Looking to smooth frown lines, crow’s feet, or forehead wrinkles? Two of the most common injectable treatments are Xeomin and Botox. Both relax targeted facial muscles to reduce the look of dynamic wrinkles, but they differ in formulation, onset, approvals, and what patients and clinicians may prefer. Let’s break it down.
How Xeomin Works
Xeomin is a purified form of botulinum toxin type A that does not include accessory proteins in the finished product.
- Active ingredient: Botulinum toxin type A without accessory proteins
- Onset: usually 3 to 4 days for visible softening
- Duration: about 3 to 4 months, varies by dose, area, and metabolism
- Approvals: FDA approval for glabellar frown lines
- Why some choose it: simple formulation and consistent results in aesthetic use
How Botox Works
Botox is a widely studied botulinum toxin type A formulation that includes accessory proteins around the active molecule.
- Active ingredient: Botulinum toxin type A with accessory proteins
- Onset: often 2 to 3 days for visible softening
- Duration: about 3 to 4 months, similar to Xeomin
- Approvals: FDA approvals for glabellar lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines
- Why some choose it: long clinical history and broad usage data
Xeomin vs. Botox Comparison Table
| Feature | Xeomin | Botox |
|---|---|---|
| Formulation | Botulinum toxin A without accessory proteins | Botulinum toxin A with accessory proteins |
| Onset | About 3 to 4 days | About 2 to 3 days |
| Duration | About 3 to 4 months | About 3 to 4 months |
| FDA approvals | Glabellar frown lines | Glabellar lines, crow’s feet, forehead lines |
| Best for | Patients who prefer a simpler formulation | Patients who value brand longevity and broad data |
| Downtime | No true downtime. Possible minor redness or swelling at injection points for a short time. | |
Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?
If you want a purified formulation without accessory proteins, Xeomin may suit you. If you prefer a product with a long clinical track record and multiple aesthetic approvals, Botox may be a better fit. Results depend on accurate assessment, dosing, and precise injection technique. A consultation helps align your goals with the right product and plan.
References
- Comprehensive review of incobotulinumtoxinA for aesthetic use
- Clinical efficacy and tolerability of incobotulinumtoxinA
- Overview of botulinum toxin type A formulations
- Safety and long term use of botulinum toxin in facial aesthetics
- Comparative pharmacology of BoNT A formulations
Disclaimer: Educational content only. Always seek an in person medical evaluation before treatment.