In the world of cosmetic treatments, injections are one of the top choices because they’re minimally invasive, require no downtime, can be done quickly and offer amazing results. The two types of injections are BOTOX® and dermal fillers, but what is the difference between the two and how do you know which one is right for you?

Let’s take a look at this BOTOX vs fillers comparison.

What is BOTOX Cosmetic?

BOTOX is a purified protein injection that targets dynamic wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles are those caused by repeated muscle movement. These include forehead creases, frown lines and crow’s feet. BOTOX works to relax the muscles that cause these wrinkles. This muscle relaxation helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles while still being able to move and make those facial expressions.

BOTOX injections take only a few minutes and are done in the office. These injections require no downtime, and while you may experience some injection site tenderness or swelling, this goes away within a day or so and can be camouflaged up with makeup. BOTOX can last for 3 to 4 months and you can keep the look all year with repeat maintenance treatments.

What are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers work a little differently. Unlike BOTOX, dermal fillers inject a substance underneath the surface of the skin in order to fill in lines or add volume. There are a variety of different dermal fillers available, each with a different treatment goal.

For example, JUVÉDERM®Ultraplus XC works to help soften the folds that occur from the side of your nose to the corners of your mouth. Voluma, on the other hand, is a dermal filler that works great at adding volume and creating contoured cheeks.

Choosing which filler is best for you depends on your goals. The good news is that dermal filler treatments often last for a year or more.