The stigma of sticking a needle in your face is gone, but from Botox to Juvéderm, not everyone knows the intricacies between the major and minor players that make up the injectables industry. Don’t worry— we’re breaking out our white lab coats and safety goggles to explain the differences between neurotoxins and dermal fillers.
Neurotoxins
While the word neurotoxin may sound scary, it’s the official title for some of your favorite treatments. Neurotoxins affect the nerve tissue in some way: most injectables are made up of botulinum toxin type A, a neurotoxin that decreases muscle activity by blocking signals from the nerves to the muscles. With the injected muscle unable to contract, the treated wrinkles relax and soften for up to six months.*
Botox
The most famous neurotoxin, Botox is a quick, common procedure used to treat crow’s feet, forehead lines, laugh lines, and other signs of aging.
Dysport
Similar to Botox, Dysport is a lesser-known neurotoxin that offers temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe wrinkles. Like Botox, the treatment is injected directly into the target facial area to prevent muscle contraction.
Dermal Fillers
Unlike Neurotoxins that freeze the treated area, injectable fillers smooth out the treated area by filling in the skin. The active ingredient found in dermal fillers is hyaluronic acid (HA), which is a naturally-occurring substance that is naturally found in the skin. Hyaluronic acid has the ability to store moisture and gives skin that plump, hydrated look. As you age, your body loses the hyaluronic acid found naturally in the body: although you may see this ingredient listed in some of your favorite skincare products, topical application can only moisturize.
Injected, however, it can restore plumpness and replenish your body’s natural production of hyaluronic acid. One injection can last up to a year and will add volume and decrease wrinkles depending on the injection site.*
Juvéderm
Juvederm can be used to treat moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, and can also be used for lip augmentation.
Restylane
Similarly, the Restylane line of products is formulated to act like your body’s own naturally occurring hyaluronic acid and restore volume to your skin or add plumpness to the lips.
If you’re curious about incorporating injectables into your routine, give us a call. During the month of February only we’re offering special promotions on our fillers and Botox. Let’s talk through all your aesthetic goals: (804) 775-4559.
