As time passes, we begin to see life’s adventures, good and bad, appear one wrinkle at a time on our skin, growing deeper and deeper throughout the years. Starting to age is inevitable, natural and irreversible. However, that doesn’t mean that there is nothing to be done about it. You’ve probably heard about options like neurotoxins (which include Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Jeauveau) and dermal fillers before, but how do you know which, if either, is suitable for you? Continue reading to learn about the differences between neurotoxins and dermal fillers.
WHAT ARE NEUROTOXINS?
Neurotoxins are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved, technique-sensitive treatments derived from clostridium botulinum that help relax muscles of facial expression to reduce and prevent frown lines and wrinkles. Examples of neurotoxins treatments include Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Jeauveau. At the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, we use Dysport and Botox.
HOW DO NEUROTOXINS WORK?
Neurotoxins are safe injections of botulinum toxin that inhibit muscle contraction and, therefore, weaken movement of the injected underlying muscles. Once the muscles relax, the overlying wrinkles that are caused by their use are reduced. The full impact of the injection is seen at 10 to 14 days from the injection. The injection has a temporary effect for about three to four months as the body will naturally degrade the product over time. Injections will need to be repeated as the muscles start to regain movement. Individuals of most ages can receive neurotoxin injections, and the sooner they are injected, the greater the likelihood of preventing prominent wrinkles and fine lines from developing. To learn about the different uses of neurotoxins, besides wrinkles, read our blog, Off-Label Uses of Botox.
If you receive a neurotoxin treatment, you will notice improvement for roughly three to four months before needing to receive treatment again.
WHAT ARE DERMAL FILLERS?
Dermal fillers are injectables designed to replenish volume loss that occurs over time with the aging process. As we age, we lose collagen and elastin in our face, and the tissue under the skin will thin out. Dermal fillers can stimulate collagen production under the skin and help replenish some of the volume loss.Â
There are many types of dermal fillers on the market. They are classified as temporary, semi-permanent or permanent depending on the length of time they remain in the tissue. The temporary fillers are the most often used in the Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, due to their safety profile and good results. These include:
- Calcium hydroxylapatite (a mineral-like compound)
- Hyaluronic acid (found in body tissues and fluids)
- Polyalkylimide (a safe injection gel)
- Polylactic acid (stimulates collagen production)
- Polymethyl-methacrylate microspheres (semi-permanent filler)
WHAT ARE THE RISKS?
Any medical treatment comes with associated risks. Neurotoxin injections may result in some bruising, redness and swelling, drooping eyelids or headaches. Side effects are rare after neurotoxin treatments but not impossible.
Dermal fillers are more prone to temporary side effects, although severe side effects are uncommon. If you receive dermal filler treatments, you may experience bruising, itching, swelling and irritation, infection, numbness, scarring or sores. In some cases, these injections can result in unevenness in the appearance of the treated area or damage to blood vessels.
WHO CANNOT RECEIVE NEUROTOXINS OR DERMAL FILLERS?
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Those who have a neurological disease
- Individuals who have an allergy to albumin
- Individuals who have infections, skin conditions or weakness in the area being treated
WHICH OPTION IS RIGHT FOR ME?
The Dermatology Center for Skin Health, PLLC, is here to help you understand which treatment will give you your desired results. For example, if you’re looking to smooth fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, nose and forehead, you might consider learning more about neurotoxin treatments. Similarly, if you’re looking for firmness and bouncy skin, you should consider learning more about dermal filler options. Our dermatologists have many years of experience with neurotoxins and dermal fillers. Due to their medical training, they have a thorough understanding of the structure of the face and which neurotoxins and dermal fillers are appropriate for which areas of the face.
THE DERMATOLOGY CENTER FOR SKIN HEALTH, PLLC | NEUROTOXINS & DERMAL FILLERS
The Dermatology Center Center for Skin Health, PLLC, is ready to assist you and determine which option will best suit your needs and provide youthful, beautiful results. Our skilled team is prepared to help you reclaim your youth and regain and build confidence with the help of experienced professionals and high-quality treatment.
Schedule an appointment with one of our dermatologists today to see which option is right for you and get started on your treatment plan for beautiful skin. Call 304.598.3888 to make your appointment today.
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