Just as Kleenex is synonymous with tissues, BOTOX® has long been used as a catch-all term for injectable neuromodulators. But while BOTOX is by far the most common non-invasive aesthetic procedure performed in the U.S., a few other neurotoxins have emerged since its creation. In this post, we explain everything you need to know about the 4 injectable neuromodulators currently available: BOTOX®, Dysport®, Jeuveau®, and Xeomin®.
- How do neurotoxins work?
- How are neurotoxins measured?
- What is the difference between injectable neurotoxins?
- Are all neurotoxins injected similarly?
- How long do neuromodulators last?
- How much do neurotoxins in Joplin cost?
- How can I make sure I get beautiful neuromodulator results?
How do neurotoxins work?
Neuromodulators (used interchangeably with “neurotoxins”) work by temporarily paralyzing the facial muscles responsible for causing the lines and wrinkles visible when your face is at rest. As a result, their appearance is greatly reduced, providing a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
How are neurotoxins measured?
Although BOTOX, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin are all measured in units, not all of these units are equal. For example, Dysport is slightly less potent than the other 3 neurotoxins, therefore it may take more units of Dysport to achieve one’s desired results. Aside from Dysport, BOTOX, Jeuveau, and Xeomin all have roughly the same potency.
What is the difference between injectable neurotoxins?
BOTOX, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin all contain botulinum toxin type A as their active compound, and are all FDA approved to treat the same aesthetic concerns. However, because they are formulated differently, they vary slightly in:
- Dosage
- How much they spread once injected
- How quickly they provide results
Though these differences won’t matter to the average person, those who receive neuromodulator injections often (and those who love research!) will want to understand these differences.
How each neurotoxin is formulated influences its dosage, how much it spreads once injected, and how quickly it provides results.
Are all neurotoxins injected similarly?
Depending on each patient’s anatomy and goals, different botulinum toxin injectables can be used to enhance different parts of the face. Don’t get overwhelmed: a skilled injector will understand the many intricacies associated with these various neuromodulators, and he or she will know which neuromodulators are best for your skin, how much is needed, and which areas of your face to treat to get you the look you seek.
At Maningas Cosmetic Surgery, our Aesthetic Nurse Injector, Beth Henderson RN, BSN, likes to use:
- BOTOX for treating small areas, like crow’s feet and glabellar lines, and to create a subtle eyebrow arch
- Dysport for treating larger areas, like horizontal forehead lines
How long do neuromodulators last?
In general, botulinum toxin results last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. Their longevity depends on a variety of factors, from the way your body metabolizes the product to your area(s) being treated. It also may take a few touch-ups to get your results just right.
Here is a typical timeline of the onset and duration of the various neuromodulators:
- BOTOX takes about 5 to 7 days for results to appear, and lasts about 3 to 4 months
- Dysport takes about 2 to 4 days for results to appear, and lasts about 4 months
- Jeuveau takes about 3 to 5 days for results to appear, and lasts about 3 to 4 months
- Xeomin takes about 5 to 7 days for results to appear, and lasts about 3 to 4 months
As you can see, these products all last for roughly the same amount of time, with Dysport’s onset usually beginning just a few days sooner than the others.
Is BOTOX resistance real?
If you’re researching the differences between botulinum toxin brands, you may be curious if BOTOX resistance is a real thing. The short answer is, yes: a small percentage of patients may develop an antibody resistance against the complexing proteins that BOTOX is formulated with over time, which may reduce its effectiveness. However, this resistance is typically only problematic for patients who have received regular BOTOX treatments (every 3 to 4 months) for a decade or longer.
If you think you’ve developed a resistance to BOTOX, you may want to try Xeomin. Since Xeomin isn’t formulated with any complexing proteins, patients who show signs of resistance to BOTOX and Dysport may experience better results.
Since Xeomin isn’t formulated with any complexing proteins, patients who show signs of BOTOX resistance may experience better results.
How much do neurotoxins in Joplin cost?
At Maningas Cosmetic Surgery in Joplin, MO, you can expect to pay $12 per unit for both BOTOX and Dysport injections. Be sure to check our Promotions page for discounts and specials on all your favorite injectables.
How can I make sure I get beautiful neuromodulator results?
There are a few ways to help ensure you receive beautiful results from your neuromodulator injections:
- Work with a qualified cosmetic injector. He or she will evaluate your unique facial anatomy to create a plan that meets your needs and goals. Remember, even though neurotoxin injections are non-surgical, they are still a medical procedure that requires specific training, knowledge, and skill to administer safely and effectively.
- Follow your injector’s recommendations. If you are working with a qualified cosmetic injector, he or she will provide recommendations you can trust. Don’t try to save money by getting less product than you actually need; you likely won’t notice much of a difference in your appearance, leading you to spend more time and money trying to achieve your desired results.
Customize your BOTOX injections in Joplin, MO and the four-state area
At Maningas Cosmetic Surgery, our Aesthetic Nurse Injector, Beth Henderson RN, BSN, performs BOTOX and Dysport injections for our Joplin-area patients. She will listen to your concerns, evaluate your aesthetic needs, and recommend a custom treatment plan just for you. Schedule your consultation online or call (417) 437-0303 today!