Botox, short for botulinum toxin, is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. While it is toxic in high doses, when used in small, controlled amounts, it can be used to temporarily paralyze muscles in the face that cause wrinkles and fine lines. Botox injections are typically used to treat crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead wrinkles, as well as other facial lines and creases.

Filler, also known as dermal filler or soft tissue filler, is a gel-like substance that is injected into the skin to add volume and smooth out wrinkles and fine lines. There are several types of fillers available, including hyaluronic acid fillers, which are the most commonly used, as well as collagen and calcium hydroxylapatite fillers. Fillers are often used to treat nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and wrinkles around the mouth, as well as to enhance lip volume and shape.

Botox injections work by blocking signals from nerves to the muscles, which prevents them from contracting and forming wrinkles. When injected into the targeted muscles, Botox temporarily relaxes them, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Filler injections work by adding volume to the skin and stimulating the body’s natural collagen production. Hyaluronic acid fillers, for example, are made of a substance that is naturally found in the body, and when injected, they attract water to the area, which adds volume and plumps up the skin. Over time, the body absorbs the filler, and the effects gradually wear off.