Dermal fillers and BOTOX Cosmetic are both aesthetic treatments administered via injections, but they are not the same. Both target certain types of wrinkles and signs of aging. An experienced dermatologist like Dr. Renuka Diwan can match you to the right injectable or filler.
BOTOX Cosmetic Explained
BOTOX Cosmetic is made from botulinum toxin type A. This neurotoxic protein is FDA-approved to treat frown lines, which are the vertical lines between the eyebrows. BOTOX Cosmetic has also been used off-label for other areas of the face ever since its inception. The most common treatment areas are:
- The frown lines (also called glabellar lines or 11s)
- Crow’s feet
- Horizontal forehead lines
- Bunny lines on the nose
BOTOX Cosmetic works by softening the muscular contractions that occur in very targeted locations when you furrow your brow, squint your eyes, smile, or otherwise contract areas of your face. BOTOX Cosmetic doesn’t create a frozen or artificial look, but instead reduces the wrinkling and folding of skin that occurs with repeated facial expressions.
When You May Want Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers smooth and soften wrinkles by restoring volume below the skin. Some types of wrinkles are not formed by muscular contractions but by a loss of volume that creates a crevice in the skin.
Dermal fillers are made of different materials, but most commonly composed of hyaluronic acid. HA is also found naturally in your body, in the joints, eyes, connective tissue, and skin. HA binds with moisture molecules to keep skin looking smooth, plump, and hydrated.
Dermal fillers are most often used for:
- Thin lips
- Nasolabial folds around the nose
- Marionette lines around the mouth
- Bags below the eyes
- Hollow cheeks
- Hollow temples
- Creases on the chin
- Acne scars
BOTOX Cosmetic and dermal fillers are sometimes used together in a comprehensive treatment plan. The right injectable – or combination of injectables – will depend on your aesthetic goals and your skin.
Consult an Experienced Injector
Dr. Renuka Diwan is a board-certified dermatologist with decades of experience in the cosmetic dermatology field. She will examine your face, listen to your goals, and help you decide which approach is right for you. To learn more about BOTOX Cosmetic, dermal fillers, and your other aesthetic options at our Westlake practice, please call our team at 440-871-9832.
