Treatment options for wrinkles are more abundant today. They range from over-the-counter products and home remedies to invasive and non-invasive treatments. The two most promising treatments, however, are Botox and dermal fillers.
The popularity of both Botox and fillers has been on the rise throughout the last decade. Although Botox is still considered to be more popular, dermal fillers are aggressively threatening its position. The most pressing issue, either way, is which option to go with when dealing with wrinkles. Understanding the difference between the two treatment options can help make a more informed choice.
What is Botox?
For starters, you need to understand that Botox is the brand name given to specific botulinum neurotoxins. There are several approved neurotoxins, the most popular being Botox.
Neurotoxins work by paralyzing or weakening the muscles temporarily. As a result, it is more effective on wrinkles that result from facial expressions like frown lines, ‘11s’ between the eyebrows and crow’s feet. Botox is ideal for treating dynamic wrinkles.
Other than skincare, Botox can be injected into the armpits to help reduce excess sweating (hyperhidrosis). It can also be injected into the jaw muscle to prevent or reduce teeth grinding resulting from TMJ. Botox starts working within 2 to 10 days.
Botox has been on the market the longest and is still the injectable of choice for most people because it is effective and safe. While it cannot treat all wrinkles, Botox is more effective in treating the most common types of wrinkles. It is the most sought-after treatment.
What are fillers?
Dermal fillers are newer in the cosmetic scene. However, they do make up for their newness with a variety of products and applications. They have many names and are used for treating wrinkles beyond those on the face. Fillers mostly focus on the lips, cheeks, under the eyes and mouth.
The hyaluronic acid fillers are basically gel-like products used to fill creases and folds in order to replenish the skin’s lost volume. They can also be used to contour your face. It is good to note that hyaluronic acid is a polysaccharide that naturally occurs in the human body. Its role is to offer lubrication and cushioning for the nerves, joints, skin, hair and eyes. In skincare, it works as a moisture binder. It attaches itself to water in the cells, thus making them more plump.
The main use of dermal fillers is to fill lines/wrinkles. The fillers are available in a range of thicknesses. The right thickness is selected for a specific skin type. The results will last between 5 to 24 months, depending on your skin type.
Which is More Effective?
Now that you understand the key differences between these two options used for skin tightening let’s evaluate the effectiveness of each.
The first point you need to keep in mind is that the effectiveness of both treatments depends on your personal goals. For example, Botox can be used preventatively. It can be injected long before deep-set wrinkles are noticed. The areas that need to be treated also determine which injectable to use. Dermal fillers are used to add volume, mainly under the eyes, jawline and cheeks.
The simple rule to remember is that lines of expression are better treated using Botox, where as lines at rest are treated using a filler. Although Botox is very effective for reducing wrinkles at ‘crease points’ where the muscles contract, fillers are ideal for deep lines that are visible even when the facial muscles are not contracting.
When it comes to the question of which injectable is better, both fillers and Botox can be best. However, like all skincare products, no one product or treatment can solve all problems. Botox and fillers will work for the specific conditions they are approved and created to treat. If you are dealing with non-muscular wrinkles, the best product will be dermal fillers. Botox cannot help with non-muscular wrinkles. If you are treating wrinkles caused by muscle movement, then Botox will be the better option.
The type of condition you are dealing with determines which treatment will be best for you. To give better results, Botox and fillers can be combined. It is, however, important to note that the results achieved with Botox and fillers are temporary. You will require a maintenance plan every couple of months. How frequently you need the maintenance treatment will depend on your unique condition.
Are you still having trouble deciding on the right treatment for your needs? Reach out to the Urban Beauty Bar today for a consultation. The team is happy to answer any question you may have and assess your condition to determine which treatment will be best for you. Don’t let wrinkles rob you of your peace of mind. Visit Urban Beauty Bar to get them taken care of.
