Botox vs Restylane: Which One Is Better For You?

We all want smooth skin and full cheeks, but not all of us are lucky enough to have these natural features. Therefore, some of us seek help from a good dermatologist.

In this article, we are going to talk about two of these treatments called Botox and Restylane. Both of them have their pros and cons. If you are not sure which one you should go for, this guide may help you.

What Is Botox?

Botox is another popular cosmetic injectable that contains botulinum toxin(1) and can be completed in only one session. This substance’s role is to stop muscle activity by blocking the signals between the muscles and nerves by using a fine needle into target areas.

Usually, Botox is an excellent treatment to treat facial creases and wrinkles(2). Apart from this, it helps reduce neck spasms, overactive bladders, excessive sweating, and a lot of skin-related problems.

Read: Benefits of Non-Surgical Anti-Aging

Pros of Botox

Unlike Restylane, Botox is more dynamic, which means it can help reduce different types of dynamic wrinkles, such as those around the mouth and the forehead. Aside from reducing wrinkles, Botox can help treat several conditions, including Bells Palsy and migraine pain. Apart from this, patients with hyperhidrosis can use this treatment to reduce excessive sweating.

The function of Botox treatment is quite simple. The injection acts as a barrier between the target muscles and the brain of the patient. In other words, Botox shields our sweat glands to prevent excessive perspiration and moisture. And the same process helps smooth out wrinkles on the face.

Cons of Botox

Although Botox is a safe treatment, problems may happen if the treatment is not done correctly. Therefore, it is essential to hire a qualified board-certified dermatologist, registered nurse, or plastic surgeon to perform the treatment. This way, the procedure will be more likely to succeed and help prevent the treated area from getting unnaturally stiff.

The expert must consider many factors before determining dosage and administering the injections, such as the patient’s sex, weight, height, and existing conditions.

Only a fraction of patients who get this treatment face allergic reactions. On the safe side, patients who are pregnant, are overly sensitive to botulinum toxin, or suffer from a neuromuscular disorder shouldn’t get this treatment.

Also, it’s better to consult a good dermatologist about potential allergic reactions to Botox treatment.

Read: Best Treatments for Aging Skin

What Is Restylane?

In Restylane, the primary ingredient is hyaluronic acid. This substance is produced in our body naturally and keeps our body hydrated. Typically, most users choose Restylane to get rid of their wrinkles and facial scars.

Hyaluronic acid makes the lips, nasolabial folds, and cheeks look plumper. Although hyaluronic acid(3) can be used as a moisturizer, the substance’s injection form may add volume to the face.

Pros of Restylane

Restylane is an ideal treatment for static wrinkles that appear when we are relaxed, and our face shows no expressions. These static wrinkles look like tiny hollow areas that can be filled using facial fillers. As a result, the face may look fuller and more symmetric. For long-lasting results, Restylane is a good choice. Once the injections have been administered, the patient will experience significant treatment effects for up to 18 months. So, this is one of the primary advantages of Restylane.

Read: Benefits of Lip Fillers

Cons of Restylane

Unlike Botox, a Restylane filler is not dynamic, which means the filler can’t fill in forehead furrows and fine lines efficiently. Usually, Restylane is the best choice for those who want to treat facial scarring and acne. Similarly, it is a good choice for patients who wish to get chubbier cheeks.

In some patients, Restylane may cause an allergic reaction. Patients can minimize the risks by taking proper precautions, such as discussing their health history with dermatologists. Also, the procedure is not recommended for patients who take blood-thinning drugs, such as heart patients.

Read: Restylane vs Juvederm

The takeaway

Based on the pros and cons of Botox and Restylane, we can make an informed choice. It all boils down to what works for a patient as both the treatment options have an equal rate of success. Botox is a better choice to treat areas under the eyes and around the forehead. On the other hand, Restylane is a good choice of filler if a patient wants to fill the spaces around their lips, cheeks, or mouth.

Botox is more dynamic than Restylane, but Restylane offers long-lasting results. So, Restylane may save you some money in the long run. Other than that, both treatments provide excellent results, provided that you only go to leading medical cosmetic clinics with reliable and top-notch services like Waterloo Medical Cosmetics.