Search Our Site

Botox & Other ‘Tox Brands

Everyone has heard of Botox, but did you know you have other brand options available?

Patients are always asking about the differences between these popular brands of wrinkle relaxer. Dr. Mitchell Chasin talks about when and why he uses each type of neurotoxin, and what differences you need to be aware of.

Botox® is only one brand of 3 FDA-Approved neuromodulators. Dysport® and Xeomin® are two other brands of the same protein that works to slow down overactive muscles that create lines and wrinkles1. Reflections offers all 3 of these brands to our patients, to ensure the best possible results for each individual.

Botox & Other ‘Tox Brands Quick Facts

  • No downtime
  • Results within 1-2 weeks
  • Lasts for 3-6 months

3 Brands of Neuromodulators: Same Protein With Unique Outcomes & Results

All 3 of these neuromodulators are slightly different formulations of the same protein, Botulinum Toxin A, which is injected to relax the overactive muscles that create wrinkles and fine lines in the face and neck.

Botox

The first neuromodulator prescription medicine to be approved by the FDA, Botox has been safely used for over 20 years now and has always enjoyed at least 80 percent of the market worldwide. For a very long time, Botox Cosmetic was the only brand available, and because it has been around for so long, it’s been subjected to many, many clinical trials and is highly effective at treating moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet, forehead lines, and other dynamic wrinkles. It’s been approved for many medical uses beyond wrinkle relaxation, including migraine treatment, sweating reduction for hyperhidrosis patients, and muscle spasms. Botox is manufactured by Allergan, makers of the Juvederm family of products.

The actual formulation of Botox includes several protective proteins, which allows the effects of Botox to last slightly longer than Dysport or Xeomin. This also makes the onset of results a little delayed, usually around 3-7 days, with full results seen at 14 days. Side effects include redness or swelling at the injection site and discomfort, but these effects fade within a day or two.

Learn More

Dysport

Dysport was approved by the FDA in 20095, making it the second neuromodulator available in the US. It’s manufactured by Galderma, makers of the Restylane family of dermal fillers. Dysport has gained a reputation for allowing for more natural movement. However, Dysport is mixed differently per unit than Botox and Xeomin, and this often leads to a more diffuse or thin application of the product. Used properly, Dysport can achieve the same wonderful results we get from Botox for wrinkle relaxation. This is the reason behind more movement – less product is typically used by uneducated injectors, leading to poor results. Since Reflections believes a natural-looking result includes natural movement and because our expert injectors completely understand the ratio and differences between Dysport and Botox, our results tend to be equivalent between these two products. We typically recommend Dysport to patients in cases of known allergic reaction to Botox or loss of Botox reactivity. It’s why it’s so important to tell your doctor about any allergic reactions or past treatment.

Learn More

Xeomin

Xeomin is the newest neuromodulator and botulinum toxin product to come onto the market, receiving FDA approval in 2011. This “naked Botox” doesn’t carry any protective proteins, making it the purest form of neuromodulator. The theory behind this formulation is that there will be fewer reactions and allergies without these carrier proteins. We have, very rarely, seen patients with reactions, or lack thereof, to Botox. Xeomin is manufactured by Merz, which also makes Radiesse. Like Botox, Xeomin can also treat medical conditions like cervical dystonia, upper limb spasticity, and migraines.

In the rare circumstance that someone is allergic to Botox and Dysport, Xeomin is the desired product to use. There may be some bruising, swelling, or injection site pain, but it’s usually minimal and fades in a day or two.

Learn More

Botox & Other ‘Tox Brands Before & After Images

View More Neuromodulator Before & After Results

More Before & Afters

Patient Stories About Botox & Other ‘Tox Brands

View All Patient Stories

“In a small injection, not even ten seconds, my smile has been completely changed. I feel beautiful and I’m so grateful.”

View My Story

“I didn't realize I had botched fillers until I came to Reflections Center.”

