Botox and fillers are the most sought after anti-wrinkle treatment. More and more people are turning to these non-invasive procedures to reach their aesthetic goals. In 2019, over 7 million botox procedures were done and over 2 million filler injections. However, there is one big question many have (even those who have previously sought treatment) — what is the difference between botox and fillers?

Botox smooths lines. 

Botox (also referred to as BOTOX®, XEOMIN®, DYSPORT® and JEUVEAU®) works on dynamic lines (expression lines), lines that are created when the face is in motion. When you squint or frown, the muscles between your eyebrows, around your eyes and on your forehead contract causing the skin to furrow and fold.  As your skin ages and loses some of its elasticity, these repeated contractions can cause persistent lines.

Botox contains a protein extracted from the bacteria, clostridium difficile which when injected into specific areas of the face results in muscle relaxation. By reducing these contractions, botox can temporarily reduce the appearance of moderate to severe lines. With consistent use, botox can smooth static lines, lines that are present when the face is at rest.

KEY POINTS

• Botox most commonly treats the upper 1/3 of the face

• Used to prevent formation of fine line lines and wrinkles

• Treatment takes only 10-15 minutes

• Results last up to 3-4 months

Fillers add volume.

Injectable gel fillers are injected into the dermis adding volume and providing support resulting in a smoother, younger appearance. Fillers contain hyaluronic acid (HA) which is a naturally occurring substance in the body that retains water, giving skin is moisture and plumpness. HA becomes depleted with age resulting in volume loss. Gel fillers injected into specific areas of the face temporarily restoring the volume loss beneath the surface without surgery.

KEY POINTS

• Fillers are used to shape and lift full face

• Injectables add volume to mild/moderate wrinkles

• Treatments take about 20-30 minutes

• Improvement can be seen immediately

• Results may last up to 1 year