Daxxify vs. Botox: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve been considering a little wrinkle-smoothing but feel like there are way too many options in Calabasas, you’re not alone. Botox has been the household name in wrinkle relaxers for years, but now there’s another option getting a lot of attention: Daxxify.
So, what’s the difference between Daxxify and Botox? Are the results different? Does one last longer? And which one is right for you?
Let’s break it down.
What Do They Have in Common?
Daxxify and Botox are both botulinum toxin type A injectable treatments. They work by temporarily reducing the muscle activity responsible for creating dynamic wrinkles.
Both can be used to soften the appearance of common areas such as:
Forehead lines
Frown lines between the eyebrows
Crow’s feet around the eyes
The goal isn't to completely freeze your face. When dosed appropriately and placed strategically, wrinkle relaxers can help you look refreshed while still looking like yourself.
What Makes Daxxify Different?
The biggest difference is the formulation.
Botox Cosmetic uses a protein called complexing protein as part of its formulation, while Daxxify uses a proprietary peptide-based formulation called Peptide Exchange Technology™. Daxxify does not contain human albumin like Botox; therefore, is considered a Vegan option
Daxxify was designed with a unique peptide-based stabilizing technology that allows it to be formulated without the accessory proteins found in traditional botulinum toxin products.
In other words, while both treatments ultimately work by relaxing targeted muscles, their formulations and manufacturing technologies are different.
How Long Do They Last?
This is one of the biggest reasons people are curious about Daxxify.
Daxxify is designed to provide longer-lasting results than some traditional wrinkle relaxers. The peptide is designed to help bind the toxin to the neuronal membranes and is thought to contribute to DAXXIFY's prolonged effect. In clinical studies, many patients maintained results for around 24 weeks, although individual results vary. With that being said, patients' muscles were not “frozen” for the 6 month period, but rather noted with less movement.
Botox Cosmetic results commonly last around 2.5-3 months, although some people experience longer-lasting results.
Your metabolism, muscle strength, treatment area, dosage, and individual response can all affect how long your results last.
And remember: everyone's face has a different timeline. Your friend's results aren't necessarily going to be your results!
What About How Quickly They Work?
Both treatments can begin showing results within several days.
With Botox, patients often start noticing changes within a few days, with results continuing to develop over the following couple of weeks.
Daxxify can also begin showing results within a few days, with results developing over time.
Because everyone's response is different, we may recommend giving the treatment time to fully settle before evaluating your final result.
Why does DAXXIFY use more units?
You may notice that a DAXXIFY treatment uses a different number of units than Botox. That's because each neuromodulator has its own potency measurement system. 40 units of DAXXIFY is not equivalent to 40 units of Botox, and the products should never be dose-converted simply by comparing the numbers.
Does Daxxify Look More Natural Than Botox?
This is a common question, and the answer isn't necessarily one or the other.
The injector matters.
Neither Daxxify nor Botox automatically creates a more natural result. The final look depends on factors like:
Your anatomy
The muscles being treated
The amount of product used
Injection placement
Your desired level of movement
Your provider's technique and experience
A good treatment plan should be customized to your face rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.
Which One Should You Choose?
There isn't one option that's right for everyone.
Daxxify may be appealing if:
You want a longer-lasting wrinkle-relaxing option
You don't want to schedule treatments as frequently
You're interested in trying a newer formulation
Botox may be appealing if:
You prefer a treatment with a long history of use
You've had good results with Botox in the past
You want a familiar and widely used option
The best neuromodulator isn't necessarily the one that lasts the longest—it's the one that fits your anatomy, goals, treatment area and preferences. Dr. Erin Gordon can help determine which product and treatment plan make sense based on your goals, facial movement, and previous treatment history. Contact us today!