At FoRM Health in Portland, Oregon, we specialize in helping you look and feel your best—which may include rewinding back the clock on wrinkles using neurotoxin injections. If you’re considering injections to smooth those unwanted signs of aging, you’ve likely come across two popular options: Botox® and Xeomin®. While both yield wonderful results, they have some key differences that may influence which one is right for you. Let’s break it down.
What Do Botox™ and Xeomin™ Have in Common?
Both Botox® and Xeomin® are FDA-approved neurotoxins (derived from botulinum toxin) for the treatment of wrinkles of the forehead, frown lines (also known as “11” lines), and crow’s feet around the eyes. They work by temporarily relaxing the muscles that cause the dynamic wrinkle (wrinkle caused by movement). The result? Smoother, more youthful-looking skin. Both treatments are quick, minimally invasive, and require no downtime.
3 Key Differences Between Botox® and Xeomin®
Purity of Formulation
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- Botox®: Botox contains additional accessory proteins alongside the active ingredient, botulinum toxin. While these proteins are generally considered innocuous, they theoretically could trigger an immune response resulting in antibody formation against the proteins, potentially reducing its effectiveness over time.
- Xeomin®: Known as a “naked” neurotoxin, Xeomin® is free of added proteins, containing only the active ingredient. This pure formulation may reduce the risk of developing antibody resistance, making it a great choice for long-term use.
Stronger vs. Lighter Effect:
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- Botox®: With the additional proteins, Botox® has a greater molecular weight than Xeomin®, resulting in Botox™ having a more precise and “heavier” effect in the treated area. This feature makes it the better option for individuals with strong facial expressions or those seeking minimal to no facial movement within the treated area.
- Xeomin®: Without the accessory proteins, Xeomin™ has a more diffuse distribution within the treated area, resulting in a “lighter” land. This “lighter” effect is thought to create a more “natural” look, allowing for some muscle movement while turning down the wrinkle formation.
Onset + Duration of Results:
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- Botox®: With a slightly stronger effect, results are typically first noticed 3-5 days after treatment, though the full effect may take up to 2 weeks to settle in. On average, the results from one Botox® treatment lasts about 3 months.
- Xeomin®: The lighter quality of Xeomin® may take a few more days to settle in, typically showing up 5-7 days after treatment, with the full expression of results showing up at 2 weeks, just like Botox®. Xeomin®, however, has been reported to last longer for some patients, averaging 3.5 month duration of results. The difference in duration of effect may be attributed to the accessory proteins.
Which One Is Right for You?
The best neurotoxin for you depends on your individual needs, lifestyle, and goals. Some patients prefer Xeomin® for its pure formulation and more natural aesthetic, while others stick with Botox® for its consistent and sometimes stronger results. During your consultation at FoRM Health, Dr. Kai will discuss your aesthetic goals and help you choose the option that’s best suited for you!
Why Choose FoRM Health for Your Neurotoxin Treatments?
At FoRM Health, we combine aesthetic expertise with a holistic approach to wellness. Our goal is not just to reduce wrinkles but to enhance your natural beauty and skin health. Whether you’re new to neurotoxin treatments or looking to switch things up, you can trust us to deliver personalized care with a natural aesthetic.
Ready to smooth away wrinkles and embrace a more youthful look? Schedule your consultation at FoRM Health in Portland today!
