We are fortunate to live in a time where we can erase or soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that come with age. Thanks to modern science and the advancements in cosmetic treatments, there are several ways to camouflage our age, enhance our appearance, and help us look as youthful as we feel.
Botox has historically been the go-to treatment for tackling the wrinkles and dynamic lines on our faces that shamelessly offer up our age to anyone we meet. You may not be aware, but there are Botox alternatives available today that can offer smoother, younger-looking skin.
Today we are going to talk about Botox alternatives, what they are made of, how they work, and how to choose the best Botox alternative to handle your cosmetic concerns.
What Is Botox And How Does It Work?
Before we look at Botox alternative brands, we are going to go over the basics of Botox so you will have a better understanding of how these others compare.
Botox is made from a neurotoxin called botulinum toxin type A, which temporarily paralyzes facial muscles by blocking the signals that are sent to the nerves. When it is injected, it prevents the muscles from contracting in response to dynamic movements, like when we smile, it can make wrinkles appear on our forehead or around our eyes.
Botox works very well and has a proven track record, but sometimes people look for Botox alternatives for one reason or another. The good news is that today they have several safe and effective alternatives to choose from.
Why Do People Use Botox And Its Alternatives?
Unfortunately, aging is inevitable, and so far, we have not found anything that can stop it. How quickly an individual’s face shows signs of aging is determined by their genetics, environment, lifestyle, and how well they take care of their skin, etc.
Many studies have been conducted about getting older in today’s society, and sadly, the results show that older people are often treated like they are no longer relevant, which makes them feel undervalued. It is no wonder that many do all they can to fight the outward signs of aging. Botox and Botox competitors offer these individuals the opportunity to reverse some visible signs of aging and even prevent wrinkles from forming in certain locations in the future.
Botox Alternative Brands
The Botox alternatives that work most similarly are Dysport and Xeomin. All are made from botulinum toxin A and contain a protein called albumin that is naturally found in human blood plasma and works by paralyzing facial muscles, but the composition of their ingredients is a bit different.
The FDA has approved two kinds of botulinum toxins for human use, including:
- Botulinum toxin A is approved for cosmetic procedures such as reducing the visible signs of aging by reducing wrinkles and lines on the face. Interestingly, this strain was originally used to treat crossed eyes, and one ophthalmologist discovered that it improved the look of wrinkles on his patients. and one reported that her headaches disappeared, which prompted further research into other uses;
- Botulinum toxin B is approved for treating medical conditions like muscle disorders.
Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport are purchased by the unit, and the number of units needed to reduce visible wrinkles and lines will vary by product, the area being treated, and each person. Xeomin and Botox are very similar in strength, and usually the units needed to treat a particular area are the same, but Dysport is more diluted, and more units must be used in each area to deliver the results desired.
Dysport
Dysport is made from a blend of abobotulinumtoxinA, albumin, and lactose, it is a more diluted blend than Botox, so it spreads faster and covers a larger area. It relaxes the muscles that would normally contract around the mouth, eyes, and forehead when the individual frowns or smiles and prevents wrinkles from forming.
Xeomin
Xeomin is also derived from botulinum toxin type A, but it does not contain other ingredients like Botox and Dysport and is considered the purest form of the treatment. The results and cost are very similar to those of Botox, but because it does not contain additional ingredients, it is a good choice for those who have built up a tolerance to Botox or tend to experience allergic reactions.
How Do Botox-Type Injectables Compare?
| Brand Name | Botox | Xeomin | Dysport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year approved by the FDA for medical use | 1989 | 2010 | 2009 |
| Year approved by the FDA for cosmetic use | 2002 | 2011 | 2009 |
| Proper care and handling | Requires refrigeration | Can be stored at room temperature but requires refrigeration once the seal is broken. | Requires refrigeration |
| How long does it take to work? | Begins to take effect in approx 48 hours, but results take 10-14 days. | Begins to take effect in approx 72 hours, but results take 10-14 days. | Begins to take effect in approx 24 hours, but results take 7-14 days. |
| How long do the results last? | All three products can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months before new injections are needed to maintain the results. The longevity of each is different for each patient and depends on the area treated, and the number of units used. | ||
| Average cost per unit | $10-15 | $10-15 | $4-8 |
| Avg units needed to treat frown lines between the brows | Between 20 and 30 units | Between 20 and 30 units | Between 50 and 60 units |
| Avg units needed to treat horizontal forehead lines | Between 10 and 15 units | Between 10 and 15 units | Between 30 and 60 units |
| Avg units needed to treat crow’s feet | Between 20 and 30 units for both | Between 20 and 30 units for both | Between 60 and 100 units for both |
What Other Alternatives to Botox for Anti-Aging Are There?
