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Botox vs. Dermal Fillers: What’s the Difference?

If you’re considering getting injectables to improve the  appearance of your skin, you may be wondering what the  difference is between Botox and dermal fillers.

Both treatments  can help reduce wrinkles and give you a more youthful  appearance, but they work in different ways.

In this blog post,  we’ll take a look at the differences between Botox and dermal  fillers, as well as their benefits and drawbacks.

We’ll also  discuss where each treatment can be used in the body. 

What is Botox? 

Botox is a type of injectable that contains botulinum toxin. This  toxin can temporarily paralyze muscles, which is why Botox is  often used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

When injected  into the skin, Botox works by relaxing the muscles that cause  wrinkles. This can help to smooth out lines and give the face a  more youthful appearance. 

What are dermal fillers? 

Dermal fillers are injectables that contain substances like  hyaluronic acid, collagen, or fat. These substances can help to  plump up (i.e. “fill”) the skin and reduce the appearance of  wrinkles.

Unlike Botox, which works by temporarily paralyzing  muscles, dermal fillers work by filling in lines and wrinkles.

Benefits of Botox 

One of the main benefits of Botox is that it is temporary. The  effects of Botox typically last for three to six months, after  which you will need to get another treatment.

This can be seen  as an advantage or disadvantage, depending on your preference.  Another benefit of Botox is that it is relatively affordable. 

Drawbacks of Botox 

One of the main drawbacks of Botox is that it is temporary. If  you want to maintain the results, you will need to get  treatment every few months.

Additionally, Botox can cause side  effects like bruising, redness, and swelling at the injection site. 

Benefits of dermal fillers 

Dermal fillers can provide longer-lasting results than Botox,  sometimes lasting for up to 2 years.

Additionally, dermal fillers can be used to add volume to areas of the face like the cheeks or  lips. This can give the face a more youthful appearance. 

Drawbacks of dermal fillers 

Dermal fillers are more expensive than Botox. Each vial of  product generally costs around $400-$800. Dermal fillers tend  to be “used up” by the body more quickly in patients that exercise regularly.

Additionally, dermal fillers can cause side  effects like bruising, redness, and swelling at the injection site. 

Where can these be used in the body? 

Botox and dermal fillers can be used in many different areas of  the body. Common treatment areas for Botox include the  forehead, around the eyes, and between the eyebrows. Dermal  fillers can be used to plump up the lips, cheeks, and hands. 

If you’re considering getting injectables to improve the  appearance of your skin, talk to your medical provider. They  can direct you to a trained injector.

Hormones by Design is  happy to give you a FREE consultation on any aesthetic  procedure you may be interested in. Our New Braunfels location is now accepting new patients. Call 830-627-7979 to  schedule today!

Picture of  Dr. Melissa Miskell
Dr. Melissa Miskell