Botox may be the name everyone knows, but it is far from the only option on the market. In this blog, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lisa Ishii reviews several alternatives to Botox, along with the treatment approach our team finds delivers the most natural and effective results.
Why is Botox so Popular?
Botox is one of many neuromodulators that help relax lines and wrinkles. It is the brand name that most know best partially because it was the first of its kind to be FDA-approved. Believe it or not, it was FDA-approved over 20 years ago for aesthetic use! Over the past few years, minimally invasive treatments have increased in popularity, with neuromodulators increasing by 6% between 2022 and 2023. Neuromodulator popularity stems from its ease of administration, minimal to zero downtime, and the fact that full results are appreciable in two weeks.
Botox is one of many minimally invasive aesthetic options to help you age gracefully. There are many other neuromodulators that are currently FDA-approved for use. Aesthetic Solutions is lucky enough to carry five of them, and I often mix and match these over different areas on the face depending on your muscle movement and anatomy.
Popular Botox Alternatives Reviewed:
Dysport
Dysport was the second neuromodulator to be FDA-approved for aesthetic use. In my hands, I find that it can clinically give me a bit more spread than other neuromodulators, so I use this product for broader or larger muscles. It is dosed differently than Botox, so keep this in mind when comparing the two! Of note, Dysport is the only neuromodulator containing lactose and therefore needs to be used with caution in those with a life-threatening allergy to lactose or dairy products.
Daxxify
Daxxify is unique in that it is formulated to last 1.5-2 times longer than the other neuromodulators. This is a great option for patients who find that their neuromodulators do not last as long. I also am able to mix and match Daxxify with the other neuromodulators, so many of my patients prefer Daxxify in certain treatment areas where the neuromodulator tends to metabolize a bit quicker, such as the “lip flip” area. It is also the only neuromodulator that is technically “vegan,” due to the lack of human serum albumin, which serves as the excipient in other formulations.
Jeuveau
Jeuveau is very similar to Botox in terms of dosing and spread, but patients find that it may have a faster onset of action than Botox. I typically use this interchangeably with Botox.
Do All Wrinkle Relaxers Work the Same Way?
Yes! All of the above neuromodulators use the same active ingredient, which is botulinum toxin type A. All of these formulations act on the same protein (SNAP-25 protein) within the neuromuscular junction to prevent muscle contraction and cause wrinkle relaxation (or in certain cases, sweat reduction). The slightly varying properties of these neuromodulators are thought to be due to the accessory protein, which makes each formulation unique.
How to Choose the Right Wrinkle Relaxer
A thorough consultation and examination by your injector are key in determining the correct dose and correct product for each treatment area. An open and honest conversation is also important to discuss which formulations have been used before and your satisfaction with those results.
There is no single wrinkle relaxer that is right for everyone. In many cases, the best results come from a thoughtful combination of products chosen for your unique anatomy and goals. If you are curious about Botox alternatives or want a personalized plan crafted for your features, our team is here to guide you through the options. Contact us for more information.
