While they both are found to be effective in diminishing facial wrinkles, the generality ends there. These treatments work in unique ways. Botox is used more often, if not exclusively, in the upper face. While Collagen is used exclusively in the lower face and lips. Deciding what to use and in which combinations and dosages happens at the time of your personal consultation. Then, after continuing re-evaluation of your progress and satisfaction on follow-up visits, your treatment is personalized. The treatment takes about 30 minutes.

Botox Treatment for Wrinkles

Botox is especially effective for three areas in the upper face: Frown Lines of the Glabella, crowfeet of the eyes, and Wrinkles of the Forehead. Botox is a bio-protein formulated from micro-organisms. It has been used for a long time in medicine for different non-cosmetic uses. Botox is specially formulated for cosmetic applications by diluting, so it can be used to relax the facial muscles that cause wrinkles and some undesirable facial expressions with almost no side effects.

Collagen Treatment for Wrinkles

Collagen treatment for wrinkles is a protein that is utilized to fill in the skin both at a superficial level or a deeper level. Almost all areas of the face may be treated, with some exceptions. Lips and the nasal labial folds are the most common areas. As a dermal filler, Collagen works as a natural protein by offering a smooth expansion in the chosen areas under the skin to yield the desired effect. It can be transitioned with full accuracy, using very fine injections.

Collagen lasts for around 4 months. The bovine collagen (that comes from cows) requires a skin test. A superficial skin test is placed much like the tuberculosis skin test, then waiting for 6 weeks to check for a reaction. Nearly 2-3% of the individuals will show a positive reaction. If the skin test is negative, the doctor proceeds with either type of Collagen. If it is positive, and the doctor chooses to proceed with a Collagen, they would use the “new” collagen, which in the opinion of the manufacturer is not associated with allergic reactions.

The Botox Procedure

Botox® is a purified protein that is formulated from a micro-organism. This “bio-protein” is used in a small amount to block nerve-to-muscle impulses. Botox® can help decrease the upper facial muscle contractions that are responsible for your frown lines. The treatment starts by applying a cold pack to the area to be treated, then the Botox® is injected. The tiny pinprick sensation triggered by the injection is quelled by the cooling and injection technique, used in the clinic.

The Collagen Procedure

Cosmetic ‘Collagen’ is a skin protein formulated and purified from bovine (cow) tissue. Cosmetic Collagen is injected right under the skin’s surface, where the body usually accepts it as its own. Treatment with collagen creates a visible difference almost instantly in the appearance of the skin. The skin’s natural collagen support layer is thus boosted. This induces smoothing of facial lines and certain types of scars. Collagen treatment for wrinkles is also effective in improving the appearance of the lips and lip borders.