Xeomin vs. Botox - Which is Better?

Great question.  These are both similar neuromodulating agents that give excellent results when it comes to softening the appearance of facial lines.
The main difference between these two medications is that Botox is a molecule that has a carrier protein attached to it and Xeomin is a "naked" toxin.  When Botox is injected the protein disconnects within a minute of injection and then the Botox becomes active.  Xeomin is active immediately as soon as it is injected.  
Because Xeomin is a "naked" molecule it is possible that it may be useful in patients who have become tolerant to Botox.  It may also be useful in patients who are allergic to the Botox carrier protein.
I have had thousands of patients with wonderful results from both products, as well as with Dysport.
As always, an in-person consultation with a board certified dermatologist with cosmetic training is the best way to assess your needs and provide medical advice. 

Hello.  Great question.  Since 2009, two new neurotoxins have been introduced, Dysport and Xeomin.  Both are close in composition to Botox and all three are Botulinum Toxin Type A.  in our practice, we do not use Xeomin, but we have done our own trial with it.  The concern that we had was that 20 units of Xeomin we did not feel was lasting as long as 20 units of Botox or 60 units of Dysport.  In our minds, more Xeomin was necessary to achieve the same result as with our Botox and Dysport, so we did not decide to start using the product.  Some patients and practitioners actually prefer the products, but we feel there are small differences.  

Botox and Xeomin are essentially the same.  They each contain botulinum toxin A. However, Botox also has a protein, whereas Xeomin does not. Results with Xeomin & Botox take 1-2 weeks. Best, Dr. Emer