Neurotoxins (such as Botox) and dermal fillers are sometimes
discussed interchangeably as “injectables”, which are great non-surgical
methods for treating fine lines and wrinkles.
Fillers and Botox, however, are very different in terms of
how they work and which types and severity of wrinkles they treat.
BOTOX AND OTHER NEUROTOXINS
There are several neuromodulators available – the most
popular being Botox. Among various uses, these products are effective at
eradicating wrinkles that stem from repeated facial expression including frown
lines and crow’s feet. Using low doses of a purified protein, Botox and the
other neurotoxins work by temporarily relaxing the underlying facial muscles
that cause wrinkles when they contract. When properly injected, with these
muscles relaxed, patients can smile, frown, or look surprised without the
wrinkles and creases.
DERMAL FILLERS
There are many different kinds of dermal fillers, each with
the ability to treat various signs of aging like volume loss, overly thin lips,
and fine lines and wrinkles. Instead of relaxing facial muscles like Botox,
dermal fillers work by adding temporary volume under the skin in order to fill
wrinkles and plump the skin.