The Main Differences Between Xeomin and Botox to Consider in 2024
Botox and alternatives, such as Xeomin, remain one of the most popular non-invasive aesthetic treatments in 2024. Both are neuromodulators that relax the facial muscles to reduce wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions, but they have slightly different formulations.
The main difference between Botox and Xeomin is that Botox contains accessory proteins, while Xeomin is a “naked" form of botulinum toxin that doesn't have any proteins, meaning your body is less likely to develop resistance to it over time. However, Botox has been around for much longer and has more established uses for various cosmetic and medical concerns.
Let's take a closer look at these two injectables to help you make the right decision.
Common Use Cases for Xeomin & Botox
Xeomin doesn't have any applications that Botox can't address, but Botox is approved for more use cases, like treating excessive sweating.
Here are the most common uses of Botox and Xeomin:
Forehead
Both Botox and Xeomin effectively smooth out wrinkles in the forehead. These injectables relax the muscles responsible for frowning or raising the eyebrows, effectively smoothing the skin for a refreshed look.
Brow Lift
For a subtle brow lift, both Xeomin and Botox target the muscles around the eyebrows to elevate the brow line. This helps to counteract sagging brows or a tired expression, opening up the eyes and achieving a more youthful, vibrant appearance.
Crow's Feet
By relaxing the surrounding muscles, Xeomin and Botox can help reduce the depth of the lines that form around the eyes, which are often a result of smiling, laughing, or squinting.
TMJ
Beyond cosmetic use, both can help alleviate pain associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Injections relax the jaw, relieving pain or tension in the jaw and surrounding areas.
Glabellar Lines
Both target glabellar lines, also known as frown lines or "11s" between the eyebrows, which can contribute to a harsh appearance. By relaxing the muscles in this area, we can achieve a smoother, softer look.
Migraines
Both Botox and Xeomin have been approved for treating chronic migraines. By targeting specific muscle groups in the forehead and temples, these injectables can reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
Jawline
Botox and Xeomin treatments can also redefine the jawline by targeting the masseter muscles. This is often done to address a wide or square jawline, helping to slim the jawline and achieve a more balanced facial profile.
What is Xeomin?
Xeomin is an injectable neuromodulator that temporarily blocks nerve signals to muscles, reducing their activity, which smoothes fine lines and wrinkles.
Unlike Botox and Dysport, Xeomin contains only botulinum toxin type A with no additives or extra proteins. This purified formula means it’s less likely to cause resistance or allergic reactions in some patients.
Pros and Cons of Xeomin
Patients often see faster results with Xeomin, typically within a few days after treatment, while Botox results usually take around two weeks to show up. Xeomin is also long-lasting with minimal upkeep, as results may last up to six months.
Like Botox, Xeomin has been approved for various cosmetic and medical conditions like cervical dystonia and blepharospasm, although it has fewer FDA-approved medical uses than Botox.
Units for Xeomin Treatments
Xeomin typically uses the same amount of units as Botox for similar results:
Forehead Lines: ~25 units
Crow’s Feet: 24 units (6 to 12 units per side)
Frown Lines (Glabellar Lines): 20 units
Average Cost for Xeomin
Xeomin is often slightly cheaper than Botox injections, but not always. In the United States, the cost of Xeomin is generally between $8 and $18 per unit, or $375 on average, depending on how many units are used. Prices vary based on the location of the med spa or clinic you visit as well as the expertise of the provider.
Number of Treatments Needed
In general, patients receive follow-up treatments every three to four months to maintain results, which is comparable to Botox. This varies based on individual skin type, the dose, and the area treated. Follow your provider's recommended treatment schedule to maintain your results.
Recovery Time
There is virtually no downtime after Xeomin injections. Most patients can return to their regular activities immediately after their appointment. You may have some mild redness, swelling, or bruising around the injected area. This usually goes away in a few hours. You should avoid exercising and touching/rubbing the area for the rest of the day.
Lasting Effects - How Long Does Xeomin Last?
Xeomin typically lasts three months, whereas Botox lasts three to four months on average. However, the duration of effects can vary from patient to patient. Some patients may find that with regular use, they can extend the time in between sessions while achieving the same results.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Xeomin include:
Mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness at the injection site
Headaches
Muscle weakness
Blurred vision
Drooping eyelids
In most cases, side effects are mild and temporary. More serious side effects are very rare if you go to an experienced provider.
Is Xeomin Safe?
Yes, Xeomin is FDA-approved for improving glabellar lines and is safe when administered by a qualified professional. Those with certain nerve or muscle disorders are at increased risk of serious side effects. Those with sensitivities or allergies to the ingredients should not use Xeomin.
What is Botox?
Originally developed for medical purposes in the 1980s, BOTOX Cosmetic gained FDA approval for cosmetic use in 2002. It is now one of the most widely used wrinkle relaxer treatments in the industry.
Injections work by temporarily preventing the underlying muscles from moving to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and smooth out the skin.
Pros and Cons of Botox
Botox has a long track record of safety and efficacy, having been on the market for 20 years. It can be used to treat various cosmetic and medical conditions, with long-lasting results, typically three to four months.
However, it may take up to one to two weeks for effects to appear. The other rare drawback is that the additional proteins found in Botox may increase the risk of some people building up resistance to it with long-term use.
