Injectables have gained popularity in the past few decades. Botox and fillers are the most used injectables. Both Botox and fillers can be used to treat certain cosmetic issues such as fine lines, wrinkles, and the signs of aging. Both procedures are minimally invasive and can show effective and long-lasting results. Though both procedures are effective, they differ in terms of uses, efficiency, cost, etc.
What is Botox ?
Botox, also known as botulinum toxin is an injectable used to reduce wrinkles and the signs of ageing, etc. It is used to block certain chemical signals from nerves to facial muscles. Once Botox is injected into the target site, it will paralyze the targeted muscles temporarily. This will prevent the targeted muscle from receiving nerve messages to contract. This will relax the surrounding skin and make skin look smoother and softer.
Botox is considered as a safe procedure and is a widely used non-surgical cosmetic procedure. Botox injections can be used to treat dynamic wrinkles that appear around the eyes, eyebrows, and mouth. Botox injections can be given in a few minutes and you can see effective results in a few weeks.
What are Fillers?
Fillers are injectable gels to restore volumes in the areas of the sunken skin. Fillers can be used to plump lips, and cheeks, and to smooth fine lines. However, fillers are mainly used to treat smile lines.
The following are some of the commonly used substances as fillers:
- Collagen
- Hyaluronic acid
- Polyalkylimide
- Polymethyl-methacrylate microspheres (PMMA)
- Polylactic acid (PLLA)
- Calcium hydroxylapatite
Your body can produce collagen and Hyaluronic acid. However, the volume decreases as you get older. This will create wrinkles and depression. But with fillers, you can restore the lost volume.
How are Botox and Fillers Injected?
Both Botox and fillers are given through injections. Before deciding on Botox or fillers, you will need to undergo an examination to determine if they are right for you. The doctor also considers your medical history and your expected goals.
Botox Injections
For Botox injections, the doctor uses a thin needle to inject the Botox into your muscles or skin. Botox injections can be administered into crow’s feet, forehead, frown lines and wrinkles around the mouth. You may have some discomfort during the procedure and the doctor can use ice, or topical anesthesia to make you comfortable.
The number of Botox injections required is based on the treatment site, and the severity of the wrinkles and fine lines. The results of Botox injections last from three months to six months based on the issue to be treated. You need to undergo follow-up injections to maintain the results.
Fillers
For fillers, the doctor first cleans the target site and then applies lotion with anesthetic. Now, small amounts of filler are injected under your targeted skin using a thin needle. Based on the areas treated and their severity, you can notice results immediately. You may experience pain and swelling after the procedure. But it can be managed using an ice pack. The entire procedure can take a few minutes to an hour based on the area to be treated.
The doctor may evaluate you after four weeks of your fillers to know if you need any further treatments to achieve the expected results.
How Effective are Botox and Fillers?
Botox injections show the best results for most people. You can see the results within two weeks of your treatment. The side effects are also minimal and short-term. If you have any pre-existing condition, you should inform your dermatologist to avoid any possible side effects. There is no downtime for Botox injections and you can get back to work as usual. The results of the procedure can last up to four months or longer. To maintain the results, you should seek additional treatments.
On the other hand, derma fillers are more effective and the results also last longer. However the duration of the results varies based on the type of filler used. Like Botox, derma fillers also need to be repeated once the results wear off.
Want to Know About Fillers and Botox Injections? Wait No More and Visit Skin Stories Today
If you are willing to learn about fillers and Botox injections, visit Skin Stories today. Our team of dermatologists can help suggest a comprehensive treatment plan to treat your aesthetic issues. Our dermatologists are experienced and trusted sources and they can determine the right one for you. We first evaluate your skin and will consider your health as a priority. Then we suggest whether fillers or Botox is suitable for you. To get evaluated for Botox or fillers, book your initial appointment right away.
