Xeomin vs Botox: Anti-Wrinkle Treatments Compared

In recent years, the popularity of injectable treatments like Botox and Xeomin has skyrocketed, and for a great reason. They’re unbeatable at reducing expression wrinkles. Beyond that, these injections can correct any number of concerns related to muscle activity — they can enhance the lips, refine the neck, or relax a clenching jaw. In this post, we’ll compare Botox vs Xeomin, explaining the differences and similarities between these two anti-aging treatments.

What Are the Differences Between Xeomin and Botox?

Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA) and Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) are both injectable treatments that work by halting muscle contractions, softening wrinkles like frown lines and crow’s feet. The two treatments are nearly indistinguishable, but here are the few small differences.

Time on Market

Botox has been on the market as an FDA-approved medical treatment since 1989 and was approved as a cosmetic treatment in 2002. Xeomin received its FDA approval in 2010. In practice, Botox and Xeomin are incredibly similar and come from trusted manufacturers, so both are reliable options. However, many clients choose to opt for Botox due to its robust reputation and longer history of safe medical and cosmetic use.

Uses

As cosmetic treatments, there is no difference between Botox vs Xeomin. Both are commonly used to treat wrinkles in the upper half of the face, including frown lines, forehead wrinkles, and crows’ feet.

In the medical context, there are some minor differences in how they’re used. Botox is approved by the FDA for use in a very broad range of cases, from involuntary muscle spasms to excessive sweating and urinary incontinence to eyelid twitching and chronic migraines. Xeomin, as a newer product, is approved for a few specific types of involuntary muscle spasms and eyelid twitching, as well as for excessive drooling.

Production Process

Both Botox and Xeomin are produced from the botulinum toxin type A. The toxin undergoes processing and filtering which results in a safe, controlled dose. The resultant material from the Botox filtering process is a crystalline complex of the toxin and trace proteins. Xeomin undergoes an additional filtration process that removes complex proteins, so it is composed almost exclusively of the toxin.

With Botox, the complexing proteins in the product may lead to the development of antibodies, so some patients may develop an immunity to it. This is rare and is more likely to occur with higher doses of Botox over a long period of time. Xeomin’s higher level of filtration means it might be less likely to lead to resistance.

Stability

Another difference is stability. Given that Xeomin is a more filtered formula, it can be kept at room temperature while Botox needs to be refrigerated.

Which Is More Effective, Xeomin or Botox?

Xeomin and Botox are equally effective, with similar dosing and the exact same mechanism of action. They work in the same way to inhibit muscle movement in a way that stops wrinkles in their tracks. Their strength, onset time, and longevity are comparable, so you can expect the same level of wrinkle-free smoothness no matter which one you choose.

Cost Comparison: Xeomin vs. Botox

Most providers charge similar rates for Xeomin and Botox, usually charging either by the unit or by the treatment area. The exact number of units you’ll need depends on the area you’re having treated and your desired results, with some treatments requiring as little as 4 units, and others requiring upwards of 60.

Because Botox and Xeomin have the same level of potency, you can expect to need a similar number of units and end up paying about the same.

If you’re interested in pricing for a Botox treatment at SEV, we recommend booking a free consultation with one of our nurse providers.

Both brands also offer rewards programs. The Allē program allows you to collect points and save on Botox as well as on dermal fillers like Juvederm. You can also check out our Specials page to see if we have any promotions going on to help you save on your Botox injection.

Xeomin vs. Botox Aftercare

The aftercare process for Xeomin and Botox is identical:

• For at least 4 hours after your treatment, don’t bend over or lie down. Go to sleep with your head elevated.
• Avoid rubbing or touching the treated area for 24 hours.
• Take it easy, and avoid exercising or other activities that can elevate your blood pressure for 24 hours after treatment.
• Don’t plan to have any laser hair removal or other treatments near the treatment area for at least 2 weeks after treatment.
• Avoid alcohol, non-steroidal, anti-inflammatories, and blood-thinning medications for 48 hours before and after your appointment, if approved by your doctor.

Botox and Xeomin Comparison Table 

Expert Botox Treatments at SEV

At SEV, our goal has always been to help our clients feel more confident and beautiful by using the most effective and scientifically advanced treatments. When choosing between Xeomin vs Botox, our select locations currently offer Botox due to its impeccable record and long history of clinical safety and efficacy.

We’re also proud to offer other injectables such as Dysport, dermal fillers, Skinvive, Kybella, and more. No matter which injectable you choose, know that our nurse injectors have the aesthetic experience to create precise, tailored results.

If you’re still not sure which is right for you, don’t hesitate to book a consultation or get in touch — we’ll be happy to help you choose the best injectable for you.