If you're searching for ways to get a slightly more youthful appearance without having to undergo a full facelift, you may have run across material on both Botox and dermal fillers. While these non-surgical cosmetic options are both administered via injections directly where they're needed in the face, there are essential differences between them. The medical professional administering the injections can tell you which option will work best for each area of the face, but understanding the basic differences will help you know what to expect during your consultation.
Settling Muscle-Based Wrinkles: Botox
Some lines in the face are distinctly caused by facial expressions. When you squint your eyes or smile broadly on a regular basis, certain muscles in the face will form deeper grooves under the surface of the skin. Botox is designed to reduce this movement and relax the facial muscles. The result is a reduction in the depth and visibility of lines like the vertical wrinkle that can form between the eyebrows. Anyone experienced in administering these injections can easily determine if this kind of muscle reaction is the cause of a particular wrinkle or not.
Filling in Lost Fullness: Dermal Fillers
In contrast, dermal fillers are meant to mimic the natural look of subcutaneous fat under the skin. This fat is most abundant when you are young and is lost over time no matter what you do. Losing a lot of weight can also give you a slightly more aged look as your skin relaxes, which is countered with the use of dermal fillers. Careful placement of the filler allows for the filling of both fine and deep lines that are due to slack in the skin and not repetitive facial expressions. A light treatment over a larger area, like the cheeks and chin, can create a subtle youthful boost without any overtly noticeable changes.
Plumping Persistent Wrinkles: Both Options
For some wrinkles that combine both a loss of plumpness and underlying muscle tension, you may need both fillers and Botox for the effects you want. Discuss your desired appearance with the professional handling the injections so you know what to expect. In most cases, combining both treatments across the face will result in the most comprehensive yet realistic effects in the end. You can also start with one type of treatment and then expand into the other during different appointments to reduce the chance of reactions and make recovery as quick as possible.
For more information about facial Botox, contact a local professional.
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