What is Xeomin? And Everything You Need to Know About this Botox Alternative

When it comes to banishing lines and wrinkles, Botulinum Toxin also known as the brand Botox, is not the only option you should know about. There is also Xeomin, an injectable that works the same and is FDA-approved for the treatment of moderate to severe frown lines between the brows.

It may only be the first time that you’ve heard about Xeomin, but this injectable has been around for years. In fact, patients claim that it produces nearly the same results as Botox. Both injectables do have share many similarities, but are also different in some ways. 

Continue reading to learn more about Xeomin and how it differs from Botox.

What exactly is Xeomin and what is it for?

XEOMIN (incobotulinumtoxinA) by Merz Pharmaceuticals is a type of botulism toxin injected into the muscles. This blocks the nerve activity that contributes to wrinkles. As mentioned before, it is used in the forehead, particularly between the brows, to soften or improve the appearance of frown lines or glabellar lines in adults.

Xeomin uses the same active ingredient as Botox, but in different formulation. This is commonly used to treat the same areas in the face, particularly dynamic wrinkles or those that are formed due to repetitive facial expressions. 

Is it the same as Botox?

While Xeomin contains same active ingredient in Botox (Botulinum Toxin type A), it has it in a purified form. This injectable undergoes an additional purification step to make it free from complexing or accessory proteins. 

As Xeomin does not have any additives, it provides a pure form of injectable that the body is less likely to reject or become resistant to. Resistance or immunity has now become an issue with Botox because some patients have developed antibodies to it. This means that it no longer works for them.

Botox, furthermore, requires refrigeration, while Xeomin does not and can be stored at room temperature. This means that Xeomin is less likely to become ineffective and unstable, and is cheaper to ship .

How does it work?

Just like Botox, Xeomin works by temporarily blocking the nerves to a muscle, reducing contractions that can cause frown lines. It targets and blocks the release of the neurotransmitter that causes facial contractions. This then relaxes the facial muscles and smooths away the dynamic wrinkles.  

So is Xeomin better for me than Botox?

If Botox doesn’t work for you or if have developed an immune response to the injections, Xeomin is worth considering. Since this injectable is a pure product that doesn’t contain extra proteins, you are less likely to become resistant to the treatment. This also translates to less risk of allergic reactions.

Xeomin may be right for you if you have moderate to severe glabellar lines. Just be sure to consult an aesthetic doctor to learn more about the treatment, including its benefits and risks.  

How long will the results last?

The results of Xeomin, just like Botox, can last from three to four months. Many patients, however, claim that Xeomin begins to kick in faster, between one to 10 days after the injection. 

It is suggested that when Botox is injected, its active ingredient (Botulinum toxin A) needs to unravel from the protective proteins before it can finally bond to the facial muscles. Xeomin, on the other hand, does not have these additives, causing it to work faster.

What should I avoid after the treatment?

As Xeomin works the same way as Botox, both have similar post treatment instructions. You need to avoid facial massages or manipulation of the area for three to four hours and vigorous exercise 24 hours after treatment. You should also avoid alcohol on treatment day.

You can check out our previous post to learn more about the things you need to know before getting Botulinum Toxin in Singapore. 

Where should I get Xeomin?

A skilled aesthetic doctor should only administer both Botox and Xeomin. This is why when looking for a clinic or an injector, you need to know the training or credentials they have, including their years of experience. Those with a good reputation and extensive experience are better.

Dr. Sylvia Ramirez, the Medical and Scientific Director of Cutis Medical Laser Clinics, has over 20 years’​ experience in aesthetic medicine and is a skilled and trained injector of fillers and Botox in Singapore.

Schedule a Consultation

To find out if you’re a good candidate for the treatment or to determine whether Botox or Xeomin is right for you, contact Cutis Laser Clinics today and schedule a consultation with our Harvard-trained aesthetic doctor, Dr. Sylvia Ramirez.