Wrinkle Relaxers | What’s The Difference?
Neuromodulators are wrinkle relaxing injections - a very popular cosmetic treatment that can take years off your face. Whether you’ve gotten treatments in the past or think you may want to try it in the future – where do you start? While Botox is the most well-known wrinkle relaxer, a.k.a. ‘tox’ - there are several others on the market. How do you know which one to get?
Your aesthetic provider (hopefully me!) is always going to be your best bet for making individualized recommendations for your face and beauty goals. However, getting educated is so important when it comes to injections or any type of cosmetic treatment. I always want my patients to feel fully informed and to ask as many questions as needed! Let me get you up to speed on these injectables.
There are 4 main wrinkle relaxers: Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jueveau, I have all of these available to you at Polished! I recommend these injectables for anyone who wants to turn back the clocks and slow down signs of aging.
Benefits of Neuromodulators
All neuromodulator injectables contain the same primary active ingredient: botulinum toxin type A. In aesthetic medicine, botulinum toxin is used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Yes, it’s derived from a bacteria - but the substance is a purified protein and it’s been proven to be safe and effective.
Lines and wrinkles form by repetitive facial movements (think smiling, frowning, and squinting).
Botulinum toxin temporarily blocks nerve receptors in the muscle, paralyzing the underlying facial muscles. By stopping muscle contractions from happening, you’re keeping new lines from forming and current lines from getting worse.
Similarities Between Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jueveau
These 4 injectables are all FDA-approved. With the same main ingredient in each you can expect similar outcomes. Your skin will be smoother as facial lines and wrinkles are reduced. The effects last a season (3-4 months).
These wrinkle relaxers all work best as a preventative aging measure. That’s right- using a tox helps to prevent the initial signs of aging. By temporarily freezing facial muscles – they no longer contract. This keeps lines and wrinkles from deepening and getting worse. This is why I recommend getting started with a tox before you have significant signs of aging!
Differences Between Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jueveau
So with the same active ingredient and similar goals - what’s the difference between these products? Isn’t it basically apples to apples? Pretty much. But you still probably choose honeycrisp over red delicious. While the differences are small and may seem insignificant - you may find you prefer one over the other!
First off, Botox, Dysport, Jeuveu, and Xeomin all come from different manufacturers. Because of this, the formulations and doses vary between each product. Let me break down the other nuances for you.
Botox, definitely has the brand recognition. As the #1 cosmetic procedure in the U.S. - Botox is a household name. It’s been around the longest, since 1992. Made by Allergan, Botox is FDA-approved for moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines. The other neuromodulators are only approved for the glabella area, which is the area between the eyes (although injectors will use them ‘off-label’ in other areas). Due to its potency Botox is the best option for small targeted areas - like crows feet.You’ll notice a difference within a couple days, with two weeks for the full effect. Results last 3-4 months before you’ll be back for touch ups.
Dysport, made by Galderma, is slightly less potent with a lower molecular weight compared to Botox. This tox has been around since 2009 and is approved for glabellar lines. Dysport is more diffuse, meaning it spreads out better, making it a good option for a larger treatment area. If you’re looking to treat your entire forehead, Dysport may be a great option. Dysport can also give more natural looking results, leaving a bit more movement. It also has a quicker onset compared to the others and can last a little longer than Botox.
Xeomin, made by Merz in 2010, is also approved for glabellar lines. Sometimes referred to as the ‘naked Botox’ - this neuromodulator doesn’t contain any additives or preservatives. This means you’re less likely to develop a resistance. If you’ve used Botox or Dysport in the past and feel the effectiveness is not what it used to be, your body may have developed antibodies against it. In this case, Xeomin may be a great alternative for you!
Jeuveau, made by Evolus, is the newest wrinkle relaxer - hitting the market in 2019. It’s also approved for glabellar lines. Jeuveau is very similar to the other neuromodulators. It’s a newer product, but still has been proven to be safe and effective. You’ll see the onset of results in 3-5 days and the effects are similar to Dysport in that they may last a little longer than Botox.
It has a little slower onset of action compared to the other neurotoxins as it may take 5-7 days to see results.
The Injector Trumps the Tox!
You might be set on a tox - but don’t shop around to find the cheapest product. The person injecting you is far more important than the tox you choose. It might be tempting to find the best deal, but a wrinkle relaxer is no good without a credentialed, experienced injector. You won’t find that expertise on Groupon.
Receiving cosmetic injections is a medical procedure that requires specific training, knowledge, and skill to administer the product safely and effectively.
This is your face! You need a professional with excellent technique who understands facial anatomy and muscle structure. The tox can’t do its job effectively if you don’t have someone who knows the correct technique, dosage, and placement.
I’d love to help you with your anti-aging goals and make a personalized treatment recommendation for you! Book an appointment with me at Polished MedSpa and we can get started!
XO, Lauren