Did you know there are different kinds of Botox? Here at Tysons Internal Medicine, we offer both BOTOX® and XEOMIN® treatments. Dr. Lorena Popp, founder of the practice, will personally handle your treatments and is both a board-certified internist and expert in Aesthetic Medicine. She can discuss the details of these treatments with you and help you decide which option is the best fit to meet your needs and specifications here in our Northern Virginia office. 

BOTOX® and XEOMIN® are FDA-approved neurotoxins used to treat fine lines and wrinkles. Although both treatments are used for similar purposes, there are some distinct differences between them that may influence your decision when choosing a treatment.

The Similarities

Both BOTOX® and XEOMIN® have been approved by the FDA for treating facial wrinkles. Both are administered via an injection and the results are long-lasting but not permanent. In order to sustain long-term results, patients usually need another dosage of treatment every three to four months.

Both neurotoxins work by relaxing the facial muscles and blocking nerve impulses that contract them.

The Differences

The primary difference between BOTOX® and XEOMIN® are the components that make up each one. XEOMIN® only contains one ingredient, known as botulinum toxin Type A. BOTOX®, however, is made up of many different kinds of proteins. XEOMIN® is considered the “purer” neurotoxin, and its singular ingredient means there is less chance that a patient will develop antibodies that will prevent it from producing the desired effects. Additionally, XEOMIN® does not have to be refrigerated before it is used, making it more cost effective and easier to distribute.

The only drawback XEOMIN® has when compared to BOTOX®, is that it can take longer for the effects to manifest. BOTOX® usually starts working within three days, whereas XEOMIN® can take up to four days.

Dr. Popp will discuss both options with you in depth and help decided which route is best for you. Although XEOMIN® has many advantages compared to BOTOX®, it is not suitable for every patient.