Used in aesthetic medicine to treat the signs of aging and sagging skin, botox and hyaluronic acid can often be confused. But they don't work in the same way! How can you tell the difference? Here's the lowdown.  

The difference between botox and hyaluronic acid 

Botox and hyaluronic acid are both injectable cosmetic treatments used to reduce the signs of aging and improve skin appearance, but they work differently! 

What exactly is botox?

Botox, or botulinum toxin, is a protein produced by a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. Injected directly into the muscles responsible for expression lines (such as crow's feet), deep wrinkles and fine lines, botox temporarily blocks the nerve signals that stimulate these muscles, causing them to relax and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. The effects of botox generally last from three to six months.

What exactly is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance present in the body, particularly in the skin and joints. When injected into the skin, it fills in wrinkles and folds, adding volume to cheekbones, for example, and firmness to the skin. Unlike botox, which acts by blocking nerve signals, hyaluronic acid acts directly on the skin, adding volume like a filler. 

In short, botox (muscle relaxant) and hyaluronic acid (filler) are both popular injectable treatments for reducing the signs of ageing, but they act differently. Botox blocks the nerve signals that stimulate the muscles responsible for expression lines, while hyaluronic acid adds volume and firmness to the skin by filling it!

How long do treatments last? 

Botox and hyaluronic acid are temporary solutions that need to be repeated if you want to prolong their results. Exactly how long does a botox injection last? What about hyaluronic acid? 

For botox? 

The exact time it takes for the results of diluted botulinum toxin injections to take effect can vary from person to person. It all depends and varies on factors such as: the area treated, the amount of product injected, individual muscle strength and the body's response. On average, the results of a Botox injection generally last between three and six months.

After this period, the effects of Botox start to gradually diminish and the muscles begin to reactivate, which can lead to a return of fine lines and wrinkles in the treated area. This is why Botox injections must be repeated regularly to maintain the desired results! It's important to note that Botox does not provide permanent results, and injections must be carried out by a qualified professional to minimize risks and ensure effective treatment.

For hyaluronic acid? 

As with botox, thetreatment time for a hyaluronic acid injection depends on a number of factors, including the area treated, the quantity of product injected, the quality of the product used, and the patient's individual characteristics, such as age, lifestyle and metabolism. On average, the results of a hyaluronic acid injection last between six months and a year, which is much longer than botox.

However, it's important to note that some patients may experience even longer-lasting results! The doctor or healthcare professional performing the injection will be able to give a more precise estimate of how long the results will last, depending on your particular case. Once again, as with botox, it's important to understand that the results of hyaluronic acid injections are not permanent! Regular injections are therefore necessary to maintain the desired appearance... As with any aesthetic procedure, it's important to discuss all the potential risks and benefits with a qualified professional before making any decisions.

A botox or hyaluronic acid treatment does not prevent you from continuing your usual skincare routine! You can (and should) continue to care for your skin with your usual serum, cream or lotion. ROSEGOLD products, formulated for the most part in a natural way, can help your routine! 

What are the side effects of these two treatments? 

As with all things, this kind of treatment can have undesirable effects, and you need to follow the rules in the first few days after the injections (including the list of things to avoid after hyaluronic acid or botox injections ).

It's important to consider the side effects before deciding on one or the other. If in doubt, be sure to discuss the matter with the aesthetic doctor in charge of the injections. 

For botox? 

• Bruising, redness or swelling at the injection site
• Headaches
• Pain or tenderness at the injection site
• Nausea
• Temporary muscle weakness

In rare cases, Botox can cause more serious side effects, which may result in social exclusion, including:

• An allergic reaction to Botox, which can lead to rash, itching, swelling or difficulty breathing.
• Excessive muscle weakness, which can affect non-target muscles and lead to difficulty swallowing, speaking or breathing.
• Ptosis or drooping of the upper eyelid, which can affect vision.
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing.

For hyaluronic acid? 

• Swelling, redness, bruising or pain at the injection site
• Subcutaneous nodules
• Itching, tingling or burning at the injection site
• Sensitivity to touch

As with botox, hyaluronic acid injections can have more serious side effects, including:

• An allergic reaction, which may cause skin rash, itching, swelling or difficulty breathing.
• Infection at the injection site
• Vascular occlusion, which can lead to skin necrosis or blindness.