Clean Beauty Swap: Xeomin

Botox is one of the most popular noninvasive cosmetic procedures in the world, with millions of people getting injections every year. And while Botox is widely considered to be a safe and effective anti-aging treatment, rare side effects can occur.

For those looking to remove a layer of worry from their cosmetic dermatology, Xeomin offers a cleaner alternative to Botox. While there isn’t a huge difference between Xeomin and Botox in terms of their effect — both are used as an injected treatment to temporarily lessen the look of mild to moderate wrinkles on the face — what does set them apart is significant. We’ve broken down everything you need to know about Xeomin, so you can determine for yourself which is right for you.

WHAT IS IT?
Xeomin is a neurotoxin used to temporarily decrease contractions in muscles. Like Botox, it is made of botulinum toxin A, and administered via injection. But unlike Botox, it does not contain additional proteins or preservatives. There is less chance that the patient might build up antibodies to the additives over time, making it a safer, cleaner choice for many. It is primarily used to treat wrinkles between the eyes and forehead, with the effects typically lasting around three months, and longer for many patients. It can also be used in combination with Botox to achieve a variety of effects.

WHO IS XEOMIN FOR?
Xeomin, which has been used in Europe for much longer than it has been approved for use in the United States, is an excellent choice for patients who prefer to use an injectable with a purer formulation. The price of treatment is comparable to that of Botox, and the effects are similar and last about the same amount of time (though informal studies are showing Xeomin may last longer in some patients). Some patients report that Xeomin also feels more natural to them than Botox, meaning they are able to move their facial muscles more after receiving an injection. Botox can have the effect of nearly paralyzing the muscles surrounding the injection site, and many patients say that this frozen feeling is a bit less noticeable with Xeomin.

There are a few considerations you’ll want to keep in mind before and after getting Xeomin, and many are the same as with Botox. It’s best to avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and after getting your injections. Bruising can occur for several hours after injections, and abstaining from alcohol diminishes the risks of bruising and swelling. It’s also best to avoid lying down or inversions for several hours following your procedure, as you do not want the product to move around.

As with any cosmetic injectable, there are some risks and it’s a good idea to discuss treatment with your doctor before you try it. Additionally, it is imperative that you find a licensed, well-trained individual to perform the procedure. Side effects are rare, and they are even rarer in the hands of a qualified professional with advanced expertise in administration. To find a provider near you, click here to view the Xeomin Aesthetic licensed provider directory.