In the world of aesthetic procedures, neurotoxins like Botox and fillers are two of the most popular treatments for helping us defy the ageing process - so which will you choose to enhance your appearance?
For many of us, our face is our biggest asset.
After all, it's probably the first thing most people see when they meet us.
So it's intriguing to realise just how much this important marker of our identity can evolve over time. However, while the lines and creases our faces gain as we age are simply a natural development of life, some may feel a little troubled by these changes.
While plastic surgery is certainly an option, it may seem a little too extreme (and expensive) a procedure just to get rid of a little crow's feet. So if you're feeling some trepidation over it, but would still like to return some youthfulness to your skin, less invasive treatments like Botox and dermal fillers might just do the trick.
Botox vs Fillers: How They Differ
Botox and fillers are non-surgical procedures with minimal downtime, and are both given through injections. However, there are key differences between them, and understanding them is essential.
Botox: Relaxing Muscles
Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin, which can be used in small, controlled doses to manage cosmetic concerns, including ironing out lines. When injected into specific facial muscles, it will block the nerve signals that causes muscle contraction, thus preventing them from making the repetitive movements that create wrinkles.
It is mainly used in the treatment of dynamic wrinkles, which are wrinkles that form as a result of facial movements like frowning or smiling.
The most common concerns in which Botox is used include:
* Crow's feet (around the eyes)
* Frown lines (between the eyebrows)
* Forehead lines
Fillers: Adding Fullness
Dermal fillers, on the other hand, are substances injected into the skin to restore volume and fullness. Rather than halting muscle movement, they target the structural parts of the face. They have a plumping and smoothing effect, helping to "fill in" lines, wrinkles and hollow areas.
Fillers can contain hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the skin, as well as calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, or even collagen.
Fillers are typically used for:
* Smile lines
* Lip enhancement
* Acne scars
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, both of these procedures are designed to treat different types of wrinkles. While Botox controls the flexing of muscles that cause lines, fillers reduce their appearance in place of lost collagen and elasticity.
But before settling on either Botox or fillers, there are a few other factors you should consider, one of them being cost. Botox treatments can start from S$300, while fillers are a little more expensive, ranging between $600 to $1000. This cost may vary depending on the clinic you go to and the brand of the injectable used.
The longevity of the results also differs. The effects of Botox generally last 3 to 4 months. As for fillers, while the length of time can vary, it normally lasts between 9 to 12 months.
What Are the Risks?
It should be noted that while these injectables are safe, especially when performed by a qualified healthcare professional, they do come with some potential side effects.
Risk Factors Associated With Botox
* Headaches
* Nausea
* Eye irritation, or even drooping eyelids
* Difficulty speaking, swallowing, or breathing
* Muscle weakness
Severe side effects involve cardiovascular complications, or the toxin spreading to other parts of the body, resulting in infection.
Risk Factors Associated With Fillers
* Itchiness
* Numbness
* Infection
* Sores
* Allergic reactions, such as rashes, gastrointestinal symptoms, or shortness of breath
In more severe cases, the injection might accidentally enter a blood vessel, which can lead to tissue death, blindness, and even stroke.
You may also experience swelling or bruising around the injection site following either treatment, which should subside over time.
The Best Choice for You
At the end of the day, the decision comes down to your personal aesthetic goals and concerns. Since Botox and fillers deal with different cosmetic aspects, they can even be used together.
Just don't get too many injections - you probably won't like the results. Too much Botox might make your face look frozen, or make you look shocked all the time, while patients who get more fillers than they require might end up looking puffy.
Remember that the aim isn't to completely change your appearance, but to enhance the natural beauty you already possess. While Botox and fillers can definitely help you look and feel your best, the most beautiful version of yourself is one that feels comfortable in your own skin.
Visit our Aesthetics Page to learn more about all things Aesthetics, and take the quiz to find out what your skin needs to feel its best.