Wrinkle Relaxers vs. Dermal Fillers: Which Treatment Is Right for You?

It's no secret that skin texture and volume change with age, but if fine lines and wrinkles are affecting your confidence, you might wonder if there's anything you can do about them. Cosmetic injections, including wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers, treat skin imperfections and create a more youthful appearance. But what's the difference? Being able to distinguish between wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers will guide you to the best possible outcome for your skin.

Here is a breakdown of wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers to guide you to the right treatment for your goals. 

What Are Wrinkle Relaxers?

As skin ages, it becomes more prone to wrinkles due to reduced levels of collagen and skin firmness. Wrinkle relaxers—also known as neuromodulators—are a type of minimally invasive cosmetic injection used to relax facial muscles and soften the appearance of wrinkles. These changes can start to happen as early as your mid-30s, though some people choose to use wrinkle relaxers at a younger age as a preventative measure.

We offer Botox®, Xeomin®, and Daxxify® all of which are forms of the botulinum toxin, for our wrinkle relaxing treatments. They're highly effective at treating a variety of fine lines and wrinkles, from horizontal lines on the forehead to nasolabial lines surrounding the nose and mouth. 

How Do Wrinkle Relaxers Work?

Wrinkle relaxers work by numbing the facial nerves, which prevents muscles from contracting and creating deep lines in the skin. The full results emerge within 5 days, with peak effectiveness in 2 weeks. Typically, the results last for three to four months. Areas with thinner skin and the most movement, such as around the eyes and lips, will wear off faster than others. Injections in the forehead and eyebrow area tend to last longer.

While wrinkle relaxers are safe, there are some potential side effects. Some people experience stinging from the injection, but a numbing agent beforehand or an ice pack after will help. Bruising, swelling, soreness, and redness are also possible side effects.

If you experience more serious side effects, like a headache, flu-like symptoms, or a droopy eyelid or smile, contact your doctor right away. 

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are another popular method for obtaining a more youthful appearance. These hyaluronic acid injections add volume to the skin to fill wrinkles, smooth fine lines, and restore thin or sunken areas. They're often placed around the lips, jawline, and cheeks to address smile and laugh lines and give skin a plump, hydrated look. The injections can also treat fine lines and dark circles around the eyes.

Dermal fillers are faster and easier than more invasive cosmetic treatments and have a short recovery time. The results can usually be seen right away and can last up to 18 months.

How long do the effects of derma fillers last? Much like wrinkle relaxers, the longevity of dermal fillers will depend on the type of product used and where it is injected. 

You don't have to settle for a future filled with fine lines and wrinkles. Instead, you get to decide what it means to age gracefully. Start with a complimentary skin consultation with Modern Age experts and choose your path to a youthful, rejuvenated appearance.