Botox and dermal fillers are both injectables, however the two treatments have very different functions. It’s a common misconception that Botox and fillers can be used interchangeably. In this article, we will address the differences between these two treatments and help you decide which one is right for you.
When it comes to dermal fillers, we're talking about two main things: the ability to fill in (add volume to) wrinkles and folds, and the ability to change the shape of your face. There are a few other uses for dermal filler injections, but these are the biggies.
When it comes to filling in wrinkles and folds (which is what most people think of when they hear "dermal fillers"), there's one very important thing you need to understand: injecting your face with foreign substances will not make it permanently smooth! This goes back to our earlier point that Botox and dermal fillers are really just two different versions of the same thing—Botox works by temporarily paralyzing muscles around your face so that you can't make the expressions that cause wrinkles; dermal fillers work by filling up those creases and adding volume with hyaluronic acid or collagen. But if nothing else happens after that first injection? You'll still be left with those creases! The only way they'll go away is if you inject them again—and again, and again...
Botox is a purified protein that can be injected into the skin. It works by weakening the muscle contractions that cause facial wrinkles to form, thereby reducing or completely eliminating them. Botox has many uses in cosmetic medicine, but it's most commonly used to treat forehead wrinkles, crow's feet around the eyes, and vertical lines between your eyebrows (also known as "elevens").
Botox can also be used for neck rejuvenation, jaw line contouring and under-eye bags. The effects usually last about three months after each treatment session before needing another round of injections.
Filler and Botox are both used to treat signs of aging, but they work differently. Filler is injected into the skin to fill in wrinkles or other imperfections, while Botox is a neurotoxin that prevents muscles from contracting. Both can be very effective in making you look younger. However, you should know that filler will not prevent future wrinkles from forming, while Botox may do so if applied early enough in the aging process (before the muscle gets too tense).
To be honest, you don’t really have to go with one or the other—it all comes down to what you want out of your procedure. We know this can be a lot of information to process at once... But if you’re still not sure which option is right for you, medical professionals are always here to help!
Team BB x