Botox® vs. Xeomin®: What’s the Difference?

What are Botox® and Xeomin®?

Both of these injectable treatments fall under the category of neurotoxins or neuromodulators. They both work using botulinum toxin, a compound that acts on targeted facial nerves by blocking the signals they send to your muscles. As a result, the muscles and overlying skin become smooth, and your wrinkles disappear. Limiting these facial motions also prevents wrinkles from getting deeper. 

Botox® vs. Xeomin®: What’s the Difference?

Because they both use botulinum toxin to produce the same biological effect, these two treatments share many similarities. However, the differences can matter when it comes to which one is recommended for you. At Krauss Dermatology, injections like Botox® and Xeomin® are performed by board-certified dermatologists. 

What Do They Contain?

Although botulinum toxin is the active ingredient, Botox® also contains an accessory protein used to stabilize it and help it reach the targeted nerves. Xeomin®, sometimes referred to as the “naked” neurotoxin, does not contain these proteins. As a result, people whose nerves have started to lose responsiveness to Botox® may benefit from changing to other neuromodulators, such as Dysport®, Daxxify® and Xeomin®. 

What Do They Treat?

Both treatments have a range of cosmetic and medical uses. However, Xeomin® is approved to treat forehead lines and lines between the brows, while Botox® is FDA-approved for a wider range of uses. However, both are commonly used wherever your dermatologist feels they will work best. Dysport® and Daxxify® are also approved for cosmetic use.