Facial aesthetic treatments have become increasingly popular in recent years. There are several options available to individuals looking to turn back the clock and enjoy a more youthful appearance. In this guide, we’ll explore two popular treatments, Botox and Xeomin, in detail, comparing the two therapies and providing in-depth information about how the treatments work and what kinds of benefits they offer. 

An introduction to neuromodulators

Botox and Xeomin are facial treatments, which are known as neuromodulators. The International Neuromodulation Society defines neuromodulators as “The alteration of nerve activity through targeted delivery of a stimulus, such as electrical stimulation or chemical agents, to specific neurological sites in the body.” In basic terms, a neuromodulator acts as a messenger, which affects the delivery and transmission of signals between neurons. In the case of Botox, for example, the signal prohibits muscle contraction, reducing the visibility of lines and wrinkles. 

There are several types of injectable neurotoxin treatments, which can be used to smooth lines and rejuvenate the complexion by limiting the movement of the facial muscles. In this guide, we’ll focus on Botox and Xeomin. 

What is Botox?

Botox is one of the most well-known facial aesthetic treatments. As we age, our skin loses elasticity and firmness as a result of a reduction in natural stores of collagen and elastin. The movement of our facial muscles, through smiling, frowning, laughing, and squinting, accelerates the formation of lines and wrinkles once the skin loses its natural bounce. Botox is commonly used to reduce the visibility of facial lines, folds and wrinkles. Botox is a short form of Botulinum toxin type A and it contains a toxin known as Clostridium botulinum. Very small quantities of Botox are injected into the skin to target areas that display visible signs of aging. The treatment works by blocking signals, which prevent contraction of the facial muscles. Once the toxin is present, the muscle cannot function and it is temporarily paralyzed, meaning that the expressions you make when you are upset or happy are less pronounced. 

Because Botox has been around so long, many people who are looking to address signs of aging, including wrinkles around the eyes and mouth, automatically assume that it is the best option for them. In recent years, the range of treatments has diversified and expanded significantly and there are now several injectable facial treatments, which can be used to rejuvenate the skin and make people look and feel younger. 

What is Xeomin?

Xeomin is one of the most recent treatment innovations. Like Botox, Xeomin is injected into targeted areas of the skin to tackle wrinkles and lines and create a smoother, younger complexion.  Although similar to Botox, there are key differences. The most significant difference between Botox and Xeomin lies in the formulation. Xeomin does not contain any additive proteins. Botox contains additional proteins, known as accessory proteins, which form a protective complex that is designed to help the toxin perform. Xeomin is sometimes referred to as a ‘purified’ form of the toxin, as it only contains botulinum toxin. The ‘naked’ structure of  Xeomin can help to eliminate the effects of allergy or antibody resistance, which can occur as a result of repeated treatments. 

Xeomin or Botox: Which lasts longer?

If you’re considering having cosmetic treatment, and you’re weighing up your options, you may be wondering which injectable offers the longest-lasting results? Both Xeomin and Botox are temporary treatments. Every individual is different, but typically, you can expect the results to last around 3 months. The primary difference between Xeomin and Botox is the emission of accessory proteins. Xeomin is a purified form of botulinum toxin, which is beneficial for clients who are considering repeat treatment. With other injectables, for example, Botox, it is possible to build up antibody resistance, which can impact the effects of treatment and how long the treatment lasts. Xeomin does not contain additive proteins and therefore, this treatment may be recommended for those who have developed a tolerance to other treatments and are seeing the effects of other treatments such as Botox diminish and not last as long as when they first started treatment. 

Some people have Botox or Xeomin on a regular or ongoing basis, while others will be looking to have treatment for the first time or searching for a therapy they can use on a less frequent basis to make them look younger. The decision you make when comparing different treatments will depend on several factors, including how often you want to have treatment. If you’re keen to have treatment every few months to keep your complexion looking as youthful as possible, for example, experts may recommend a different option to an individual who wants to have fewer treatment sessions over a prolonged period. 

What does treatment involve?

If you’ve never had Botox or Xeomin treatment before, it’s natural to have questions about what the treatment process entails and what happens when you book a consultation. Before you have treatment, you will meet with experts to discuss the procedure in detail and prepare for your treatment. Both Xeomin and Botox are targeted treatments, which provide benefits for parts of the skin that display visible signs of aging. Your practitioner will explain what will happen when you have treatment, what to expect after the session and how the treatment works. They will also be able to answer questions and provide reassurance if you’re feeling a little nervous or anxious. 

Xeomin and Botox can be used to treat a range of symptoms and common signs of aging, and your treatment will be planned in advance. Some people will have multiple areas treated, while others may want to focus on one or two areas. Once your treatment plan is complete, a very fine needle will be used to inject either Botox or Xeomin into the skin. Treatment usually takes around 15-30 minutes, depending on the number of areas treated. 

What to expect after treatment

After treatment, some people experience mild redness or swelling. These side-effects subside very quickly, usually within 30-60 minutes. It is possible to experience mild bruising after treatment, which may last up to 10 days. 

It usually takes around 3-4 days for the effects of Xeomin or Botox treatment to become visible. The full effects will be noticeable after 2 weeks. 

Which treatment is best for me?

Both Xeomin and Botox are highly effective, targeted facial treatments, which are capable of smoothing lines and wrinkles to create a youthful, radiant complexion. The procedure for both treatments is very similar. The process is simple and quick, with most appointments complete in less than 30 minutes. Both treatments produce temporary results, lasting about 3 months, although repeated treatment may extend the duration of effect as the targeted muscle groups may weaken and shrink providing longer-lasting results. The main difference between the two treatments is the formula. Botox contains accessory proteins, which are not present in Xeomin. The result is enhanced efficacy when using Xeomin repeatedly or utilizing it in individuals who may have built up a tolerance of injectables as a result of a repeat treatment. 

There is no right or wrong answer to this question, and the treatments are very similar. If you’re unsure which option to go for, experienced practitioners can help you make a decision by providing detailed answers to questions, explaining key differences between the two injectables and offering tailored recommendations based on your individual needs and preferences. In some cases, Botox may prove the best choice, while in others, Xeomin may offer additional benefits. It is important to take your time to think about your treatment options and ask questions before you make a decision. There are multiple factors you might want to consider, including the cost of treatment, the areas you want to target, and whether or not you’ve had treatment in the past or you plan to have multiple sessions in the years to come. 


Injectable fillers and anti-wrinkle treatments have become incredibly popular in recent years. If you are looking to reduce the visibility of wrinkles or rejuvenate your skin, you may have come across solutions, including Botox and Xeomin. Botox and Xeomin tackle facial folds and lines by preventing muscle contraction. Both treatments produce temporary effects, with results lasting approximately 3 months. There are advantages to both treatments and it’s wise to consider the benefits and compare the options before making a decision. Our experienced practitioners can provide all the information you need to decide which treatment is best for you. The cost of treatment, the signs you wish to target, for example, glabella lines or crow’s feet, and the frequency with which you plan to have treatment may all influence your decision.