Anti-wrinkle Injectables – Whats the difference?

Botox vs. Dysport vs. Xeomin vs. Jeauveau

Just like brands such as Kleenex have become synonymous with tissue, Botox has become the mainstream term for anti-wrinkle injectables. But did you know that there are 4 FDA-approved injectables (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, & Jeauveau) used in cosmetic aesthetics to reduce lines and wrinkles caused by facial expressions.

One of the most common questions clients ask is: What’s the difference between the four products?

First let’s take a look at the similiarities. All four are used as aesthetic treatments to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeauveau all contain the same active ingredient “Botulinum Toxin A” and originate from the same source-Clostridium Botulinum to temporarily relax the targeted muscle areas on the face and neck.

The results are typically the same with an average onset of 7 days and effects lasting between 3-4 months. So for most clients, they all provide similar results and last around the same amount of time.

So how are they different? While the active ingredient is the same, all four injectables are made by different manufacturers, which leads to different costs and formulations and potential subtle clinical differences.

The main difference between Xeomin and the other three injectables is that Xeomin does not contain any additives while Botox, Dysport and Jeauveau all have these additive proteins clustered around the active part of the Botulinum Toxin.

Xeomin, often referred to as the “naked injectable” contains just one ingredient: botulinum toxin A. The benefit of this is that you are less likely to become resistant to Xeomin, as some people become resistant to the effects of Botox, Dysport and Jeauveau by developing antibodies.

There are also differences in onset-although slight, dosing, and how the products spread as well as the type of additive proteins found within each product, which may not be suitable in clients with certain allergies.

Although the differences are typically subtle, rest assured that during your consultation, we will discuss with you which product will be a better option for you.