For years people have relied on Botox and dermal fillers to reverse the aging effect that comes with old age. These muscle relaxant treatments in Australia may seem pretty similar when compared regarding their functionalities. The two procedures can be applied in the treatment of wrinkles and are both administered through injections. But that is where their similarity ends. In terms of differences there are several factors that set the two procedures apart. This article will highlight some of the differences between Botox and dermal fillers.
What is Botox?
Scientifically, Botox is known as botulinum toxin, a compound that is produced by a string of bacteria called clostridium botulinum. As the name suggests, it is a toxin and therefore if used in very large amounts it may alter the normal physiological functioning of the body. Doctors have used Botox in the treatment of neurological disorders and other muscle-related illnesses. This compound was approved by the FDA and is therefore safe for cosmetic use. Currently is among the commonly used beauty treatment procedures. Since it does not involve any surgery many find it convenient and consider it before trying other methods like the use of lasers.
What does Botox do?
Botox is a muscle relaxer, the muscle-relaxing properties is what makes it to be very effective when used in cosmetic treatments. When administered to the facial muscles it causes the muscles to relax thereby limiting their movement. As a result, the muscle tension on the skin will be drastically reduced. This makes it particularly useful when dealing with facial muscles that tend to drag the face down.
When Botox is applied, it will have a lifting effect on these muscles thereby stopping them from making unnecessary movements. Apart from removing wrinkles, Botox can be used to perform other skin treatment procedures such as hyperhidrosis, which is commonly known as excessive sweating. It can achieve this function because of its ability to block sweat glands.
Patients who have gone through Botox treatment have also claimed that it stops migraines. The best part about using Botox is that it is very safe but side effects may vary from one individual to another. Most skin care experts recommend that Botox treatments should be done after your twenties to achieve the best results.
What are Dermal Fillers?
Unlike Botox, which eradicates wrinkles through the relaxation or deactivation of facial muscles, dermal fillers work by filling the affected facial areas with collagen. This is the main thing that differentiates the two cosmetic treatment procedures. Through its collagen replenishing ability, dermal fillers enable the skin to produce more collagen thereby reversing any characteristic aging effects that may have been present.
Dermal fillers are very good at adding facial volume and eliminating lines. As a result, they can be injected in the cheek region, the jawline and also around the eyes. In some cases, dermal fillers can be used to add volume to the lips, (but Botox can also be used on the lips).
What compounds are used as Dermal Fillers?
Different types of dermal fillers can be used to achieve a youthful appearance. Which type is best for you will depend on the signs of aging that are visible and the facial appearance an individual intends to achieve. The most commonly used skin fillers include Polylactic acid which is known to stimulate the dermal area of the skin leading to the production of more collagen. Hyaluronic acid can also be used when adding volume to different areas around the faces. Other gels such as Polyalkylimide can be used as fillers, as they have the same chemical properties as most fluids found in the body.
