If you want to soften wrinkles, you have probably heard of neuromodulators like Botox and Daxxify. These treatments help smooth lines on your forehead, around your eyes, and between your brows. Botox has been popular for years. Daxxify is a newer option that’s making waves in the cosmetic world. SkinDC in Arlington uses both products to offer a nonsurgical way to refresh your appearance.
What Are Neuromodulators?
Neuromodulators are injectable treatments. They relax the muscles that cause lines and creases in your skin. Common choices include Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, and Daxxify. These treatments share a similar main ingredient: botulinum toxin type A. When injected into a muscle, the product stops the nerve signals that prompt that muscle to contract. As the muscle relaxes, the overlying skin tends to look smoother.
If you’ve spent years frowning, laughing, or raising your brows, you may see lines on your forehead and around your eyes. Neuromodulators target those areas to soften the creases that form from your expressions. You don’t have to stop smiling. You simply get a way to lessen the look of lines that appear at rest.
Why Consider Neuromodulators?
Choosing an injectable from SkinDC can be an easy way to slow signs of aging with minimal downtime. You may not want to commit to surgery. You might also prefer a quick visit that lets you get back to your routine right away. Neuromodulators check those boxes. Here are a few perks:
- Fast Treatments: Appointments often wrap up in under 30 minutes. Some people schedule them during a lunch break.
- Little to No Downtime: Most folks can continue with their day after leaving the office.
- Predictable Results: Botox has a long track record of smoothing worry lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines. Daxxify offers a fresh alternative with a similar goal.
- Tailored Approach: A trained injector can help you decide the best sites and amounts for your needs.
While both Botox and Daxxify do the same thing—relax muscles—the length of results and the formulation differ slightly. Botox often lasts three to four months. Daxxify may offer a longer window for some. That difference can be a deciding factor if you have a busy life and want fewer appointments. But results vary from person to person.
Daxxify vs. Botox: What’s the Difference?
Although both products stem from botulinum toxin type A, they have distinct formulations. Botox has been around for years and is well-known for consistency. Daxxify arrived more recently and includes a special peptide in its recipe. This extra ingredient may allow it to last longer.
- Duration of Results: Many people see Botox results for three to four months. Some Daxxify users notice smoother skin for up to six months or more.
- Formula Differences: Daxxify contains a peptide-based formula designed to help the product stay effective longer.
- Dosage and Treatment Frequency: Botox often calls for appointments a few times a year. Daxxify may reduce the number of treatments needed.
- Cost: Because Daxxify might last longer, the price per visit can be higher than Botox. However, fewer sessions may offset that difference.
Both products address frown lines, forehead lines, and crow’s feet. A professional injector, like one at SkinDC, can share which option suits your lifestyle. A lot depends on how your body responds, your personal preferences, and your budget.
Who Should Consider These Treatments?
A good candidate is someone who wants to soften facial lines without surgery. You might feel that your frown lines make you look annoyed, even when you’re not. Or maybe your forehead creases have become more obvious than you’d like. Neuromodulators can offer a subtle refresh that still looks natural.
You’ll want to talk to a trained provider about your goals. It’s also wise to share any medical conditions or past surgeries you’ve had. Some people can’t have botulinum toxin injections. For instance, those with certain neuromuscular disorders may need to skip this type of treatment. A thorough conversation will help your provider spot any concerns.
If you’re pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant, our providers will likely advise waiting. It’s better to hold off than to take a risk during pregnancy. Your dermatologist or injector can let you know when it’s safer to proceed.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Visiting our dermatology office in Arlington for a treatment session is easy. You’ll likely start with a quick discussion about your areas of concern. Our provider will then map out the best injection spots and may mark your skin with a pen.
- Preparation: Your provider may ask about any medications or supplements you take. You may need to pause blood thinners if it’s safe to do so.
- Cleansing the Skin: Our provider will clean your face and might apply a numbing cream, though many say the tiny needle pricks are easy to handle.
- Injections: The actual injection process usually takes just a few minutes. You’ll feel a small pinch.
- Aftercare: You might see tiny bumps or light redness at the injection sites. These tend to fade fast, often within an hour. Your provider may ask you not to rub or massage the area for a bit. You might also want to avoid exercise or lying down for a few hours. This helps the product settle in the right place.
How Long Do Results Take to Appear?
You may see small changes within a few days. Your forehead may look smoother. Deep creases may start to look less pronounced. Most SkinDC patients see the full effect in about one to two weeks. Daxxify may follow a similar timeline, but you might notice that the results last longer after they’re fully set.
If you schedule your appointment before a big event, plan to do so at least two weeks in advance. That window helps your face look its best with time to spare. The last thing you want is to feel rushed or stressed.
Common Questions You Might Have
Got questions? So do many of your Arlington neighbors.
1. Will it look obvious?
It doesn’t have to. A skilled injector, like those on our SkinDC team, can use doses that smooth lines while leaving enough facial movement for you to look expressive. Depending on your preferences, you can request a gentle or stronger approach.
2. Is one better than the other?
Neither Botox nor Daxxify is “better” across the board. Both work well. The main difference is how long each product tends to last. Some like the tried-and-true feel of Botox. Others enjoy the longer duration of Daxxify. A dermatology professional can help you pick the best fit for your needs.
3. Is Daxxify safe if it’s new?
Daxxify is FDA-approved. Studies have been done to confirm its safety and effectiveness. Its formula shares the same main ingredient used in Botox. It also includes a peptide to help the product stay in place.
4. Can I combine these with other treatments?
Yes. Many people combine neuromodulators with fillers, laser treatments, or chemical peels. That said, you’ll want to space out certain services to keep them from overlapping or affecting each other. Ask your provider for a plan that fits your schedule.
5. Can I switch from Botox to Daxxify or vice versa?
Switching is possible. If you find that one doesn’t last as long as you’d like, or if you’re curious about something new, you can try the other. Be sure to talk with your provider about your goals and any past experiences. They can help you see if it makes sense to move on to another brand.
Final Thoughts
Neuromodulators like Botox and Daxxify bring many perks to the table. They help relax the muscles that form those pesky lines on your forehead and around your eyes. You can see a refreshed look without a big commitment or downtime. Whether you prefer the classic choice of Botox or want to give Daxxify a try, your results can look natural and polished.
If you’re near Arlington and looking for a trusted skincare provider, connect with SkinDC. Ask about your options, share your goals, and decide which product feels right for you. You’ll likely leave your appointment feeling excited about a smoother appearance that fits your lifestyle. Let your confidence shine through with a little help from an experienced team. Start smoothing out your skin here.