View My Story

Why Choose Reflections Center For Botox & Other ‘Tox Brands

At Reflections, we believe it is very important (not only for the safety of our patients but for the quality of their results), that Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin, as well as other injectable procedures, only be performed by highly skilled physicians. This allows us to ensure we’re giving every patient a customized, natural-appearing result based on their anatomy, needs, and wants. The physicians of Reflections are proud to have done hundreds of thousands of Botox and dermal filler treatments over the last two decades and there is nothing more important for great results than experience. You will never find a physician’s assistant, nurse, or dentist injecting Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin (or dermal fillers) at Reflections. Be aware there are laws that regulate who can (and who can not) inject these products, but these laws are often neglected.

With Reflections’ skilled physician injectors, you can expect results that highlight your natural beauty and turn back the clock without looking “frozen” or “done.” We believe when you look good, you feel confident, and that creates positive ripples throughout your entire life. Visit either of our locations in Martinsville (Bridgewater) or Livingston, New Jersey, for a complimentary consultation with one of our skilled physician injectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I go for a walk after Botox?

It is fine to go for a walk after Botox, but youll want to avoid power-walking, running, and any exercise that gets your heart pumping (raises blood pressure) for at least 2 hours (to minimize any risk of bruising).

Can Botox age you?

Botox does not age you, in fact, it makes you look much more youthful when properly injected by a skilled physician.

Can Botox cause weight gain?

No, we dont believe Botox causes weight gain. In medicine, when a prescribed substance is believed to have caused an adverse effect (such as weight gain), its reported - meaning its publicly registered so physicians and scientists can learn about it and be on the lookout for similar problems. When there are enough similar stories, a clinical study is run to determine if there is a true link between the two. There have been no reports of weight gain registered as related to Botox - meaning not even 1 person has had that reported as an adverse effect thus far. Now the reason we say we dont believe Botox causes weight gain is because until there is a study proving it, we cannot be 100% certain - no one can. But there is no reason to believe Botox would or could cause weight gain at this time.

Does Botox affect the brain?

Botox is not associated with any disorders of the brain.

Does Botox make you look older after it wears off?

Botox isnt responsible for an aged appearance when it wears off - its actually the lack of Botox thats responsible for you looking older! However, there is a misconception that youll look older after it wears off, so let us explain what we believe is happening there: say youre 35 when you start Botox, and you get it regularly until your 50th birthday, when you decide you want to all natural. Well, the Botox has been keeping your skin wrinkle-free and your brows nicely arched and lifted for 15 years. Suddenly, after it wear off, your brows are sagging and youre covered in wrinkles - it must be proof Botox ages us, right?! No, youve just stopped working against aging and its caught it up with you, as it naturally will. Those who keep regular with their Botox can expect to look great for their age, but nothing can suspend time. We recommend regular Botox, skin resurfacing, and a great skincare routine to keep you looking your absolute best!

Is Botox a poison?

Botox is a highly purified biochemical agent produced by a specific type of bacteria & has been used in medicine for decades with an unsurpassed safety record.

Is Botox a steroid?

Botox is not a steroid, nor is it related to the steroid family of medications.

Is Botox good for under eye wrinkles?

In the hands of a skilled provider administering Botox to the right candidate can soften under eye wrinkles. It’s important to choose a provider who knows when to say no to prevent aggravating puffiness or sagging of this delicate area.

What are the risks of botox?

Side effects and complications are very uncommon at our practice, due to our highly skilled and experienced physician injectors. The most commonly reported are a temporary decrease in brow height or an asymmetry in the brow. Localized pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, and bleeding/bruising have been reported nationally, but these effects extremely rare among our patients. When your question has been answered, please flair your post.

How many units of Botox are needed for the forehead?

