As you get older, emerging signs of aging may turn your thoughts toward anti-aging treatments, but there are so many to choose from it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Should you choose Botox® to treat your wrinkles or one of the many filler treatments that are rapidly becoming popular? Which one works the best for you?
Today, we’ll explore how both treatments work, and give you the foundation to understand which one will give you the results you’re looking for.
What is Botox®?
Botox is a neurotoxin that relaxes the muscles. It is injected into the problem area, and those muscles relax, causing a smoother appearance of the skin. Botox is best used on signs of aging caused by repetitive movement – that is, wrinkles in your forehead, lines between your eyes, frown lines, and similar wrinkles. Many younger people use Botox as a preventative because it stops the repetitive movements that cause wrinkles in the first place.
What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are gel-like substances usually made of hyaluronic acid, that replenish lost volume in the face. They add plumpness and decrease the signs of aging. Fillers are best used for wrinkles that appear even when your face is at rest, such as those under your eyes, on your lips, and sleep wrinkles on your cheeks. They could also create fuller lips or create a full plump look to your cheeks.
Which treatment is better – Botox®, or fillers?
The effectiveness of each product depends on your situation, and your particular cosmetic needs. If you’re looking to prevent wrinkles or treat wrinkles from repetitive movement, then Botox would be the best choice. Deep-set wrinkles that occur even when your face is at rest will benefit the most from dermal fillers. They could also create fullness for those with thinner lips or sunken cheeks – “the liquid facelift.”
In terms of side effects, both procedures have only a mild chance of side effects, especially when done by one of our experienced injectors. The most common side effects are bruising or swelling at the injection site, which usually clears up in a day or two. If you choose Botox, you may need treatments more frequently, as Botox lasts 3-6 months, and filler can last for up to 24 depending on the patient and the product used.
In short, Botox and dermal fillers are used for different applications, so the answer to “which one is better?” depends on your needs. Those needs are best determined with a visit to your dermatologist’s office, where you can receive a customized cosmetic consultation and get personalized recommendations from a doctor.
If you’re ready to take that step, get in contact with Advanced Dermatology today. Our New Jersey and New York dermatologists’ offices are eager to help you get on the road to the most confident version of yourself. If you’re ready to take that step today, or if you just have further questions for us, get in contact with our cosmetic concierge at 855-793-2868.