Facial Fillers vs. BOTOX®: Which Is Better?

How does BOTOX^® compare to facial fillers like Juvederm^®? The Little Rock-based Dermatology Group of Arkansas team knows that many patients—especially those who are new to cosmetic treatments and trying injectables for the first time—may be unsure of the difference between fillers and BOTOX^®. Although both options are injectables (cosmetic treatments injected through a needle) and are complementary, fillers and BOTOX^® are not the same thing.

When we consider how a person’s appearance can impact their self-esteem, it makes sense that so many are searching for ways to counteract signs of aging.

This post will cover the basics, such as the differences and similarities between fillers and BOTOX^®.

What Is BOTOX^®?

BOTOX^® is a brand name for a type of botulinum toxin type A injection. It is one among several botulinum toxin injections—also called neurotoxins or neuromodulators—that are used to reduce facial wrinkles or provide other health benefits. Botulinum toxin, which is the primary active ingredient, is produced by the clostridium botulinum bacterium, which is an organism that occurs naturally in the environment. BOTOX^®, which contains small, purified doses of botulinum toxin, is injected into a shallow area directly into the desired muscles that are causing the wrinkles.

The active ingredient inhibits certain nerves that tell muscles to contract. By preventing these messages, the muscles function differently and won’t tense up as much. BOTOX^® temporarily relaxes the muscles in the forehead and around the eyes that are causing wrinkles. This reduces or softens the associated lines, known dynamic wrinkles or expression wrinkles. These are lines that are caused by constant, repetitive facial expressions or movements. Squinting, smiling, furrowing the brow, and more can all eventually cause wrinkles to develop. These wrinkles are most visible when the face is moving. Some examples include crow’s feet, forehead lines, and frown lines. 

What Are Facial Fillers?

Facial fillers or dermal fillers are gels that that add volume where injected, typically to address wrinkles and creases in the skin. They’re designed for certain types of facial lines, known as static wrinkles. Unlike dynamic wrinkles, static wrinkles develop because of causes unrelated to repetitive facial expressions—typically a loss or breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin as a result of sun damage, pollutants, stress, gravity, smoking, a poor diet, slowing skin cell production, and reduced production of important proteins. Some examples of static wrinkles include nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and lipstick lines.

Facial fillers literally fill in space beneath the skin, adding some volume and lift and giving the surface a plumper look. By doing so, they can reduce wrinkles and give the skin a smoother, younger, and more revitalized look. Fillers are also used to add definition to facial contours or augment areas like the lips and cheeks. There are several collections of hyaluronic acid fillers available. Within each collection, there are fillers of different consistencies so that the right one can be chosen for each area of the face. 

Which Wrinkle Treatment Should I Choose? 

The main difference between neuromodulators and fillers is the conditions they treat. Generally, if you want to treat dynamic wrinkles, the best option will be BOTOX^®, while facial fillers work best for static wrinkles. Many patients choose to have neuromodulators first because dynamic wrinkles typically appear earlier in life than static wrinkles and they’re a great entry-level injectable if you’re trying cosmetic treatments for the first time and want to minimize fine lines. That said, the best treatment for you depends on your goals. Also, remember that neuromodulators and fillers can be used in conjunction as complimentary treatments. 

Would you like to learn more about how to improve your skin with dermal fillers, muscles relaxers, or both? Contact Little Rock’s Dermatology Group of Arkansas for more information about injectable fillers and other types of wrinkle treatments. Call 501-227-8422 to request a consultation and learn more about ways to address wrinkles and other skin imperfections.