If you’ve been on the hunt for anti-aging treatments to address lines, wrinkles or volume loss, you’ve probably come across Botox® and a number of dermal fillers. Before trying to decide which treatment option is best on your own, the experts at Anders Dermatology can explain the difference between these injectables—and how they work.
WHAT IS BOTOX?
Botox, or Botulinum toxin type A, is a neuromodulator that temporarily blocks signals from nerves to muscles. When injected into facial muscles, it stops them from making the contractions that result in lines and wrinkles. But don’t worry—while your muscles are being “frozen,” this doesn't stop your ability to make natural facial expressions.
Dysport®, a different type of neuromodulator, provides similar results—smoothing lines on the forehead and between the brows by reducing muscle activity. Botox and Dysport treatment results typically last up to six months, but this varies by patient.
WHAT ARE DERMAL FILLERS?
While the main goal of neuromodulators is to reduce lines and wrinkles by freezing the muscles you use repetitively, dermal fillers are designed to address the same signs of aging by adding volume to the face. And dermal fillers aren’t only used to improve effects of aging, but for cosmetic purposes as well, such as lip augmentation.
There’s a larger range of treatment areas dermal fillers can help—with the ability to add volume to the cheeks, lips and different areas of the face that have experienced facial volume loss. What’s unique about dermal fillers is many are composed of substances that mimic collagen and/or trigger your body to produce more of it. Over time, this production of new collagen can help prevent signs of aging from worsening or becoming more apparent. And unlike neuromodulators, results can last anywhere from a few months to a few years depending on the filler.
CHOOSING YOUR IDEAL ANTI-AGING TREATMENT
Not sure whether a neuromodulator or dermal filler is best in addressing your concerns? Thankfully, our expert staff at Anders Dermatology is here to meet with you, discuss your goals and recommend the best treatment option.
To schedule an appointment, call us at 419.473.3257—and be sure to take a look at our specials page for monthly deals on our cosmetic services!
