Botox® vs. Juvederm® – What is the Difference?

Aug. 22, 2012 - PRLog -- When looking to remedy the results of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, one of the most popular skin rejuvenation solutions can be obtained through a series of injectable fillers like Botox® or Juvederm®. Both injections provide a quick and effective way to achieve younger looking skin—as they are both used to treat problem areas like crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles and frown lines—but what is the real difference between the two? The truth is they are both highly effective, non-permanent skincare treatments, but differ in a few important ways. Juvederm® and Botox® vary in how long the effects of the treatment will last, in their potential for adverse side effects, and most importantly, in their chemical composition. Although both provide the same ultimate result of younger looking skin, the way in which this is achieved varies significantly.

Botox® products are mainly comprised of botulinum toxin type A, which is a toxin that blocks a certain chemical in the muscle of the affected area. The neuromuscular blocking toxin prohibits muscle response, causing temporary paralysis at the injection site, and thus creating a smoother appearance in the skin. Juvederm® on the other hand is a hyaluronic acid-based injection that is used to fill in the affected area—essentially plumping the deteriorated skin tissue that has caused fine lines and wrinkles to develop. Although both dermal injections use different methods to obtain a rejuvenated complexion, the resulting appearance of the treated skin is very similar.

Although both procedures are proven to be safe, there are risks of certain side effects for both. Botox® is a minimally invasive procedure that can take as little as five minutes, but may cause mild soreness and slight bruising at the injection site. In rare cases, an allergic reaction to the botulinum toxin may result in more serious complications, but the most commonly reported effects include slight discomfort, headache, eye and mouth dryness, and fatigue. Botox® is thought to be one of the most reliable products of this nature because it has been on the market much longer than a lot of the comparative dermal fillers. Juvederm® is a similar procedure that takes about 15-25 minutes, and common side effects include swelling and slight discomfort. Since it comprised of a substance that is already naturally occurring in the skin, there are typically less adverse reactions than Botox®.

Juvederm® takes affect almost immediately, continuing to improve the skin’s appearance over a few days after the procedure, and can last anywhere from 6 to 12 months. The results of Botox® injections will begin to show after a few days, as well, and can last anywhere between three to six months. Because Botox® injections do not last as long as Juvederm®, it does require more frequent maintenance, but there are different upsides to both.

If you are looking for a viable way to rejuvenate your skin, you should not hesitate to consult a qualified doctor. At Boston Cosmetic Surgery Center, board certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Edwin Ishoo is available for a complimentary, no obligation consultation to discuss your goals, present options, answer any questions you may have, and determine what type of treatment is best suited for you. Boston Cosmetic Surgery Center operates in Greater Boston and has two facilities in Marshfield, MA and Brookline, MA. For more information or to schedule a free consultation call (888) 875-1845 or visit http://www.BostonCosmeticSurgeryCenter.com.