When it comes to the world of injectables, the sheer number of names and options can be overwhelming and confusing. However, it’s important to be an educated consumer, learning and understanding the differences between them before scheduling your next appointment. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned vet, we could all use some refresher.
Here’s everything you need to know about the differences between neurotoxins like BOTOX® and facial fillers, like Juvéderm®.
BOTOX and Juvéderm treat different concerns
The stigma of sticking a needle in your face has all but vanished, but it’s important to understand the intricacies of what each type does.
Our most popular aesthetic treatment and the most mainstream for a reason, BOTOX® is primarily used to treat crow’s feet, forehead lines, laugh lines, and other signs of aging. However, it’s a versatile treatment — it can also be used to lift brows, decrease migraine frequency, and reduce sweat.
Juvéderm® and other fillers restore or add volume to the face, restoring a plump, youthful look to places like under the eye and around the mouth. Traditionally, filler treats moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, and Juvéderm® can also be used for lip augmentation.
BOTOX and Juvéderm work differently
BOTOX® works by stopping the injected muscle from contracting, leading to a softer appearance, while the filler works by “filling in” the treated area, allowing for added volume to the area.
BOTOX and Juvéderm have different active ingredients
BOTOX® derives from a naturally-occurring neurotoxin. Botulinum toxin, the active ingredient in BOTOX®, was discovered by scientists in the 1950s to decrease muscle activity — blocking signals from the nerves to the muscles when directly injected.
Fillers like Juvéderm®, on the other hand, use the active ingredient hyaluronic acid (HA) to fill in the skin. HA is a naturally-occurring substance that is already found in the skin, responsible for skin elasticity and plumpness. As we get older, the HA in our skin dissipates. You may have heard of HA in skincare, but used topically it can’t restore lost volume. Injected, however, it can restore plumpness and replenish your body’s natural production of hyaluronic acid.
BOTOX and Juvéderm last different amounts of time
While both injectables are long-lasting, BOTOX® works for up to three months per injection, while Juvéderm can last for over a year once injected.
A critical difference is that BOTOX® cannot be disintegrated once injected (it will have to wane naturally), whereas filler can be disintegrated if needed.
Both injectables are great choices, and they work well in tandem with one another. Whether you’re interested in one or both, they can be scheduled and administered during the same appointment. Give us a call to make an appointment today: (256) 355-5585.
