Dermal Fillers and Wrinkle Relaxers are not the same. Dermal fillers restore lost volume, fill wrinkles, and add plumpness, while Wrinkle Relaxers reduce underlying muscle activity to achieve a “relaxed” look smoothing out existing lines. In terms of popularity, both Wrinkle Relaxers and Dermal Fillers are at the top of the list of anti-aging solutions. However, they both act very differently and address different conditions.
A Brief Explanation of What Dermal Fillers and Wrinkle Relaxers Are
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers such as Juvederm® are gel-like substances that restore lost volume, fill wrinkles, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours. Fillers are injected at different depths and spaces to restore a smoother appearance and reduce the signs of aging.
Wrinkle Relaxers
Wrinkle relaxers such as Botox® and Dysport® are known as neuromodulators and work by temporarily reducing the activity of the underlying facial muscles that cause frown lines and wrinkles. By relaxing these muscles they are able to smooth out the wrinkles.
For a more in-depth explanation, you can also read: What Are Dermal Fillers (And What They Can Do For You)?
The Pros and Cons of Each
Dermal Fillers
Pros
- The procedure can take between 30 – 45 minutes
- Minimal downtime
- Restore volume and looks natural
- Fillers can last longer
- Procedure is safe
Cons
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women might be advised to avoid
- Side effects from being injected by a needle (same as Botox)
- Bruising and swelling might occur around the site
- Dermal fillers are more expensive than wrinkle relaxers
Wrinkle Relaxers
Pros
- No more Frozen Faces
- Modern procedures provide natural and youthful looks
- No downtime associated with the procedure
- Treatments can last 3 to 4 months
- Can help treat Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
Cons
- You shouldn’t get treatment if you have known nerve or muscle damage
- You might experience bruising and minimal swelling around the injection point
- Botox wears off, but it cannot be reversed if you don’t like the results
See Dermal Fillers and Wrinkle Relaxers
Which One Is The Best One For You? Wrinkle Relaxers or Dermal Fillers?
Whether a treatment like Juvederm or Botox will work best for you will depend on your specific case.
Are you trying to restore some of the lost volumes on your cheeks? Are you trying to iron out fine lines around your lips? Do you want to reduce sagginess around your eyes? Do you have a preexisting condition?
All these factors come into play when deciding which treatment will work better for you and how you should proceed.
General recommendations include:
- Informing your doctor about current medication.
- Avoiding over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, Motrin, ibuprofen, and Aleve.
- Avoiding supplements like Ginkgo Biloba, Ginseng, and Vitamin E.
- Do not wax, bleach, or use hair removal creams up to 2 days prior.
- Do not drink alcoholic beverages 24 hours prior to the procedure.
Recommendations can change depending on your specific needs. For example, it is recommended that you do not take aspirin or other blood-thinning medication unless it’s prescribed (meaning that you should keep taking it).
Both Are Excellent Choices But Not Both Can Be The Right For You
Overall, both anti-aging treatments are an excellent solution to make your face look younger and naturally beautiful. But, before deciding which one is the right for you, speaking with your doctor and getting professional guidance is the best you can do to decide how you should proceed.