Botox is a neuromodulator that is used for facial rejuvenation, among several other uses. It temporarily blocks the nerve signals to your facial muscles, smoothing out fine lines, creases, wrinkles, and crow’s feet. In order to get optimal results, it is imperative that you consult an experienced cosmetic physician or injector who is aware of the right dosage of Botox to be used. One of the most common areas for rejuvenation using Botox is the forehead. Over years, constant frowning or squinting leaves deep creases in the forehead and, unfortunately, it can cause you to look constantly angry or tired. Patients wanting to correct this are usually concerned with how many units of Botox are required for forehead rejuvenation, and this is because Botox is priced per unit and, on average, it costs between $15 to 20. There are two kinds of forehead lines you might be experiencing. The glabellar region, or vertical lines commonly called ‘11s’, on your forehead may need about 20 to 35 units, depending on their severity. You could be looking for correction of the frontalis muscle, which leads to horizontal lines on your forehead, which requires about 6 to 20 units. This means if you get about 20 units in your forehead, it will cost you between $200 to $300. Your effects from Botox treatment will last for about 3 to 6 months and, as the muscle movement returns gradually, the wrinkles and lines will begin to return as well. You will require additional treatment for retaining your results. With time and repeated treatments, you will find that the severity of the lines on your forehead begins to decrease. This allows you to enjoy your facial rejuvenation for a longer period.

How long after Botox can I work out?

There is not a very long recovery period for Botox. The first day is the most important as the Botox starts to take effect. After Botox is injected, the proteins start to diffuse in the treated area. Strenuous activity increases blood pressure and may make bruising more pronounced, so if you notice a bruise forming, we recommend skipping working out for that day. The only restriction you need to worry about after Botox injections is not to rub the treated areas for at least 90 minutes. We also recommend you don’t apply makeup over the injection sites, or really touch them, for at least a few minutes (while the wound is still open).

Can I have wine after Botox?

There are no restrictions for food or alcohol after Botox.

What is Botox used for?

Because Botox works by blocking chemical signals to muscles and glands, it can also be useful in treating conditions like migraines or hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). In cosmetic uses, Botox can effectively relax wrinkles, folds, and neck bands.

How much is Botox?

Botox has several uses but is most commonly used for cosmetic purposes. Since it is a neuromodulator, it blocks the nerve signals to your muscles temporarily. This is used effectively in the cosmetic industry to give you a wrinkle-free facial appearance. A lifetime of muscle movement gives you a tired or angry look when the furrows on your brow or the laugh lines around your lips deepen. Botox reduces these lines, taking years off your appearance. You can get help with excessive sweating and migraines as well at a Botox center. If you are wondering how much Botox near me costs, you must understand that it depends on your individual treatment requirement. Botox usually costs $16 per unit and when used for your facial wrinkles and lines, the treatment will typically be about $250 to $600. An experienced cosmetic physician will give you the best results since they know how much and where to administer it. Physicians with good knowledge of the neuromodulator use small amounts in different muscles that are overactive to ensure a harmony is created in your face. This is what differs the natural results from that ‘pulled’ appearance some people end up with after their Botox treatment. This is why you must ensure that your focus remains on seeing a good injector rather than the cost at the Botox center you visit.

How long does Botox take to work?

Botox is a minimally-invasive rejuvenation procedure that aims to reduce the dynamic lines and wrinkles in the upper face. However, it’s important to choose a trained cosmetic physician to administer Botox to ensure you get your desired results. With age, repetitive facial movements like squinting and frowning can cause creases and lines on your face that can make you look angrier or more tired than you feel. Botox treatment helps relax your active facial muscles, allowing the wrinkled skin to repair itself and smooth out lines. It’s an effective treatment for moderate to severe frown lines, as well as crow’s feet near the eyes. In comparison to other invasive methods for facial rejuvenation, your Botox treatment will only take a few minutes. Fine needles are used to inject Botox into your facial muscles and, contrary to popular belief, every wrinkle does not have to be separately treated. Botox is primarily a neuromodulator that temporarily blocks the signals from the nerves to the muscles, allowing them to relax. This is what smooths out lines and creases formed by muscular movement over time. Botox is a safe treatment approved by the FDA, as long as it is administered by an injector who has sufficient experience and the expertise to achieve good results by customizing the amount and area of treatment for specific patients. Your success with Botox depends on the clinical condition, dosage of Botox, and the frequency of treatment. Your Botox treatment will usually show results within 24 hours and you will see its maximum effects within 30 days after your procedure. With repeated treatment sessions, your response to Botox also improves. Mostly, the results achieved from Botox last for around 3 to 6 months, after which you can opt for additional treatments to maintain your results.

What are the uses of Botox?

