Thinking of taking an anti-aging treatment? Confused between botox and fillers, the famous anti-ageing cosmetic procedures in the realm of cosmetology? Botox and fillers are the procedures that help in enhancing your skin and making it look younger and youthful. They help in covering the wrinkles and fine lines which are the visible signs of aging.
The two most popular cosmetic procedures that stand out are Botox and fillers. However, it's important to understand that these two treatments serve different purposes and work in distinct manners. If you're considering cosmetic interventions, it's essential to understand the differences between Botox and fillers.
To understand the difference between the two, OnlyMyHealth interacted with Dr Joy Shah, Dermatologist, Founder of Beagle Lasers, Surat.
Understanding Botox
Botox has gained widespread acceptance and popularity in the cosmetic industry for its ability to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. Botulinum Toxin, known as Botox, is a neurotoxic protein that is derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Dr Shah said, “Its primary mechanism involves temporarily paralysing or relaxing the muscles responsible for causing dynamic wrinkles, those wrinkles are formed by repetitive facial expressions like frowning or squinting.”
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Adding further Dr Shah said, “One of the key aspects of Botox treatment is its target areas. Commonly, Botox is used to treat wrinkles and lines in areas such as the forehead, between the eyebrows (glabellar lines), and around the eyes (crow's feet).”
The effects of Botox last between three to six months, post that, muscle activity gradually returns, necessitating re-treatment to maintain the results. It may take a few days to a week for the effects of Botox to become noticeable and apparent. Peak results would be visible two weeks post-injection.
Derma Fillers
Derma fillers are also known as soft tissues, are injectable substances designed to add volume, plumpness and contour to specific areas of the face. Dr Shah said, “Unlike Botox, which targets muscle movement, fillers fill in wrinkles, creases, and hollow areas, restoring lost volume and enhancing facial contours. Common filler substances include hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, and polylactic acid.”
The Difference
First and foremost difference between the two procedures is that their purposes differ significantly. Dr Shah said, “Botox primarily addresses dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement, while fillers focus on adding volume and contouring areas affected by age-related volume loss. Botox works by temporarily relaxing facial muscles, whereas fillers function by adding volume and plumping the skin.”
Adding further, Dr Shah said, “The target areas of both the treatments vary, with Botox typically targeting areas prone to dynamic wrinkles and fillers being applied to various facial regions to restore volume and enhance contours.”
Conclusion
Concluding, Dr Shah said, “While Botox and Fillers can both greatly change how you look and but their purposes and mechanisms are different.” Dr Shah emphasised to consult an expert before going ahead with any of the two procedures. Making a well-informed decision is important for getting the results you want from cosmetic treatments.