Ready to hit pause on those fine lines and wrinkles? Or maybe your cheeks just need a little lift, just like your mood after a good cup of coffee. Here you are in the world of Botox and fillers that can actually make a ton of difference through a tiny injection. But, before you dive into this age-defying process, it’s important to know the basics. Botox and fillers may sound like the same magic wand, but they work their magic in totally different ways.
Let’s break it down, so you can figure out which one will let you look like the best version of yourself without overthinking it! This will allow you to make an educated choice as to which treatment suits your needs best.
What is Botox?
Botox is a cosmetic procedure done with the aim of relaxing muscles. Botox is derived from a neurotoxin called botulinum toxin. It can act as a blocker for signals between nerves and muscles upon injection into certain regions. The result is that muscles cannot contract, thus softening the wrinkles to a minimal appearance.
It is primarily applied to dynamic wrinkles, which are formed by repeated facial movements in persons who smile and frown. These wrinkles show their appearance mostly over the forehead, around the eyes, and mouth. Botox does not add volume but rather smoothes wrinkles by limiting its movement beneath.
How Do Dermal Fillers Work?
Dermal fillers work in a different way than Botox. While Botox relaxes the muscles, fillers add volume and fullness. Most fillers are actually made from hyaluronic acid, a substance already contained in your skin. They’re injected underneath the surface of the skin to plump up hollowing-out areas as you age.
Fillers are good for treating static wrinkles. These static wrinkles come from aging and skin elasticity loss. One can regain a full look of cheeks and lips or even refresh the under-eye region with fillers. It could also smoothen deep lines around the smile lines among others, thus improving facial contour.
Best Areas to Treat with Botox
Botox works very well in any area of the face where the muscles create wrinkles. One of the most common areas is the forehead, where people tend to develop horizontal lines from raising their eyebrows. Botox can also help with crow’s feet, the small lines that form at the outer corners of the eyes. Another popular treatment area is the frown lines, also known as “11s” which form between the eyebrows when you squint or concentrate.
These areas respond well to Botox because the muscles creating the wrinkles relax. Temporarily stopping the movement of that muscle, the skin then looks smoother and more youthful. Botox is ineffective with wrinkles created from sagging skin or loss of volume. That’s where fillers come in.
Best Areas to Treat with Fillers
Dermal fillers will fill out an area of the face that has lost volume. Through aging, one loses fat and collagen in the skin, thus making his or her face appear hollow or sunken. Fillers will replace that lost volume and give a full, lifted look to the face.
One of the most common areas for fillers is the cheeks. Over time, the cheeks can flatten, and fillers help to lift and contour this area. Fillers are also frequently used to plump up the lips, giving them a more youthful and fuller appearance. Another popular use is filling in deep lines, such as the nasolabial folds, which run from the sides of your nose to the corners of your mouth.
How Long Do Botox and Fillers Last?
Results vary, from Botox to fillers. However, results from Botox generally last three to four months. Subsequently, that effect subsides, and the muscle begins to regain movement. One would need to do frequent touch-ups to maintain a smooth wrinkle-free look.
Fillers, however, seem to be a little more long-term. Side effects can last anywhere from six months up to a year, depending on the type of filler and area being treated. Like Botox, regular maintenance sessions are needed to keep your results fresh.
Choosing the Right Treatment
Though both Botox and fillers can make truly great results, they work in two completely different ways. Some people even choose to combine both treatments to achieve balanced, youthful results. Best of all, a professional consult can usually let you know what treatment option might suit you best.
In a nutshell, Botox and fillers are powerful cosmetic tools that can help you look younger and refreshed. Both treatments are safe, and effective, and can be customized to meet your unique needs. Always consult a licensed professional to guide you toward the right choice for your beauty goals.
Experience luxury aesthetics at Bliss & Bloom Medical Aesthetics in South Orange County. Book your Botox in San Clemente treatment today and let Dr. Yalda Sedghi elevate your beauty!