The fight for eternal youth never ends. In fact, we cannot say that there is an elixir that will stop aging, but there are cosmetic procedures with which we can keep our appearance as young as possible. These are minimally invasive treatments that are well known to everyone – Botox and fillers.
For a long time, many people thought they were the same thing, but these two methods are completely different, and that’s why today we’re going to clarify the differences and help you find what you need. Of course, if you’re not a fan of these treatments but would like something different, you can also check out Botox Sydney CBD alternatives at starmedispa.com.au.
But since we’re here today to solve another dilemma, let’s start with Botox:
What is Botox?
The pure protein coming from the bacteria named Clostridium botulinum is what we know today as Botox. Or, Botox is short for botulinum toxin, a well-known neurotoxin that relaxes facial muscles, making the tan look even. The effect is temporary, and that’s why the wrinkles and lines reappear after some time. Small doses of Botox injections stop the communication between neurons and muscles, stopping muscular spasms in the treated area.
People often use Botox to address dynamic wrinkles resulting from repetitive facial movements. These wrinkles often appear around the eyes and mouth, as well as the forehead. As the botulinum toxin relaxes these muscles, the skin appears smoother with almost no visible lines. That way you get a more youthful look.
And when it comes to the procedure, it takes a few seconds only. It’s quick and straightforward, and you may feel minimal discomfort. Results typically become noticeable within a few days to a week after the treatment, and they can last for about three to six months.
Also, keep in mind that Botox requires regular re-application for maximum effect. If you don’t maintain the results, the wrinkles will appear again, so get to this if you’re really ready to dedicate enough effort to regular treatments.
What are fillers?
Fillers are known as dermal fillers also, which means injectable substances are used to restore volume and fullness to specific facial areas. As we age, some parts of our face like the mouth and cheeks may look saggy, so the fillers can resolve it for us. These filters are typically made from hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in the body that helps maintain skin hydration and plumpness.
So, you can already see the difference. While Botox is a toxin that targets muscle contractions, fillers simply fill in the less-voluminous areas on our faces. They are commonly used to address static wrinkles, which are visible even when the face is at rest, as well as to enhance the lips and cheeks for a more youthful and voluminous appearance.
The good thing is that filler treatments are as quick as Botox injections. Depending on the filler amount and type, the effects may last up to six months, but quality fillers may offer up to two years of comfort and a youthful look. Also, different people have an individual tolerance for fillers, which depends on metabolism. It may easily happen to “eat up” the fillers early, so regular touch-ups are recommended.
How to make the right choice Botox vs. fillers?
When deciding whether to choose Botox or filler, you must know your problem and what you want to achieve. It would also be a good idea to test both approaches before making any changes to your body. This way, you will check the individual tolerance to the ingredients and know if something suits you or not.
However, in general, there are the following things to look out for:
- Wrinkle type – Botox is best suited for dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movements, while fillers are more effective for static wrinkles and restoring lost volume. You should also be aware of how many wrinkles you have and how they came about. This will help you in your choice.
- Facial rejuvenation – Fillers are better if you want temporary non-invasive rejuvenation. They give volume and make the skin smooth and younger, which means they have a better antiaging effect than Botox.
- Natural expressions – Observe your face and detect where the problem originated. Keep in mind that whether you use Botox or fillers, they should not change your personal appearance but rather enhance it.
- Pre-existing medical conditions – You must inform the esthetician who will perform the procedure about any health disorder. Although these are safe methods, if you have a chronic condition or immune disorder, neither Botox nor fillers are for you.
- Budget – Both are generally affordable methods, but fillers are slightly cheaper and promise more lasting results. Discuss the budgetary aspects with your cosmetic professional to determine a plan that aligns with your financial comfort.
- Treatment areas – Fillers are better for lips and cheeks for more volume. Botox is used to reduce wrinkles on the forehead and around the eyes.
- Recovery time – The procedures are short and you can literally do them during a break from work. However, you should know that redness or bruising may occur, especially after fillers. And the results become visible after a few days in any case.
- Result durability – You need to know that for both procedures you need regular touch-ups, to constantly maintain the appearance. And while Botox effects last for several months, fillers can have up to several years of results.
The verdict
Knowing that these are minimally invasive treatments, Botox and fillers are a great way to achieve a youthful appearance, even when time and age are against you. With a correctly chosen method, you will achieve smoothing of wrinkles, as well as filling in parts of the face that have lost elasticity.
Of course, you should do your research and find a professional esthetician to help you through the process. Finally, it is important that you like the result achieved and feel good about your rejuvenated appearance. And if you’re targeting multiple areas of the face, you might want to consider a combination treatment.
