What can we do for you?
This is a very commonly asked question, but after reading this you will definitely know the difference.Let’s start with fillers
Dermal fillers are used to replace lost volume or to add contour and definition to your face.
Dermal fillers are a manufactured form of hyaluronic acid. You will have no doubt seen the words hyaluronic acid plastered all over face creams and even hair products, but what exactly is it and why is it so darn useful?
Hyaluronic acid is produced naturally in our bodies to help lubricate our tissues. It also plays a key role in skin health and many other functions within the body. It is in fact a sugar molecule (glycosaminoglycan) that binds with water, up to 1000 times its own weight in fact.
For this reason, injectable hyaluronic acid when used within aesthetic medicine, hydrates the skin in addition to adding volume and contour. Once injected, it goes to work to replace lost volume just about anywhere on the face. Fillers are temporary, lasting from 6 to 18 months depending on the area treated and the type of filler used. They are also reversable if you really don’t like the results.
Of course, not all injectable hyaluronic acids are the same. They come in different strengths, and this is where the skill of your injector comes in.
It is vital for your injector to understand the makeup (rheology) of each type of filler to ensure the correct “dose” is used for the area to be treated. Get this bit wrong and you will either look no different at all or look slightly bizarre. Always go to an expert who knows their stuff for any of these procedures.
Botox
Botox is a brand name for botulinum toxin, although there are also other brands on the market (kind of in the same way that you may call your Dyson a hoover when you mean vacuum).
Botulinum toxin is a protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum that prevents the release of a chemical that causes muscles to contract. This may sound terribly scary, but it may interest you to know that botulinum toxin has been used in medicine for decades to treat muscle spasms, migraines, excessive sweating, and even some forms of urinary incontinence. It is an extremely useful and effective treatment for so many conditions and has become famous for relaxing the facial muscles that lead to lines and wrinkles.
The word toxin can sound alarming, but rest assured, the doses available for medicinal and aesthetic purposes are extremely low and are not at a level that will cause any problems. Botulinum toxin has a temporary effect which wears off naturally after 2-3 months.
So, in summary, dermal fillers are used to replace volume to your face, botulinum toxin is used to relax certain muscles in your face.
Both are used for cosmetic and antiaging purposes, but the actions of each are very different. If you are considering cosmetic procedures, your chosen practitioner will be more than happy to discuss your options with you to find the best solution for your particular concerns.
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