Xeomin Vs. Botox: Is There A Significant Difference?

For those looking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, injectables have become a reliable constant in their lives. Two that have found particular success and popularity are Botox and Xeomin. Both substances contain a neurotoxin known as botulinum Type A, which relaxes facial muscles when injected. Other similarities between the treatments include the fact that they’re non-invasive, over in a few minutes, and require very little recovery time.

Both result in a more youthful appearance, carry long-lasting results and can help prevent wrinkles in the long run, as continuous use will weaken the muscles that cause them.

What are the differences between Botox and Xeomin? In this article, we’ll walk you through the most important ones, both in terms of each drug’s structure and in terms of their effects. Whether you decide they’re different enough to choose one versus the other is up to you.

Xeomin vs. Botox – The Structures

As similar as Xeomin and Botox are, there are fundamental differences between each drug’s actual structure. While they may make little to no difference for many who are undergoing treatment, those differences can be major to a small percentage of users, and are important to know before investigating your options any further.

Xeomin

Xeomin, manufactured by Merz Pharma, is considered a “naked” injectable. This means that it contains only botulinum Type A. What does that mean for those getting it injected? Primarily, it reduces the chances of an allergic reaction. When only one pure substance is being injected, it’s easier to know how the body will react. It also greatly reduces the chances of antibody resistance.

When it comes to storage, Xeomin is versatile. It can be stored at room temperature, refrigerated, or frozen. In all cases, the drug retains its potency and delivers the same results to the patient.

Botox

Meanwhile – Botox, which is manufactured by Allergan, is not “naked”, but contains several neurotoxin-associated accessory proteins. Allergic reactions are rare, but have been known to occur with these proteins. These can include itching and swelling along the face, throat and tongue, along with rash, lack of balance and difficulty breathing.

Needless to say, while most won’t experience anything close to this reaction, if you’ve had sensitivity to Botox injections in the past, Xeomin might be the safer choice. Regarding storage, Botox needs to be refrigerated before use – no freezing and no sitting at room temperature. This is due to the accessory proteins.

Those proteins can also be responsible for another uncommon, undesirable result – namely, antibody resistance. In some instances of repeated use, Botox proteins can trigger antibodies to bind to them, making the entire compound ineffective. This immune reaction renders the drug useless. Again, only a small percentage of users are affected, but it’s still a fact worth knowing.

Xeomin Vs. Botox – The Effects

Xeomin and Botox share very similar clinical effects when injected, but each has different special uses. If you study them closely, there are still valid, unique reasons for choosing one versus the other.

Xeomin

Other than reducing wrinkles and forehead lines, Xeomin is especially effective at:

• Targeting frown lines and crow’s feet
• Controlling excessive saliva
• Treating abnormal muscle contractions

Botox

Botox is also effective at reducing wrinkles and fine lines, as well as controlling muscle spasms – particularly those of the neck, limbs and eyelids. It’s useful as well for:

• Treating headaches – especially migraines
• Calming an overactive bladder
• Controlling excessive sweating

One recent study worth sharing — which compared the two found that while effects remained the same after four months, Xeomin often worked faster and ultimately lasted longer. In many cases, it even remained effective at six months, which is when the study concluded. Having said that, most patients will re-treat every 3-4 months to maintain maximum benefit.

Xeomin Vs. Botox: The Takeaway

Both Xeomin and Botox are convenient treatments that cost around the same, and achieve many of the same results. The choice of which to go with depends on what you really need, and how sensitive you may be to the presence of accessory proteins. If you’d like to know more or schedule a treatment, contact BLUSH Beverly Hills right here, and a member of our staff will be happy to help you choose the right treatment for you.