Five Differences Between Botox and Juvederm

Both Botox and Juvederm refer to FDA approved cosmetic procedures that use injections to reduce facial wrinkles caused by aging.  They are both very popular non surgical cosmetic treatments among celebrities and the general public alike.  And while they are both designed to achieve similar results, there are several differences between the two.  In this article we’ll list five differences between Botox and Juvederm.

Muscle Relaxer Versus Dermal Filler

Botox is a neuromodulator used to relax facial muscles that cause the appearance of wrinkles.  It’s composed of a toxin created by certain types of bacteria.  

Juvederm, on the other hand, is a volumizing solution composed of hyaluronic acid that works by filling in the spaces characteristic of wrinkles.  

The Types Of Wrinkles They Affect

Botox and Juvederm work on different types of facial wrinkles.  

For example, Botox is more effective at treating wrinkles that occur on the forehead and around the eyes.  These are known as expression lines and appear because of repeated muscular movements.  

Juvederm, however, is better suited towards wrinkles that are most noticeable when the face is at rest.  These are known as static lines.  Juvederm is often used to reduce the prominence of wrinkles around the nose, mouth and cheeks.

Duration Of Results

Results from Botox injections may take 24 to 48 hours to be noticeable.  This is because it takes time for the facial muscles to be affected by the neuromodulator.  Botox injections usually last for three to six months before follow up injections need to be administered.  

On the other hand, the gel-like consistency of Juvederm typically makes the results immediately noticeable.  The effects of a treatment can last for up to a year or two.

It’s important to understand that regardless of the type of treatment used, individual results will vary.

Cost

In general, Botox injections cost less than Juvederm injections.  Much of this has to do with the duration of results of each type of treatment.  

Side Effects

As both treatments are non-surgical, they avoid many of the risks associated with surgery.  However, there are still some side effects that may occur with each type of procedure.

With Botox, pain, swelling or slight bruising at the injection site is sometimes reported.  There can also be some numbness, weakened muscles, droopiness of the eyelids or facial asymmetry.  In rare cases botulinum toxicity can occur.  

Recipients of Juvederm treatments also sometimes report pain, swelling or slight bruising at the injection site.  Itching, rashes, lumps and discolouration can also sometimes occur.  In rare cases serious complications such as allergic reactions or tissue necrosis may occur.