With so many treatments on the market these days, it is often difficult to work out which is best for your particular concern, especially when the treatments do a different thing and work in a separate way. This article discusses the differences between a Profhilo treatment and a Botox® treatment. It aims to help you work out which one is the best treatment for your skin condition, and given the choice, which would be of more benefit to your skin quality.
Although Botox® has entered the popular vocabulary as a wrinkle-relaxing treatment, the word ‘Botox’ is actually a registered trademark for a specific brand of injectable product. There are other names for Botox® injections out there, and all will contain the same ingredient – botulinum toxin, sometimes abbreviated to ‘Bot. A’.
Bot. A injections will block chemical signals in the injection site to smooth lines and wrinkles caused by repeated muscle movements. The muscles temporarily relax. These procedures are often termed ‘anti-wrinkle injections’. Bot. A has been used in various applications in adults and children (for spasm treatment, in case you were wondering) since the 1970s.
In the context of this article, it is used for the temporary paralysis of facial muscles that cause what are known as ‘dynamic’ lines or wrinkles on the face or elsewhere. Botox® in aesthetics is mostly used in the upper facial area to treat areas such as the sides of the eyes and the forehead, but it can be used in many other areas of the body.
Like Botox®, Profhilo is also an injectable treatment. It also sits in its own category. Profilo is described as a ‘hyaluronic acid (HA) moisturising treatment’, but you may see clinics describe it as a ‘skin booster’ or a ‘bio-remodelling’ treatment.
You will recognise HA as an ingredient of dermal fillers, being a naturally occurring water-binding molecule. Profhilo uses the same substance as far as being composed of HA, but it differs in the way it is stabilised. This property allows the Profhilo treatment to stimulate collagen and elastin levels within the skin without adding any volume to the face. Profhilo deeply hydrates to improve skin quality and give a tightening effect.
With regards to areas of use, it works better in the mid and lower face regions as well as the neck. It can also be used in body areas such as the hands and décolletage.
Botox® is well-known for its effectiveness in reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles and fine lines. The duration of its effects can vary depending on the individual and lifestyle factors, but generally, in answer to the question ‘How long does Botox® work for?’, Botox® will last you between 3 to 4 months. Most patients begin to see the effects within a few days of the injection, with the peak results typically visible around two weeks post-treatment.
Patients should note that the longevity of Botox® and treatment results can be influenced by factors such as the area treated, the dose administered, the individual’s muscle strength and metabolism, and the skin’s quality. For first-time users, the effects may not last as long initially but may extend after subsequent treatments. Over time, with regular treatments, some patients find that they need fewer sessions to maintain their desired look.
Profhilo offers a different approach to facial rejuvenation. It is known for its hydrating properties and also the ability to stimulate collagen and elastin production within the skin. The effects of Profhilo can last for about 6 to 9 months, which is notably longer than some traditional dermal fillers.
The longevity of Profhilo’s results can be attributed to its unique formulation and patented NAHYCO technology The formulation not only provides glowing skin and immediate hydration but also promotes long-term skin health.
For optimal results, it is recommended to undergo a follow-up treatment after the initial treatment. The duration of Profhilo’s effects can vary based on factors such as the skin’s condition and the patient’s lifestyle and age. Sun exposure and exercise routine could also have a bearing on longevity too.
Age Group: Typically, individuals in their late 20s to mid-60s. Botox® is most effective on wrinkles such as forehead lines that haven’t yet set in too deeply.
Skin Type and Concerns: Those with skin that shows signs of dynamic wrinkles due to muscle movement. Botox® is particularly effective for individuals with moderate to severe dynamic wrinkles.
Overall Goals: Ideal for those seeking to smooth out existing wrinkles and prevent the deepening of these lines in the future.
Health Considerations: Candidates should be in good general health, not pregnant or breastfeeding, and without neuromuscular diseases.
Age Group: Suitable for a wide range of ages but particularly beneficial for individuals in their 30s to 60s experiencing signs of skin ageing.
Skin Type and Concerns: Ideal for those with dehydrated, dull, or sagging skin. Profhilo is excellent for individuals noticing a loss of skin elasticity and firmness.
Overall Goals: Perfect for candidates seeking a more youthful, hydrated, radiant skin tone, both improving texture and appearance. It’s also suited for treatment with more subtle, natural-looking results.
Health Considerations: Candidates should be in overall good health. Profhilo is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or individuals with allergies to its components.
It makes sense that if you are having an injectable treatment for one concern, if it is safe and appropriate, you also have another treatment on the same visit. This happens a lot in aesthetic clinics. It also makes sense as both attract minimal downtime.
The question is, can the two be combined? The answer in this case is yes, as the two treatments play different roles. Botox® addresses dynamic wrinkles and prevents further deepening of these lines; Profhilo is more attuned to enhancing overall skin quality and hydration, tackling signs of ageing like loss of elasticity. Aesthetic practitioners know it will effectively target skin laxity. They can be used both in separate targeted areas or can be combined in the same facial area.
Both treatments offer unique benefits; the ideal candidate for each depends on their specific skin concerns and aesthetic goals. Patients should bear in mind that combination treatments should only be done under the guidance and supervision of an experienced doctor or at least a fully qualified medical professional, as they are best equipped to judge the safety and effectiveness of concurrent treatments.
The duration of effect for both Botox® and Profhilo are given as general estimates. As with many of these treatments, individual results may vary based on various factors, including individual physiological differences and the specific aesthetic practitioner technique.
We hope we have explained the key differences, but if you would like to know more about how Botox or Profhilo work, or indeed any of our non-invasive treatments, please get in touch. Dr. Damalis will be happy to explain any aspect of any anti-ageing treatment.
Our aesthetic clinic in London is led by Dr Stephanie Damalis, an aesthetic doctor with 12 years of experience. She offers leading cosmetic treatments including anti-wrinkle treatments, skin procedures and dermal fillers.
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