In addition to treatments that paralyze facial muscles and prevent wrinkles from forming, there are other options available that help prevent the appearance of the visible signs of aging. Some of these options include:
Dermal Fillers
These treatments are normally made of substances that are naturally found in the body, such as hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxylapatite, as well as synthetic fillers containing poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). They work by adding volume to areas that have lost their elasticity and fullness and can be used to fill in deeper wrinkles while at the same time providing lift in some areas, such as the cheekbones. Dermal fillers are a great option for those who have mild skin laxity or hollow areas due to lost volume.
Microcurrent Facials And Devices
As you get older, your skin naturally begins to change due to a reduction in collagen production, and it loses elasticity, which causes lines and wrinkles to appear. A good skincare routine and quality skincare products can help delay some of these changes, and adding microcurrent treatments to your routine can help boost these efforts even more.
Microcurrent facials are non-invasive treatments that use low-level electrical pulses to stimulate facial muscles, which strengthens them, causes them to contract, and promotes the formation of new collagen. Individuals can receive professional treatments, and there are also several at-home devices that can provide noticeable results when they are used regularly. These treatments can help reduce puffiness, smooth fine lines, and give your skin a more toned appearance.
Topical Creams And Serums
A consistent skincare routine using quality skincare products is one of the best ways to keep your skin looking smooth, toned, and healthy. Some of the ingredients that high-quality products often contain include retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants.
These topical treatments boost your body’s natural production of collagen and keep your skin well-hydrated and smooth out the surface. They do not work as well as Botox or Botox alternatives, but they can noticeably reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles if used consistently.
Professional Facial Treatments
At quality cosmetic treatment centers like SurgiCare Arts & Aesthetics, you can find a variety of professional treatments that can eliminate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on your face, refresh your appearance, and provide you with a younger-looking complexion. Some of these treatments include:
FaceTite
This minimally invasive treatment uses a special tool to send radiofrequency energy to specific areas, which uses the heat it generates to firm the skin and eliminate unwanted fat deposits at the same time. FaceTite helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, lines, and a double chin, and tones and smooths the skin.
Morpheus8 and SylfirmX
Morpheus8 and Sylfirmx treatments work similarly and use a combination of radiofrequency energy and microneedling to firm up loose skin, even out the tone and texture of your complexion, and correct flaws like scarring from acne or injury. These treatments are customizable to treat different skin tones and types and can treat even
delicate areas like under the eyes. As your body repairs the tiny micro-injuries created by the microneedling portion of the treatment, new collagen and elastin are formed, which make your results long-lasting.
Which Treatment Would Be the Best Botox Alternative For You?
Deciding the best alternatives to Botox for smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles will depend on the results you are looking for, your expectations, and your budget. If you want to use an injectable that works similarly to Botox, then Dysport and Xeomin would be good options for you.
If you have deeper lines or desire to restore lost volume to areas of your face, then dermal fillers may be the best option. Often, individuals use a combination of both to achieve the results they desire.
If you are looking for longer-lasting results, adding professional skin-firming treatments into your routine would be the way to go. Undergoing periodic Morpheus8 or SylfirmX treatments in conjunction with these popular injections can provide more dramatic and longer-lasting results.
Where Can I Get Help With Botox Alternative Injections And Other Treatments That Will Reduce Signs Of Aging?
The highly qualified professionals at SurgiCare Arts & Aesthetics can help determine the best treatment or combination of treatments that will provide the best correction for your cosmetic concerns.
The team at SurgiCare Arts & Aesthetics is committed to providing the highest quality care by using the best quality products and state-of-the-art equipment. Our team of professionals is highly qualified and has years of experience and expertise in delivering these skin-rejuvenating treatments. These injections and procedures are considered both safe and reliable but it is important to note that some individuals have experienced adverse reactions which are often due to inexperienced practitioners or injectors. You can trust that you are in expert hands with the SurgiCare Arts team and your safety and satisfaction are our top priority.
Set up a consultation to learn more about how we can help you be the best version of yourself and help you look as good and youthful as you feel.
