Botox and Xeomin are two of the most popular anti-aging injectable treatments used in the world today. Both injectable products are used for much the same purpose, but there are a few key differences between them that make one injectable a better choice for certain individuals.
What Are Botox and Xeomin?
Botox and Xeomin are injectable neuromodulators comprised of botulinum toxin, a bacteria-derived neurotoxin. These versatile injectable treatments reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Specifically, Botox and Xeomin are used to treat wrinkles and lines that have formed over years of repetitive facial movements, such as frown lines or crow’s feet. These movements contribute to wrinkles because when your muscles contract, they cause the skin to fold.
Botox and Xeomin both cause temporary muscle paralysis. When injected into specific facial muscles beneath the skin, those muscles can no longer contract, resulting in smoother, more youthful-looking skin. In addition, deep facial lines become less prominent with the added benefit of preventing more facial lines from forming.
Botox and Xeomin results are temporary, lasting for three to six months.
The Difference Between Botox and Xeomin
The main difference between Botox and Xeomin is their formulation. Botox contains additives and proteins, whereas Xeomin does not. In the Botox formula, these additional proteins help form a protective complex that helps the toxin do its job. However, while these protective proteins may be useful initially, it’s believed they are responsible for Botox injections to stop having their desired effects. Some people develop antibodies to these protective proteins, which is believed to reduce the effectiveness of Botox treatments.
Since Xeomin doesn’t contain these additional proteins, people are less likely to develop antibodies, making them less likely to develop resistance to treatment. For this reason, patients who have stopped responding to Botox treatments find that Xeomin’s purer formula provides them with their desired results.
What Can Botox and Xeomin Treat?
Botox is mostly used for cosmetic purposes, including:
- Wrinkles
- Fine lines
- Frown lines
- Crow’s feet
- Forehead lines
On the other hand, Xeomin injections can be used for both cosmetic and medical treatments, including:
• Glabellar lines (the lines between the eyebrows)
- Migraines
- Overactive bladder
- Muscle stiffness
- Excess drooling
Do Xeomin Treatments Last as Long as Botox?
Yes, even without the added proteins, Xeomin lasts just as long as Botox treatments. Botox treatments typically last anywhere from three to six months, while Xeomin lasts a similar amount of time or a bit longer.
Both treatments can be repeated once the effects have worn off. The benefit of Xeomin is that because no additives act as preservatives, the body doesn’t build up antibodies to the treatment allowing results to last longer than Botox injections.
Can Botox and Xeomin Be Combined?
Different types of neurotoxins should not be combined when receiving a botulinum toxin treatment. If you’re interested in trying Botox or Xeomin, start with one and try the other once the effects of your previous treatment have worn off. Then, when you consult Dr. Naz, you can discuss your treatment needs and aesthetic goals. Together, you will determine the best treatment plan for you.
Botox and Xeomin Treatments in Northern Vancouver, BC
If you’ve been searching for a non-invasive, anti-aging treatment to help eliminate wrinkles and fine lines, Botox or Xeomin treatments can help restore a smooth, youthful look to your skin. Our team will happily assist you by scheduling a consultation with our board-certified physician, Dr. Naz, at your earliest convenience. We look forward to working with you soon!
