Comparing Injectables: BOTOX® Cosmetic vs. Juvederm®
Thanks to modern advances in medicine and technology, surgery is no longer the only option for making an aging face look younger. If you’re new to the idea of nonsurgical options, such as injectables, you may be wondering which is the right choice for your unique needs. The two most well-known, FDA-approved products in these categories, BOTOX® and Juvederm®, aren’t interchangeable. Each treatment is formulated to treat specific aging concerns. To determine the right one for you, it’s best to do your own research in addition to talking to a qualified physician. When it comes to non-surgical cosmetics like Juvederm® or BOTOX® in the Philadelphia area, the Cirillo Cosmetic Dermatology Spa team routinely explains treatment options to patients seeking more information.
Uses
BOTOX® is a neuromodulator, while Juvederm® is a dermal filler. Fillers add volume under the skin, while neuromodulators influence signals from nerves to They are often used together for optimal anti-aging effects. BOTOX® is mainly used for the upper third of the face, but can also be used for the lower third of the face. Juvederm® tends to be primarily used for the treatment of the middle and lower parts of the face.
Wrinkles fall into two categories: dynamic and static. When it comes to dynamic wrinkles, the goal is to relax the muscles that cause the skin to wrinkle during facial expressions. Dynamic wrinkles are targeted with BOTOX®. On the other hand, for those wrinkles resulting from volume loss—whether from intrinsic aging or extrinsic aging—Juvederm® is a better option.
BOTOX® temporarily relaxes facial muscles by preventing nerve signal transmission to the muscles. It is FDA approved for the treatment of three types of wrinkles around the eyes and forehead: “crow’s feet,” “11s,” and forehead lines. In addition to its cosmetic applications, BOTOX® is also prescribed for the treatment of muscle spasm disorders such as cervical dystonia, muscle stiffness or spasticity, uncontrolled blinking, nerve disorders, chronic migraines, and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
Juvederm® sculpts and contours the face and reduces moderate to severe static wrinkles, such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines. It can also enhance facial features, such as the “apples” of the cheeks, jawline, chin, and lips. The various types of Juvederm® have a gelatinous consistency which add fullness beneath the skin to soften hollows and restore volume depletion.
Ingredients
BOTOX® injections contain a very minute amount of refined botulinum toxin, which is derived from a bacterium known as Clostridium botulinum. This substance temporarily blocks the chemical messengers that signal muscle contractions.
The primary ingredient in Juvederm® is hyaluronic acid. This molecule is naturally present in the human body and is designed to provide lubrication and cushioning for various tissues. Each molecule can hold many times its own weight in water. This property allows it to maintain supple, plump skin.
Candidates
Most adults of all ages who do not have active infections at the treatment site, bleeding disorders, or allergies to the ingredients contained in the drugs are good candidates for Juvederm® or BOTOX®. Women should inform their doctor if they are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Procedure
Only highly trained, qualified medical professionals should administer injectables. BOTOX® and Juvederm® are superficial treatments that require minimal pre- and post-procedure care. Your provider will give you written pre- and post-care instructions. Patients heal quickly and return to their normal activities almost immediately after a treatment session. Thin needles are used to transfer BOTOX® to the neuromuscular tissue. Cannulas are often used to inject Juvederm® into specific layers of skin. The effects of BOTOX® typically last for three to six months. Juvederm® products are FDA approved to last from one to two years, depending on which specific Juvederm® filler is used.
Want to learn more about the benefits of BOTOX® and other injectable wrinkle-reducers? The Philadelphia area’s Cirillo Institute team can answer questions or address specific concerns. To arrange for a consultation, contact the Cirillo Cosmetic Dermatology Spa by calling 610-525-0500 or visit the website to send them a message.