Botox® vs. Xeomin®: What’s the Difference?

 In the fight against signs of aging, you have several allies that can help you resist the development or worsening of wrinkles. Botox® and Xeomin® are injectable treatments used to smooth facial wrinkles and prevent the muscle contractions that cause them, letting you look refreshed and energized. While similar, each has different properties that make them unique.

What are Botox® and Xeomin®?

Both of these injectable treatments fall under the category of neurotoxins or neuromodulators. They both work using botulinum toxin, a compound that acts on targeted facial nerves by blocking the signals they send to your muscles. As a result, the muscles and overlying skin become smooth, and your wrinkles disappear. Limiting these facial motions also prevents wrinkles from getting deeper. 

Botox® vs. Xeomin®: What’s the Difference?

Because they both use botulinum toxin to produce the same biological effect, these two treatments share many similarities. However, the differences can matter when it comes to which one is recommended for you. At Krauss Dermatology, injections like Botox® and Xeomin® are performed by board-certified dermatologists. 

What Do They Contain?

Although botulinum toxin is the active ingredient, Botox® also contains an accessory protein used to stabilize it and help it reach the targeted nerves. Xeomin®, sometimes referred to as the “naked” neurotoxin, does not contain these proteins. As a result, people whose nerves have started to lose responsiveness to Botox® may benefit from changing to other neuromodulators, such as Dysport®, Daxxify® and Xeomin®. 

What Do They Treat?

Both treatments have a range of cosmetic and medical uses. However, Xeomin® is approved to treat forehead lines and lines between the brows, while Botox® is FDA-approved for a wider range of uses. However, both are commonly used wherever your dermatologist feels they will work best. Dysport® and Daxxify® are also approved for cosmetic use.

How Long Do They Take To Work?

Results after both treatments may become visible within a few days. However, full Botox® results can take about two weeks to appear, Daxxify® generally has the fastest onset.  Xeomin® and Dysport® results usually take about one to two weeks. These timelines can vary, but almost everyone will enjoy their final results within about two weeks. 

How Long Do They Last?

Most neuromodulator treatments generally last about the same length of time, although one may last longer for you than the other usually last three to four months, although they can last longer if you have been getting treatment for a while. Clinical trials with Daxxify® showed about 50% of patients may have longer duration with this product.  However, we may choose one product over the other depending on the areas being treated and results obtained from previous treatment. Quality skincare products and avoiding sun exposure can help results last longer. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Botox® or Xeomin®?

Both Botox® and Xeomin® are safe and widely used in medicine for individuals of all ages. Candidates for wrinkle treatment should be healthy adults with realistic expectations. People who have had Botox® for a while may see less of a response and benefit from switching to a different neuromodulator. Certain medical conditions may limit whether this treatment is recommended for you. 

Take the Next Step

If you have further questions about Botox® and Xeomin®, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Krauss Dermatology. Call us at (781) 247-5593 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to taking care of you.