When considering having facial aesthetic work done for the first time, you’re bound to feel a little overwhelmed. After all, there are so many considerations to bear in mind, from the various types of treatment available to the motivational triggers that have pushed you to seek out assistance in the first place.
In simple terms, there are two main types of facial aesthetic treatment, namely anti wrinkle injections, commonly know as botox®, and dermal (or facial) fillers. These are often confused as being one and the same thing, but while they share some similarities they are essentially different treatments that have been designed to tackle specific issues.
In this post, we’ll look at the core differences between Botox and dermal fillers, and ask how these nuances will help to influence your decision.
What’s in a substance? The primary differences between Botox and dermal fillers
To begin with, Botox is actually a brand name and iteration of the Botulinum Type A toxin, which is used in non-surgical anti-wrinkle treatments. In contrast, dermal fillers use the entirely natural and clinically safe substance Hyaluronic Acid, which is found in the human body and has the capacity to restore proteins such as collagen.
As you would expect, the use of alternative substances means that these two treatments work in very different ways (even if they create a similar aesthetic and range of visual effects). In the case of anti-wrinkle treatments, Botox temporarily freezes targeted muscles and blocks neuro transmitters, restricting movement and the formation of dynamic lines. Dermal fillers simply fill specific lines with Hyaluronic Acid, however, stimulating collagen growth to replace lost volume and elasticity to the skin.
How should you choose between these two treatments?
Both Botox and Hyaluronic Acid boast unique natural attributes, which naturally lend themselves to different applications. It’s important to understand this in detail, as otherwise it’s almost impossible to make an informed decision regarding your choice of treatment.
As Botox reduces the motion and visibility of lines, it’s often the best course of treatment when dealing with dynamic wrinkles. These are the wrinkles that occur when your face is in motion or being expressive, and are most likely to occur around the forehead and either side of your eyebrows. It’s interesting to note that these wrinkles are also likely to become more pronounced and visible over time, but regular Botox injections will reduce their appearance while creating smoother and younger looking skin.
Conversely, dermal fillers are most effective when used on static wrinkles, which tend to be visible even when the facial muscles are relaxed and motionless. These lines often cause areas of the face to look sunken, and therefore benefit from the fullness of dermal fillers and the stimulated growth of collagen. Commonly used to tackle smoker lines and the folds that appear around the mouth and nose, they gradually restore the volume to your skin and revive the appearance of youthful, natural beauty.
Regardless of your needs, KG Aesthetics can deliver both of these treatments in a professional, clean and clinically safe environment. Katie will also help you to determine which treatment is right for you during your consultation, so you can make an informed decision that affords you genuine peace of mind!