Which Neuromodulator is Right for Me?
Are you considering a cosmetic treatment to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and achieve a more youthful look? Neuromodulators are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments that can help you achieve your aesthetic goals. There are five FDA-approved products that offer remarkable results in wrinkle reduction.
So how do you know which neuromodulator is right for you? All five products share the common goal of reducing wrinkles. A treatment session for any of these products is essentially the same, as are the risks and possible side effects. Each product can deliver outstanding results; however, the products do have some unique characteristics.
What are Neuromodulators?
Neuromodulators are injectable treatments used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by temporarily relaxing the muscles that cause these lines. The primary neurotoxins approved by the FDA include:
- Botox® (OnabotulinumtoxinA)
- Dysport® (AbobotulinumtoxinA)
- Xeomin® (IncobotulinumtoxinA)
- Jeuveau® (PrabotulinumtoxinA-xvfs)
- Daxxify® (DaxibotulinumtoxinA-lanm)
Efficacy and Duration
Botox®
- Efficacy: As the first FDA-approved neuromodulator, its is known for its consistent and reliable results in reducing the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines.
- Duration: Results typically last 3 to 4 months.
- Neurotoxin Associated Proteins: Contains accessory proteins that may affect its spread and potency and may contribute to the development of immunogenicity (tolerance) to the product.
- Best known for: Its track record for consistent, reliable results.
Dysport®
- Efficacy: Effective for moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows. It has a slightly quicker onset compared to Botox®.
- Duration: Results can last 3 to 4 months, sometimes up to 5 months for some patients
- Neurotoxin Associated Proteins: Contains smaller accessory proteins, which may contribute to a broader distribution in the treated area. However, like with Botox, accessory proteins may contribute to the development of immunogenicity (tolerance) to the product.
- Best known for: Ease of spread, especially for treatment of larger areas like forehead. Also, known for it’s quicker onset.
Xeomin®
- Efficacy: Comparable to Botox®, used for treating moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows.
- Duration: Results typically last 3 to 4 months.
- Neurotoxin Associated Proteins: Unique for being a “naked” form of botulinum toxin, meaning it does not have accessory proteins, potentially reducing the risk of antibody formation and subsequent resistance.
- Best known for: Being “Pure” without associated proteins.
Jeuveau®
- Efficacy: Primarily used for improving the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows.
- Duration: Results typically last 3 to 4 months.
- Neurotoxin Associated Proteins: Similar to Botox® in formulation, with a proprietary purification process which may reduce resistance, but data is still emerging.
- Best known for: Being similar to Botox.
Daxxify®
- Efficacy: Known for its extended duration of effect in treating moderate to severe glabellar lines (frown lines between the eyebrows).
- Duration: Results can last 6 to 9 months, making it one of the longest-lasting neuromodulators available.
- Neurotoxin Associated Proteins: Contains peptide exchange technology, which may contribute to its longer-lasting effects.
Comparing Key Aspects
Onset of Action
- Botox®: Effects typically begin to appear within 3 to 5 days, with full results in about 1 to 2 weeks.
- Dysport®: Effects can appear as early as 2 to 3 days, with full results within 1 week to 10 days.
- Xeomin®: Effects typically begin within 3 to 4 days, with full results in about 1 to 2 week.
- Jeuveau®: Similar to Botox®, with effects appearing in 3 to 5 days and full results in about 1 to 2 weeks.
- Daxxify®: Effects typically begin within 3 to 5 days, with full results in about 1 to 2 weeks.
Spread and Distribution
- Botox®: Known for its precise placement, ideal for small, targeted areas.
- Dysport®: Tends to spread more, which can be beneficial for treating larger areas but requires skilled administration to avoid unintended muscle relaxation.
- Xeomin®: Has a precise and predictable spread due to the lack of accessory proteins.
- Jeuveau®: Similar to Botox® in its spread and distribution characteristics.
- Daxxify®: Similar to Botox® and Jeuveau® in its spread, with the added benefit of longer-lasting results.
Potential for Immunogenicity
- Botox® and Dysport®: Both contain accessory proteins that could potentially lead to antibody formation and decreased efficacy over time.
- Xeomin®: Lower risk of antibody formation due to the absence of accessory proteins.
- Jeuveau®: While similar to Botox®, it uses a different purification process which might affect immunogenicity, though data is still emerging.
- Daxxify®: Uses peptide exchange technology, which might influence its immunogenicity profile, but more data is needed.
Choosing the Right Neuromodulator
Selecting the right neuromodulator depends on various factors, including your aesthetic goals, the areas to be treated, and your previous experiences with neurotoxin treatments. During your consultation at Biscayne Dermatology, Dr. Shagalov will evaluate your needs and recommend the most suitable option for you.
Book Your Consultation
Ready to take the next step? Schedule your consultation with Dr. Devorah Shagalov, at Biscayne Dermatology to discuss which neuromodulator is right for you. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve a youthful, refreshed appearance with safe and effective treatments.
Experience the best in dermatological care and cosmetic treatments at Biscayne Dermatology. We look forward to helping you look and feel your best!
