When you think of wrinkles, you think of Botox, right? Botox has become a household name since being approved by the FDA in 2002 for wrinkle-reduction. It is derived from a poisonous bacteria called Botulinum toxin and is most commonly injected in the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the crows-feet. Botox works by blocking signals between the nerves and muscles, causing the muscles to relax. Because the muscles are relaxed, the wrinkles in the area become smooth.
Botox has built quite the cult-following, which we’ve seen first hand at our medspa. Our patients know exactly when they’re due back for Botox. It’s become part of many women’s beauty regimen, just like getting their hair or nails done.
Botox or try a different neurotoxin?
Allergan, the producer of Botox, has also done a great job of rewarding Botox consumers with a generous rewards program, called Brilliant Distinctions. Each time you get Botox, or purchase other services owned by Allergan, such as Juvederm, CoolSculpting, Latisse, and SkinMedica, you’re rewarded with at least $20 off the next treatment or product.
Because of its efficacy, brand-recognition, and rewards program, there’s no wonder why Botox is the market leader in neurotoxins. But three other neurotoxin brands are giving Botox a run for its money! The question is should you stick with Botox or try a different neurotoxin?
Botox competitors, Dysport, Xeomin, and Juveau, give patients more neurotoxin options. Most patients aren’t sure which brand is best for them, so we’re going to break down each one brand.
Dysport
Dysport results are very similar to Botox. There are only two main differences between the two brands. First, Dysport is diluted differently than Botox, therefore a different amount is injected. One unit of Botox is not equal to one unit of Dysport. Secondly, the Dysport molecule is smaller. The doctor or nurse injects with a different technique due to the smaller molecule size. You may see results set in faster because of the smaller molecules. Duration, however, is almost exactly the same as Botox (3-4 months.)
Xeomin
Xeomin is different from Botox and Dysport because of its composition. It is only one ingredient, Botulinum toxin A, whereas Botox and Dysport have additives. Because of the lack of additives, it is called a “naked injectable.” A benefit of a pure-form injectable is that the body is less likely to become resistant to it. Some patients have developed antibodies to Botox and Dysport. Because it doesn’t have any additives, it does not need to be refrigerated like its competitors. The onset is a little slower than Dysport and Botox, but the duration is very comparable (3-4 months.)
Jeuveau
Jeuveau, or “Newtox,” is the newest competitor of Botox. It is the most similar to Botox than any other competitor. The molecule size is the same and the toxin it’s derived from is the same as Botox. However, the strain of the toxin is different. Botox, or onabotulinumtoxinA, is made by Allergan in Ireland while Jeuveau, or pravotulinumtoxinA, is made by Evolus in South Korea. Botox and Jeuveau are prepared in the same way and injected in the same way. Unlike Dysport, one unit of Jeuveau is equivalent to one unit of Botox. Duration and onset are very similar to Botox. The biggest difference is the price. Jeuveau is strategically priced lower than Botox to gain market share. Therefore, most injectors offer Jeuveau at a lower price.
What are our thoughts?
There is no “bad” toxin. They all work, just in slightly different ways. They’re like sisters: They’re all part of the same family, they just have different personalities. We provide all of the toxins mentioned and use them as needed.
We inject the most Botox, mostly because we’re so familiar with the product, and the majority of our patients are signed up for Brilliant Distinctions, Allergan’s rewards program. Jeuveau comes in a close second. People are excited to try the “new botox.” Our whole staff was treated, and we noticed that results set in a little faster than Botox results. We experienced a wrinkle-free forehead by day 2-3, instead of 4-5 with Botox. Dr. Lamb notices he needs to put a touch more product above the outer eyebrow, as that seems to be an area that requires a higher dosage. We inject Dysport in our patients that prefer Dysprt over the others. Most of those patients tried Dysport when it was new to the market and became loyal to the brand. Finally, we inject the smallest amount of Xeomin. Most commonly it is used for patients that have a tolerance to the other brands.
Call or text 816-795-5262 to ask which one is right for you and schedule an appointment with our expert injectors!