Units for Botox Treatments
Here are the number of units of Botox typically used for common areas:
Forehead Lines: 40 units
Crow’s Feet: 24 units (6 to 12 units per side)
Frown Lines (Glabellar Lines): 20 units
Average Cost of Botox
The cost of Botox is typically around the same or slightly more than Xeomin, at $10-20 per unit or approximately $408 per treatment. The price may be higher or lower depending on the location, provider expertise, treatment areas, and the number of units used.
There is no major difference between the dose equivalence of Xeomin and Botox. For example, 20 units of Botox is generally equal to 20 units of Xeomin.
Number of Treatments Needed
Each treatment lasts approximately three to four months, but this can vary based on factors such as how your body processes the neurotoxin, the treatment area, and the severity of the wrinkles. Deeper or more severe wrinkles may require more frequent touch-ups, especially in the initial stages, to achieve and maintain smooth skin. If you regularly keep up your treatments, you may find you need injections less often.
Botox Before & After Results
You may notice results within a few days, but full results may take one to two weeks to be visible. Before Botox, lines and wrinkles are prominent during certain facial expressions. After treatment, forehead lines and crow's feet are significantly reduced, resulting in a smoother, more youthful appearance overall.
Recovery Time
Recovery is quick and mild. Most patients go back to their normal routines immediately after their appointment. You may experience slight redness, bruising, or swelling at injection sites, but these usually subside within a few hours to a day.
After getting Botox, you should stay upright and avoid rubbing the treated area for at least four hours and avoid exercise, excessive heat, alcohol, and blood thinners for 24 hours after treatment.
Lasting Effects - How Long Does Botox Last?
Botox typically lasts about three to four months. The duration of the effect is slightly longer than Xeomin. Individual results may vary based on metabolism, the specific muscles treated, dosage, and the frequency of treatments.
Side Effects
The possible side effects of Botox include:
Mild bruising, swelling, or pain at the injection site
Headaches
Drooping eyebrows or eyelids
Flu-like symptoms
Most side effects are mild and improve within a day. Serious complications are rare, but they can occur if the toxin moves outside the treated area. Choosing an experienced Botox injector will help minimize the risk of serious side effects.
Is Botox Safe?
Yes, Botox is FDA-approved for treating wrinkles and facial lines and is considered safe with minimal risks when performed properly by a qualified professional, such as a medical doctor (MD) or plastic surgeon.
Extensive research, with clinical studies over 16 years supports its safety and efficacy. That said, Botox isn't for everyone; individuals with certain neurological disorders or allergies to botulinum toxin should avoid its use.
The Right Candidate for Botox and Xeomin
Good candidates for both treatments are:
At least 18 years old
In good overall health
No history of neuromuscular disorders
No allergies to ingredients
No current infections or skin issues in the treatment area
Not pregnant or breastfeeding
Have realistic expectations
Looking to treat dynamic wrinkles
For patients looking for a Botox alternative with a faster onset that may last longer, or who have built up resistance to Botox, Xeomin might be a good option. Others who prefer a well-established treatment to achieve results more gradually may be better candidates for Botox.
Botox vs Xeomin: Which is More Natural?
There are currently no studies comparing which option provides more natural results. However, natural results can be achieved with both. A skilled provider will know how to achieve the most natural-looking results.
Can You Switch Between Xeomin and Botox?
Xeomin and Botox should not be used interchangeably and you should stick to one or the other. However, since both neuromodulators share the same mechanism, you can switch between the two if you find one is not working for you. Xeomin is a good alternative in cases where patients have developed antibodies to the proteins found in Botox.
Questions to Ask a Medical Professional
Here’s a list of questions you should consider asking your medical professional about botulinum toxin injections during your consultation:
Am I a good candidate for Botox or Xeomin?
Who will perform the injections?
Have they been specifically trained in this procedure?
What should I do/not do to get the best results?
What are the potential risks or complications?
How can I expect to look over time?
Do you have before-and-after photos I can look at?
What results are reasonable for me?
Overall, Which is Better and More Effective?
Both can provide similar results in treating dynamic wrinkles. The choice between Botox and Xeomin comes down to your personal preference and how your body responds. Since Xeomin lacks accessory proteins, there's a lower risk of patients developing resistance to it over long-term use. Some patients may find that Xeomin takes effect slightly faster, but does not last as long as Botox, though results vary.
Botox has been around longer, and many providers may have more experience with it. If you’ve had good experiences with Botox, it may be worth sticking with it.
Consulting with a licensed practitioner is crucial for helping you decide which is better for your specific needs.
Other Alternatives to Xeomin & Botox to Consider
Other alternatives include Dysport, Jeuveau, and Daxxify. Like Xeomin and Botox, these are wrinkle relaxers that contain the same active ingredient but have differences in their formulations.
Dysport is very similar to Botox but targets larger areas and may last longer. Jeuveau is a new wrinkle relaxer injectable that tends to be more cost-effective, and DAXXIFY provides long-lasting treatment for frown lines that can last up to six to nine months.
Why Skin Matrix for Xeomin or Botox Treatments - Book an Appointment
You will need a licensed medical professional who specializes in injectables to safely administer your Botox or Xeomin properly.
Dr. Blanka Orloff (MD), the medical director at Skin Matrix, has an extensive background in aesthetic and anti-aging medicine. With over 15 years of experience in injectables, you’ll receive expert care tailored to your unique needs.
Dr. Blanka not only delivers natural-looking results, but our patients experience world-class cosmetic treatments and whole-body wellness services like IV therapy and lymphatic drainage to rejuvenate the entire body.
If you're ready to keep your skin looking smooth and free of creases and lines, call 818-600-6719 or contact our team to book your consultation.