Because Botox works by blocking chemical signals to muscles and glands, it can also be useful in treating conditions like migraines or hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). In cosmetic uses, Botox can effectively relax wrinkles, folds, and neck bands.

Can Botox help sinuses?

There are a few studies that indicate Botox may be helpful for relieving allergy symptoms for those with treatment-resistant allergies, in particular for those with sinus-related symptoms. However, this is a newer treatment, with a very different injection technique than cosmetic Botox injections, and one best left to an ENT or Allergist with the proper training. Cosmetic injections for wrinkles do not have the same effect.

Can you drink coffee after Botox?

There are no restrictions for food or alcohol after Botox.

Can Botox lift eyebrows?

Yes, Botox can be used to lift your eyebrows, but it doesnt have to be. Speak to your injector about your ideal results in detail, so that they can help you achieve a natural and youthful look.

Is 50 too old for Botox?

Botox may be used for cosmetic purposes in an adult patient of any age. It’s not uncommon to begin treatment at age 50. The results are dependent on many factors and vary from person to person.

Should I move my face after Botox?

The manufacturers of Botox do not recommend any special face exercises after Botox.

What age should I start Botox?

Botox can be started as early as age 18. The advantage to starting earlier is that it’s easier to prevent the signs of aging, then it is to reverse them.

What do I need to know before getting botox?

Side effects and complications are very uncommon at our practice, due to our highly skilled and experienced physician injectors. The most commonly reported are a temporary decrease in brow height or an asymmetry in the brow. Localized pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, and bleeding/bruising have been reported nationally, but these effects extremely rare among our patients.

Why cant you lay down after Botox?

20. You may lay down after Botox, but for 2 hours refrain from lying on your face. Putting pressure on your face can cause the Botox to move around under the skin, causing it to spread and take affect differently than intended.

Does Botox make you shiny?

When Botox is overdone & the skin looks stretched/frozen it can give a shine. Choosing the right provider is key in creating a natural, more youthful appearance & improving skin quality to give a healthy glow.

How long does Botox last?

Botox is one of the common injectables that is used in a wide range of medical and cosmetic applications. It is a safe, flexible and non invasive procedure that is becoming increasingly popular. The treatment can take effect as soon as 3 to 5 days after the treatment, with the final results becoming visible after about 2 weeks. For first time users of Botox injections, it is important to understand that the first treatment may not lead to optimal and long lasting results. After multiple treatment sessions, your muscles get conditioned and respond well to Botox injections. With each session, the results will begin to last longer since your muscles can be trained to make less or smaller movements when emoting. When used for cosmetic purposes, results from Botox injections may last from 4 to 6 months. However, after your first treatment, you may need a touch up session within 3 months itself. Some of the factors that contribute to how long your Botox injections last include: · How much the product is diluted · The targeted area · The dosage of Botox units used · Your age When the wrinkles on your skin are etched too deeply or when Botox injections are used on aged patients, Botox may not smoothe wrinkles as expected. You must always consult a trained cosmetic physician before choosing a treatment to receive optimal results.

What are the bad side effects of Botox?

9. True Botox complications are very rare. Side effects like forehead heaviness, droopy eyelids, or imbalanced smile are greatly decreased when using a skilled provider. These potential side effects may be corrected or resolve on their own.

What should you not do after Botox?

For 2 hours immediately following your Botox injections, do not run, work-out, do Yoga or rub your face.

Who should not get Botox?

People who have a history of these 3 cited medical conditions must have a discussion with their Primary Care Physician prior to a Botox consultation/treatment: 1. A.L.S., 2. Myastenia Gravis, 3. Lambert-Eaton Syndrome.

Are Dysport or Xeomin cheaper than Botox?

The majority of your results, and cost for treatment comes from who injects you, not which of these products is utilized. The costs of all three agents are similar if an injector uses the products properly. 2.5 units of Dysport is roughly equivalent to 1 unit each of Xeomin and Botox, so the price-per-unit is less expensive for Dysport, but you need 2.5 times more Dysport to achieve the same results of Botox. You can enroll in additional savings programs for both Dysport and Botox at our practice.

Does Dysport last longer than Botox?

