellafill long-lasting dermal fillers stand out for their durability, while treatments aimed at reducing the double chin enhance the jawline and profile.
So what’s the difference? Which is right for you? Keep reading to find out.
What is Botox?
Botox is the brand name for a type of botulinum toxin injection. Botulinum toxins are neurotoxins, and the bacterium Clostridium botulinum makes the toxins in Botox. Doctors have been using Botox for years to fight the signs of aging. Botox has also been used for other medical purposes, including migraines, jaw pain, and hyperhidrosis.
How does Botox work?
Our facial movements and expressions (such as frowning, smiling, or squinting) cause tiny grooves on the surface of our skin. Over time, our skin loses elasticity and these grooves become more permanent – hence, the fine lines and wrinkles we know as the signs of aging.
When injected into the desired area by an experienced medical professional, Botox temporarily paralyzes the muscles so they can no longer contract and tense up. The result is a smoother, more youthful appearance. Botox can be used on any area with unwanted lines and wrinkles.
Botox Treatment and Results
Since Botox is a noninvasive procedure, you won’t need any downtime and can return to work and your regular activities right away. Be sure to discuss any aftercare with your doctor.
What are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal filler is an injectable substance containing hyaluronic acid – a gel-like substance that naturally occurs in the body. Hyaluronic acid works to keep our skin moisturized and elastic. As the name implies, fillers are used to “fill” an area, adding volume to the skin.
Fillers are commonly used to add plumpness to the lips or address sagging and hollow areas such as the cheeks or jawline. Fillers can also treat some types of acne scars or other forms of sunken scarring.
How do dermal fillers work for wrinkles?
By adding volume to the desired area, dermal fillers fight the signs of aging by smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles—quite literally “filling” the recessed area. The hyaluronic acid in fillers keeps skin supple and hydrated, improving its appearance. Dermal fillers are fully customizable—you get to choose the amount of volume added.
Dermal Fillers Treatment and Results
A typical filler treatment lasts about 30 minutes, and you will immediately see results! Like Botox, you won’t need any downtime after this procedure. However, you’ll want to avoid touching or rubbing the area and avoid strenuous activities and exercise for at least 24-48 hours post-treatment. Talk to your doctor about any aftercare. The results from dermal fillers may last six months to a year or more.
Which option is right for me?
Now that we’ve discussed Botox and dermal fillers, you might still wonder which option is best for your needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind when deciding on a treatment:
- Botox is great for addressing the lines and wrinkles caused by facial expressions. It is also best for treating wrinkles caused by muscle movement, which are called dynamic lines. Dynamic lines go away when your face is at rest, but Botox may not get rid of very deep lines and wrinkles. Botox can also be used as a preventative treatment. It is often the best choice for younger patients.
- Dermal fillers are also considered effective. They are best for addressing lines at rest, meaning fine lines and wrinkles that are apparent even when your face isn’t moving. These are called static lines. Fillers work to smooth static lines while also adding volume to sagging skin. They are the best choice for older patients or anyone with deep-set signs of aging that are present all the time.
Remember, you can get a combination of both! You don’t necessarily have to choose between the two.
When in doubt, talk to your healthcare provider. The experienced professionals at EverYoung Med are here to answer any questions or discuss any concerns about your individual needs. Together, we can devise the best plan to suit your cosmetic goals, including discussing the importance of sunscreen in your anti-aging regimen to protect your skin from premature aging and maintain its youthful glow.
Botox and dermal fillers share many similarities. Both are popular injectable treatments used to fight signs of aging and improve appearance.
However, there are different procedures that address other specific needs. At EverYoung Medical Aesthetics, we want you to look and feel your best! Talk to one of our dedicated team members today to develop the best treatment plan for you.
