If you’re looking to reduce wrinkles, you might be considering Botox or Xeomin. 

Both are popular treatments that relax facial muscles to smooth out lines, but they have some differences that might help you decide which one is right for you.

What’s the Main Difference?

The biggest difference is in how they’re made. Both Botox (also known as OnabotulinumtoxinA or Vistabel) and Xeomin (IncobotulinumtoxinA) use a substance called botulinum toxin type A to relax muscles. However, Xeomin is a “naked” formula, meaning it doesn’t have the extra proteins that Botox has. This simpler formula might make Xeomin less likely to cause allergies.

How Do These Treatments Work?

Botulinum toxin works by blocking signals from nerves to muscles. When the muscles can’t move, the skin above them relaxes, and wrinkles become less noticeable. This works best on “dynamic wrinkles,” which are lines caused by facial expressions like smiling, frowning, or squinting.

Common treatment areas include:

• Forehead lines
• Crow’s feet (around eyes)
• Frown lines between eyebrows
• Neck bands

Results usually start to show within a few days, with full effects visible in about 1-2 weeks. The effects last around 3-4 months before you’ll need another treatment.

What Are Botox and Xeomin Used For?

Both treatments are great for smoothing out wrinkles, but they can also be used for other things:

• Botox: Besides wrinkles, Botox can help with chronic migraines, eye twitching, and even overactive bladder.
• Xeomin: This is often used for frown lines and can also help with conditions like neck muscle spasms and eye twitching. Xeomin works well above the brow for forehead lines (wifi lines) whereas Botox can sometimes make you feel heavy in the lower forehead.

Which One Should You Choose?

Here are some things to think about when deciding between Botox and Xeomin:

1. Allergies: If you’ve had reactions to other treatments, Xeomin’s simpler formula might be better for you.
2. Long-Term Use: If you’ve been using Botox for a while and feel like it’s not working as well, Xeomin might be a good alternative.

Your injector can help you decide which one is best based on your needs and goals.

What’s the Treatment Like?

Getting Botox or Xeomin is quick and easy. The process usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Your nurse will use a tiny needle to inject the treatment into the muscles that cause wrinkles.

You might feel a slight pinch, but it’s not very painful. Some people notice redness or swelling afterward, but this usually goes away in a day or two.

Aftercare Tips

After your treatment, follow these tips to get the best results:

• Don’t rub or massage the treated area for 24 hours.
• Avoid heavy exercise, saunas, or hot showers for a day.
• Stay upright for a few hours after the treatment.
• You can usually go back to your normal activities right away.

How Long Do Results Last?

Both Botox and Xeomin last about 3-4 months. After that, you’ll need another treatment to maintain the results. Some people find that with regular use, the effects last longer over time.

Are There Side Effects?

Both treatments are safe when done by a trained professional, but there can be some mild side effects, like:

• Redness or swelling at the injection site
• Bruising
• Headaches

Serious side effects are rare, but it’s important to talk to your doctor about any concerns you have.

Final Thoughts

Botox and Xeomin are just two of several neuromodulators (also called neurotoxins or tox treatments) available.

Botox and Xeomin are both great options for reducing wrinkles and enhancing your appearance. Xeomin’s simpler formula might be better for some people, especially if they’ve had issues with Botox in the past. 

Your injector can help you choose the best treatment for your needs.

Remember, the results aren’t permanent, so you’ll need regular treatments to keep your skin looking smooth and refreshed. Always go to a qualified professional to make sure you get the best results safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Side Effects: Both treatments may cause temporary bruising, swelling, or headaches.
• Procedure: The injection process is quick and similar for both.
• Duration: Results typically last 3-4 months for both treatments.