What is the Difference Between Botox and Dermal Fillers

Both Botox and dermal fillers are cosmetic treatments given through injections, preferably in a doctor’s office. Being minimally invasive, they don’t necessitate surgery. That's their only similarity in skincare treatment in California and elsewhere. In 2015 there were more than 9 million Botox and dermal filler treatments, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). 

Botox comprises purified bacteria to freeze muscles. Accordingly, Botox helps in minimizing the appearance of lines and wrinkles caused due to facial expressions. 

Dermal fillers feature ingredients to add fullness to areas that are thinned because of aging. The thinning is visible in the lips, cheeks, and around the mouth. 

Concept of Botox 

Botox is an unadulterated form of botulinum toxin that is procured from bacteria. Despite being deadly in larger amounts, the tiny, regulated amount of Botox provided to cure wrinkles has been safely used for decades. 

Botox functions by blocking nerve signals in the muscles where it is injected. If the nerve signals are interrupted, the affected muscle is paralyzed momentarily or frozen. Devoid of the movement of these selected muscles in the face, specific wrinkles may be minimized, softened, or even eradicated. 

Botox and other treatments comprising botulinum toxin are often called neuromodulators or neurotoxins. Treatments conducted with botulinum toxin are sold under the brand names Botox Cosmetic, Dysport, and Xeomin. 

Concept of Dermal Fillers 

Dermal fillers, often called soft tissue fillers, are substances meant to be injected below the surface of the skin to add volume and fullness. 

Substances applied in dermal fillers treatment in California are as follows: 

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• Hyaluronic acid is found in certain fluids and tissues of the body that contribute to the plumpness of the skin.  
• Calcium hydroxyl apatite is a mineral-like compound available in bones. 
• Polylactic acid, stimulates the skin to develop more collagen.  
• Polyalkylimide is a transparent gel that is compatible with the body. 
• Polymethyl-methacrylate microspheres (PMMA), which is a semi-permanent filler 

Each one of these is meant to cure various symptoms of aging or other cosmetic issues. The time they take to function, apart from how long they last, also differ a lot. Certain fillers last 6 months, while others last up to 2 years or longer. 

People need to discuss their respective needs and expectations with their doctor to find out what filler would be the most suitable for them. 

Main Differences 

In a nutshell, the key differences between Botox and fillers are as follows: 

• Botox freezes muscles to stop creases and wrinkles caused due to facial expressions. These are usually seen in the upper face, like the forehead, and around the eyes. Botox results last 3 to 4 months. 
• Dermal fillers apply hyaluronic acid and identical substances to “fill in” or plump areas that have reduced volume and smoothness. This comprises wrinkles around the mouth, thin lips, and cheeks that have lost fullness. Moreover, they may be applied on scars, forehead wrinkles, and other areas that require additional volume for a smoother look. Dermal filler results differ. It is based on which filler is being used. 

Conclusion 

As Botox and fillers are different substances meant for different uses, they can often be blended into a single treatment in a skincare clinic in California. For example, someone may apply Botox to cure lines between the eyes and a filler to cure smile lines around the mouth. 

Neither Botox nor fillers are suggested for pregnant women or ladies who are breastfeeding. People with specific health conditions or whoever is under any medications should discuss if Botox or fillers are safe for them.