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When it comes to choosing an injectable wrinkle relaxer, our clients routinely ask "What is the difference between top brands?" and "Which one works the best?"
Before delving into the comparison of top wrinkle reducers, a basic science lesson: Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are technically classified as neuromodulators (also referred to as neurotoxins). When injected into facial tissue, the neurotoxins disrupt signals between nerves and muscles, causing muscle relaxation and... WAH LAH... goodbye wrinkles! The pesky lines on your forehead, between your eyebrows, and crow's feet develop because of repetitive, small muscle contractions attributed to facial expresions; neurotoxins offer a non-surgical option for "relaxing away" the lines and wrinkles to create a more youthful appearance.
Botox- The Infamous One
For decades Botox has been infamous in the cosmetic industry and is most commonly chosen by first-timers simply because of its name recognition and extensive track record. It was FDA approved in 2002 for treating eyebrow lines (also referred to as glabellar lines) and has since been approved for treating crow's feet (lines extending from the corners of the eyes) and forehead lines. Botox has a substantial performance history and fanbase to match, ensuring a well-deserved spot among the list of Top Toxins.
Contents: Onabotulinum toxin A + Human serum albumin + NaCl
Visible Results: On average, it takes about 7 to 9 days post-treatment for the results to appear, though some clients report visible smoothing as early as 3-4 days after injection. It can take up to two weeks for the full effect to be visible.
Longevity: Botox lasts an average of 3 months. Some clients are able to stretch out a single Botox visit for 6 months. How quickly your body metabolizes Botox is the key factor, and this is unique to each individual.
Takeaways: Because of its higher molecular weight, and thicker viscosity, Botox is well-loved for its predictability in precision - staying where it is intended. This reduces the risk of spread and incidental impact to adjacent areas.
Dysport- The Fast One
Dysport achieved FDA approval in 2009 for for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines. Similar to Botox, Dysport contains the active ingredient Clostridium botulinum type A neurotoxin complex but they differ in the types of protein used in their respective formulas. It is this difference in proteins that gives Dysport its mark to fame in the industry. Because Dsyport's formula is thinner (less viscous) than Botox, it easily facilitates diffusion - and FAST! Spreadability is ideal for treating large areas, such as foreheads, and Dysport ticks the box. This wrinkle-relaxer easily claims a spot on the Top Toxins list by producing visible results as soon as 48 hours after injection - That's fast!
The contents: Abobotulinum toxin A + Human serum albumin + lactose
Visible Results: Results are readily seen in 2 to 3 days. Some clients report results in only 24 hours! Full results are appreciated in 10 to 14 days.
Longevity: Dysport lasts an average of 3. How quickly or slowly your body metabolizes Dysport is the key factor in longevity.
Takeaways: Because of its thinner consistency, some clients prefer Dysport over Botox - "feels less heavy and more natural". Dysport's low viscosity is particularly helpful when treating large areas since the spreadability allows for full results from fewer injections.
Xeomin - The Pure One
Xeomin crossed the border of FDA cosmetic approvals in 2011 and offers a "pure, double-filtered" formula. Xeomin's commitment to strip away unnecessary additives has led to it's popularity as a more natural alternative to its counterparts. The absence of extra proteins lessens the likelihood of developing a resistance to the product. Just as effective at reducing wrinkles in areas like eyebrows, the forehead, and around the eyes as Botox and Dysport, The Pure One easily lands a spot on the Top Toxin list with nearly 5 million Xeomin procedures performed yearly.
Contents: Incobotulinum toxin A+ Human serum albumin + sucrose
Visible Results: Similar to Botox, results are generally seen in 7 to 9 days though some clients see results in 3 or 4 days. Maximum results are appreciated at 30 days.
Longevity: Xeomin lasts an average of 3 months. Results may las as long as 6 months: how quickly or slowly your body metabolizes Xeomin is the key factor in longevity.
Takeaways: Xeomin is loved by clients who are seeking a more natural option and the reduced risk of an immune response is an additional big plus.
Bottom Line
Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are all highly effective as facial wrinkle reducers. Choosing the BEST option is often nothing more than a matter of personal preference, for the client and for the clinician. While each of the neurotoxins have slightly different compositions, the differences are quite negligible. A trained provider who is experienced in using these products can modify the procedural technique to account for the differences, and the outcome is the same no matter which wrinkle-relaxer you choose.
Considering Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin? Whether you are a well-seasoned toxer or a newbie, we are here to help. Our qualified, experienced clinicians will guide you on your journey to reduce lines and achieve a more youthful complexion. Subtle changes or more dramatic results, we've got you covered!
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