What is the Difference Between Botox and Dermal Fillers?

At first glance, Botox (botulinum toxins) and dermal fillers may look similar. Both are administered via injection, both are used to combat the signs of aging and both are great alternatives to surgery. But while they may look similar from the outside, Botox and dermal fillers work very differently under the surface. But what makes them different from each other?

Botox: A Tried And True Anti-Aging Solution

First, let’s start with Botox. Chances are you’ve heard of it, but what does it do? Botox Cosmetics has been a household name in dermatology for decades with millions of procedures performed each year. Aimed at correcting wrinkles around the expression lines on the upper half of the face (think forehead creases and wrinkles in between the eyebrows), Botox is an effective way to take years off of your appearance with a single procedure.

How Does Botox Work?

Botox is a neurotoxin. When injected, neurotoxins can prevent muscle movements by blocking signals to the nerves that control them. By applying a neurotoxin to the area of concern, your provider can correct and relax wrinkles and creases associated with repeated muscle movements.

Results can be seen in just 2-5 days, and unlike surgery, Botox is minimally invasive. Optimal outcomes occur in about 2-weeks, with results lasting anywhere from 3-6 months.

Dermal Fillers: Customizable Solutions for Volume Loss

If your concerns extend beyond expression lines, dermal fillers may be the answer. At Capital Laser and Skin Care, we can offer a wide variety of dermal fillers designed to combat different issues and different target areas. We offer many treatments, all designed to meet your needs. Here are some of our most popular:

• Juvederm Voluma: Adds volume to the cheeks, resulting in a youthful appearance. 
• Juvederm Volbella: Softens vertical lip lines and enhances lip volume.
• Juvederm Vollure XC: Flattens labionasal folds or “smile lines.”
• Restylane: A hyaluronic acid-based treatment that enhances lips and smoothes away wrinkles.
• Restylane Defyne and Restylane Refyne: Elastic fillers designed for areas of movement in the face.
• Belotero Balance: Smoothes surface lines and wrinkles in the lips and face.

Dermal fillers are optimal for treating volume loss and moderate wrinkles across the face. You can also combine treatments to help meet your specific needs, streamlining your experience into a single office visit.

You’ll be able to see near-instant results that offer some same-day improvement. As with Botox, optimal outcomes can appear in about two weeks. Dermal fillers can last anywhere from 6-months to 2+ years depending on your individual treatment.

What’s Right For Me?

It’s important to consider your options. If you’re considering Botox or dermal fillers and are unsure of what is right for you, consult our Dermatologists at Capital Laser and Skin Care. Our skilled, highly-qualified staff is here to help you look and feel your best. Your issues and concerns are unique and by your first screening, you’ll be on the right path to reach your aesthetic goals.

Take the Next Step

Interested in learning more about Botox or Dermal fillers? We would love to speak with you. Please fill out the form on this page to request a consultation or call our Chevy Chase, MD office today at (301) 798-9699 to schedule your private consultation at our laser and cosmetic dermatology center, located just blocks away from Washington, D.C.