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Restylane Vs. Botox: Which to Use?

Kristina Cadwell  
February 3, 2022  

The saying “Beauty comes from within” holds true but no matter how devoted we are to mindful living, environmental factors and aging end up leaving a mark on our skin.

That’s why we need assistance from the outside. Innovative cosmetic treatments provide that help quickly and effectively.

Today’s most popular beautifying procedures are injectable treatments that correct wrinkles and plump up the skin. The most popular brands are Botox and Restylane.

Let’s see how Botox and Restylane work, how they differ, and which treatment to choose.

Restylane vs. Botox

Restylane Overview

Restylane is a brand of dermal filler injectables. Designed and FDA-approved to plump up the mid-face area, Restylane reduces wrinkles and folds that form due to aging-related loss of volume and elasticity. It is also approved to smooth the back of the hands.

The main ingredient in Restylane products is hyaluronic acid, a sugar compound that occurs naturally in our bodies. Its concentrations decrease over time, so synthetically derived HA in Restylane works to replace depleted HA, increasing the skin’s moisture levels and plumping up the skin.

Botox Overview

Botox is a brand of neurotoxin injectables designed and FDA-approved to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles in the upper section of the face.

The main ingredient in Botox injectables is botulinum toxin A, a protein derived from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. Its function is to block nerve signals from the brain that cause our muscles to move. By relaxing facial muscle movement, the skin above the muscle becomes tighter and smoother.

Restylane Vs. Botox

Restylane and Botox are among the most popular anti-aging treatments. The procedures are similar, and they provide similar results, but they are designed to treat different facial areas and their results differ in duration.

The following table sums up Restylane and Botox similarities and differences.

RestylaneBotox
Main ingredientHyaluronic acidBotulinum toxin type A
Treatment areasCheeks
Chin
Nasolabial folds
Perioral lines
Lips
Hands
Glabellar lines (frown lines)
Forehead lines
Crow’s feet lines
Onset of resultsImmediateWithin three days
Results durationSix to 18 monthsUp to six months
Cost$625 - $794 per syringe$12.50 per unit

What Areas Can Be Treated?

Restylane products are FDA-approved for the following areas:

  • Cheeks
  • Chin
  • Nasolabial folds
  • Lips
  • Perioral wrinkles
  • Midface contours
  • Hands

Restylane is commonly used off-label to treat the tear-trough (under-eye) area.

The FDA approved Botox for these areas:

Botox is used off-label to reduce wrinkles on the nose (bunny lines), chin, neck, eyebrows, and around the mouth.

Botox Vs. Restylane Results

Depending on the treatment area, Restylane patients enjoy fuller lips, corrected lip asymmetries, plumper cheeks, less visible nasolabial folds, reduced lines around the mouth, and smoother, rejuvenated skin. The results last up to 18 months, depending on the type of Restylane product, the patient’s metabolism, lifestyle habits, etc.

Botox reduces the appearance of moderate to severe lines and wrinkles in the upper facial area. Patients have smoother skin and a limited ability to move the muscles in the treatment area. This prevents overly expressive facial movements, which form wrinkles. Botox results last up to six months.

Common Side Effects

Botox and Restylane patients usually experience mild or no side effects.

This table breaks down the side effects of both treatments.

RestylaneBotox
Common side effectsSwelling
Redness
Pain Bruising
Headache
Tenderness
Lump formation
Itching
Bruising
Swelling
Redness
Pain
Headache
Rare side effectsAllergic reaction
Scabs or scars
Infection
Impaired vision
Impaired hand function
Stroke
Droopy eyelid
Muscle weakness
Trouble breathing
Trouble speaking
Trouble swallowing
Impaired vision
Loss of bladder control

If you experience severe symptoms after the treatment, contact your medical provider right away.

Who Should Avoid the Treatment?

Restylane and Botox are safe for most healthy adults over 21. Patients with certain diseases or conditions should avoid the treatment.

The following conditions may prevent you from having a Restylane treatment:

  • Pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding
  • Previous allergies
  • Bleeding disorders

These conditions may pose a safety risk for potential Botox patients:

  • Pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding
  • Previous allergies
  • Skin infection at the treatment area
  • Muscle or nerve conditions
  • Bleeding disorders

Note: Are you still in doubt whether Botox is for you? Read botox pros and cons, where we break down what you need to consider before getting Botox, or simply look up botox alternatives for removing wrikles.


Consult your chosen medical provider about any health issues and the potential risk of undergoing a Botox or Restylane procedure. Disclose information about the medication you are taking because some drugs may increase the chance of side effects.

Cost

The cost of Restylane and Botox treatments depends on your chosen medical provider’s location, expertise and your skin goals.

At Vibrant Skin Bar, one unit of Botox costs $13.50. The total cost of the treatment typically ranges between $250 and $750.

Restylane products cost between $749 (Restylane Silk) and $749 (Restylane Lyft) per syringe.

Conclusion

Innovative cosmetic injectable treatments like Restylane and Botox help men and women maintain a youthful appearance and glow. Both treatments are FDA-approved, quick, and provide amazing results, justifying their popularity.

If you are ready to try Restylane or Botox, make sure you go to a reputable medical provider with years of experience helping patients fight aging signs and improve their complexion.

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About the Author:
Kristina Cadwell
PA Kristina Cadwell graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She then completed the Physician Assistant program at A.T. Still University graduating with a Masters of Medical Science degree. Kristina has been working in the Aesthetic Medical field for over 10 years. She is certified in neurotoxin cosmetic injection, dermal fillers, Plasma Pen skin tightening, chemical peels, and laser therapy. She is known for producing natural results and has extensive knowledge in diet and exercise allowing her to help you achieve vibrant skin from the inside out.
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