Anti-wrinkle injections, commonly referred to by the brand name Botox, and dermal fillers have long been staples in the world of aesthetic medicine and injectables. Both products offer clients incredible and desirable anti-ageing benefits, which have erroneously led to some asking if Botox is the same as dermal fillers. Without being properly informed, clients can regularly misunderstand which is the right treatment to meet their goals.
This blog will discuss the differences and similarities between dermal fillers vs. Botox to provide clarification on which treatment should be used to target different perceived concerns in your clients, allowing you to offer them the best results possible. Both practitioners and clients need to be aware of the main differences between the two treatments to avoid opting for the wrong one.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Amongst the most popular and sought-after treatments within the aesthetics market are dermal fillers. Developed to sculpt the face, enhance features, and restore facial volume loss, dermal fillers are designed to increase plumpness and volume in the injected area. The viscous formulation of dermal fillers assists in lifting and enhancing areas of the face to help correct perceived flaws and the appearance of fine lines and folds for a more youthful appearance.
Traditionally, most dermal fillers are developed with hyaluronic acid (HA), a sugar molecule that exists naturally in the body. As we age, we lose approximately 1% of our HA stores every year after the age of 30 – resulting in loss of facial volume and occurrence of fine lines. However, dermal fillers like REVOLAX work to revitalise and add volume to the skin to diminish the appearance of fine lines, helping to restore fullness in the face.
Qualified practitioners can buy REVOLAX exclusively at Fox Pharma.
In essence, dermal fillers are used to ‘fill’ the injected area – whether that be to diminish the appearance of wrinkles or to volumise the area to enhance the appearance.
What Are Anti-wrinkle Injections?
Anti-wrinkle injections are extremely popular treatments amongst clients, accounting for the largest market share within the aesthetics industry. And, with the anti-ageing market expected to grow to $65.96 billion in 2026 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2%, practitioners can only expect to increase the number of appointments they take for such treatments.
Anti-ageing injections are most frequently used to help treat signs of ageing, particularly lines that have formed because of facial movement, including frown lines.
Anti-wrinkle treatments temporarily block the chemical signal sent from the brain that works to contract the muscle of a specific area. By temporarily paralysing the facial muscles, the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles is reduced – made possible by blocking the action of acetylcholine.
Anti-wrinkle injections are made of a natural, purified protein molecule extracted from the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum, which relaxes muscles to create a smoother and more youthful appearance. Three subtly different forms of this protein are currently marketed for wrinkle reduction and depend on the brand of anti-wrinkle injection used.
Is Botox the Same as Dermal Fillers?
Put simply, no, Botox is not the same as dermal fillers. Whilst both dermal fillers and Botox can be used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, the two products have two entirely different formulations and techniques for creating a more youthful appearance. Where dermal fillers add volume to the face using hyaluronic acid (HA), anti-wrinkle injections use botulinum toxin to temporarily paralyse the muscle or muscles in the target area.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers vs. Botox Injections Last?
When comparing the differences between dermal fillers vs. Botox, one thing both clients and practitioners are keen to know is how long both treatments last. It is important to note that both injectables are temporary, unlike invasive surgery options that can be used to fix similar perceived flaws.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are temporary and reversible injectables that will dissolve naturally over time. The longevity of dermal fillers depends on various factors, such as the dermal filler range used, your client’s skin type, the injection area, the injection protocol, your client’s lifestyle and other elements.
However, the general effects of dermal fillers can last up to 12 months. Most clients report seeing results immediately. Swelling and bruising may occur post-injection, and clients should expect to see the best, most fully rested results within 48 hours.
Anti-wrinkle Injections
Anti-wrinkle injections are not permanent. The effects of this treatment will eventually wear off and allow the injected muscle to contract again. With many factors to consider – including the client, the brand of anti-wrinkle treatment used, and the area of injection – clients can expect to see results for up to six months. However, regular top-up treatments with anti-wrinkle injections can often affect how long the results may last.
It is important to note that the effects of anti-wrinkle injections are not visible straight away. Once injected, it takes time to start working and relax the muscles. Results can vary from person to person, though the effects of anti-wrinkle injections will usually start to take effect after three to five days.
Injection Sites for Dermal Fillers Vs. Anti-wrinkle Injections
Another important difference practitioners must understand before offering dermal fillers or anti-wrinkle injections is the treatment areas.
Dermal fillers are more versatile when compared to anti-wrinkle injections and can be used in multiple areas across the face. They can help to restore lost volume and enhance the features, including the lips, cheeks, chin, jaw, and nose.
Meanwhile, as anti-wrinkle injections are generally directed at treating ‘overly-expressive’ areas (such as frown lines, forehead wrinkles, and crow’s feet), these injectables tend to focus on the upper portions of the face.
Is Botox the Same as Dermal Fillers?: A Summary
With all the above to take into consideration – it is vital that clients and practitioners consider their specific goals and concerns before deciding between dermal fillers vs. Botox. As both injectables work differently and on different areas of the face, it is important to define the end goal and to decide which injectable is most suited to each individual client.
Register With Fox Pharma
Register with Fox Pharma today to access the complete REVOLAX range, alongside other dermal fillers, anti-wrinkle injections and other aesthetics supplies to stock in your clinic.
Leave A Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.