Think fast – Botox or Dermal Fillers, which is better? To answer this there are a few considerations that we’ll go over in this post. Botox and Dermal Fillers are equally famous injectable cosmetic treatments that are minimally invasive and deliver the best results. They treat wrinkles and signs of aging. So, what is the difference between the two? They differ in uses, efficiency, cost, and side effects. Here is a guide that will help you know the difference and to choose the right treatment for you.
Botox
Botox or Botulinum toxin is synthesized from bacteria named clostridium botulinum. It paralyzes the muscles where it is injected and prevents overlying skin or wrinkles.
Botox has been used for years to treat migraine headaches, hyperhidrosis, and other medical conditions. As a cosmetic treatment, it works best to treat dynamic wrinkles like frown lines, the lines between the brows, crow’s feet, lines around lips, and under-eye wrinkles. The treatment does not work for fine lines caused by collagen breakdown. The results of Botox last for 3-6 months depending on the individual.
Side Effects
Side effects of Botox treatment are generally pretty mild. You can experience some bruising or tenderness at the injection site. Headache on the first day of treatment can be common. More serious side effects can happen but are extremely rare. These reactions can include severe allergic reactions, flu-like symptoms, skin rashes, dizziness or trouble breathing. We will provide you with all the information regarding this prior to your treatment.
Is It Safe?
The treatment is generally considered safe for all except pregnant women, and people suffering from myasthenia gravis or some other rare neurological conditions.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are also known as injectable soft tissue fillers. They add volume to the areas that have sunken in. All the folds, crevices, creases, or crinkles can be treated with dermal fillers.
There are two main types of fillers. One is made of hyaluronic acid and the other with calcium hydroxyapatite.
Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the skin. It keeps your skin hydrated and plump. The concentration of hyaluronic acid falls and results in wrinkles and fine lines. It is available in dermal fillers that are injected into the areas with lesser volume. The results usually last for 6-12 months.
Calcium hydroxyapatite is present in your bones. It is used in dermal fillers. The microscopic particles of calcium are suspended in a smooth gel. The consistency is comparatively thicker than hyaluronic acid fillers and results last longer. It boosts the natural production of collagen and works well for deeper lines and wrinkles.
There is another man-made material that is poly-L-lactic acid is used to replace lost volume into the skin. The results can last up to 2 years.
Side Effects
The treatment is generally considered safe. Severe side effects are rare. Moderate side effects can occur that include allergic reactions, bruising, itching, redness, scarring, or numbness. It can last for 6-12 days. For long-term swelling ice packs can help.
Is It Safe?
Dermal fillers from a trusted or authentic brand are generally safe but if you are pregnant, allergic to the ingredient used in the injections, or got an infection from a previous dermal filler’s session, then avoid the treatment.
Which One is Better?
The answer to this question mainly depends on the patient’s needs and desires. Skin aging varies from person to person. It depends on genetics, lifestyle, and some other factors.
- Forehead Lines– Botox works for shallow forehead lines but the deeper wrinkles like the lines just above the eyebrows can be difficult to treat with Botox.
- Undereye Wrinkles- Botox and fillers both can do wonders for the eye area. Botox works great to prevent crow’s feet, elevate the eyebrows, and make your eyes look younger. Fillers can add volume to the wrinkled areas around the eyes.
- Cheeks- Dermal Fillers is the right treatment to contour your cheeks. It highlights and lifts your cheekbones and gives you very natural results.
- Lips- Both treatments work for your mouth area. Dermal fillers smoothen fine lines, increase hydration and volume of the lips. Botox adds shape to your lips by relaxing the muscles. It makes them look bigger and fuller.
The Cost
Botox and dermal fillers both are widely available cosmetic treatments. The cost usually depends on the area of the face you want to treat, the experience of the doctor or trainer, and the clinic. Botox is comparatively less expansive than the dermal fillers but the results of fillers last longer than Botox.
Final Thoughts
Botox and dermal fillers are safe when performed by an experienced dermatologist. The patient should be aware of all the possible risks and outcomes of the treatments. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid the procedures.
Botox and dermal fillers greatly enhance your appearance but are not as powerful as the surgical procedure that is the facelift. Always find a trusted and reputable dermatologist that can help you achieve the best results.
*Information in this article is not medical advice and may not be factually accurate. It is intended for entertainment purposes only. Consult with a physician before attempting any tips in this blog post and to get the most up to date factual data about any procedure or treatment.
