While Botox and Restylane are both used to revitalize the face, there is a marked difference between the two, particularly when it comes to their effect. In individual cases, both products can be used in conjunction with one another.
Botox 101
Botox has been manufactured in the U.S. and approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration since 2002. It is a neuromodulator composed of purified botulinium toxin type A. This popular cosmetic injection has more than 1,000,000 first-time users and over 2,600,000 total procedures per year.
The injections work by relaxing or paralyzing the facial muscles that cause wrinkles. Botox is used for dynamic facial lines or those that move when the facial expression changes, like smiling or frowning. It is effective in treating frown lines at the top of the bridge of the nose, fine lines around the eyes, or crow’s feet and laugh lines.
Botox should never be used during pregnancy, breastfeeding or on patients with a neurologic diagnosis. The risks of Botox include pain at the site, bruising and headache to more serious flu-like symptoms, respiratory infection and temporary muscle drooping at the injection site.
Restylane Basics
Restylane is a hyaluronic acid filler. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in human skin, which enhances skin fullness and elasticity. Restylane originated in Sweden in 1996 and has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration since 2003. Restylane is approved for use in over sixty countries worldwide with more than ten million treatments administered in its history.
This treatment choice is effective in elevating facial depressions and deep wrinkles. Restylane is used to treat moderate to severe wrinkles at rest, or those that do not resolve when the facial muscles are not moved. It is an appropriate choice to fill shadow-causing depressions under the eye area that create tired looking eyes. Restylane is also used to enhance facial contours and shape lips.
The risks of Restylane include swelling and pain at the injection site to headache, muscle weakness, nausea and flu-like symptoms.
The Parallels
Both treatments are done via injections into the area of concern. A micro cannula is used to limit bleeding and the ensuing potential for black eyes. There are reports of slight bruising at the injection sites for both products.