There have been several studies into which of these 3 products lasts longer, kicks in sooner, etc. Of course, each company wants to claim their product is in some way superior to the others. There may be a minor advantage for Dysport kicking in quicker, but Botox probably lasts a little longer. A skilled injector should be comfortable using each of these products.

How do I maximize the duration of Botox or Dysport injections?

Longevity of results is determined by the amount of product used, but at a certain point, additional Botox doesn’t yield an advantage. Only experienced providers understand this number, and it varies quite a bit from patient to patient. Building longevity is achieved through routine injections, returning for next treatment before the effects fully dissipate. In other words, if you come back for treatment before the benefits have gone away, you will notice the effects to last longer and longer over time.

What are the most common side effects of these injections with Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin?

Unfortunately, there are a lot of inexperienced injectors out there causing many completely avoidable complications. These include frozen faces, odd-looking brows, startled appearance and more. Unfortunately, we spend much time fixing other’s poor outcomes. A desirable provider will discuss not only what types of results you can achieve but what is being done to avoid any issues. The process of having Botox should include discussion of goals and a well thought out plan. There is an art to this process and experience is necessary to create a masterpiece.

Will there be downtime?

NO. Botox and Dysport injections should be very comfortable and not require downtime. We ask our patients to refrain from rubbing the area or exercising for 90 minutes after, and the use of ice on the area should be avoided. Patients immediately sense the experience of our physicians the first time they are injected here. The way a patient is positioned, using the tiniest of available needles, proper technique, and a gentle touch is a big part of a great experience.

What are some important things to know about Botox, Dysport, & Xeomin?

These are our recommendations for being a savvy consumer during your treatments: Look for an experienced physician who spends a large portion of their work time providing these types of injections. You can confirm this by asking about awards from Allergan and Merz. The top injectors receive yearly awards from each of these companies based on the volume of product used. There is a very clear correlation between high quantity purchased and high level of experience, and since experience is the best indicator of expected result, this is the key to finding a good provider and getting a good result. Our practice currently ranks in the top 250 in the country for Allergan, makers of Botox. This was previously named Diamond level. This is a position we’ve maintained over the last 6 years. With Merz, makers of Dysport, we are at the Presidential Champion level. Know how many units are being used and what “areas” are being treated, not just the dollar figure. Practices charge differently for these injections – some by the “area” treated and some by the number of units used, with price by unit varying quite a bit between practices. Knowing what you’re paying for is important, so you can understand the value and the expected results. Come for next treatment before results have fully dissipated to boost longevity. A 3 month routine will boost the effects of these injections and allow you to use less product over time, which not only saves you money but keeps you looking wonderful year-round. Avoid treatment provided by non-physicians who may very well not be licensed to do these injections in the state you are in. In NJ, one needs to be a physician to legally provide these injections.

Read Our Blogs About Botox & Other ‘Tox Brands

Botox
Xeomin

Botox vs Xeomin

Botox® or Xeomin®: Which is Right for Me? There are few other products that...

Read More
Blog

Botox vs. Filler for Wrinkles: Which is Best?

Botox vs. Filler for Wrinkles If you’re interested in treating wrinkles with...

Read More
Blog

Dysport Vs. Botox

Both Dysport and Botox are brands of cosmetic wrinkle reducers that block...

Read More

Sources:

  1. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (October 27, 2011). “Botulinum Toxin Type A”drugs.com.
  2. Felber ES (October 2006). “Botulinum toxin in primary care medicine”The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association106 (10): 609–14. PMID 17122031.
  3.  Carruthers JD, Carruthers JA (January 1992). “Treatment of glabellar frown lines with C. botulinum-A exotoxin”. The Journal of Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology18 (1): 17–21. 
  4.  “BOTOX Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) Product Information”Allergan. January 22, 2014.
  5. FDA Approved Drug Products – Dysport”www.accessdata.fda.gov. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved 2016-11-07.
Dr. Mitchell Chasin

Dr. Mitchell Chasin is a Cosmetic & Laser Physician at Reflections Center. Dr. Chasin believes strongly that the best cosmetic physicians are those who are dedicated to mastering their craft through continuing education and collaboration with the industry’s top doctors.