Confused about injectables? This comprehensive beginner's guide breaks down the differences between Botox, fillers, and other injectables, helping you understand which treatment is right for your concerns.
If you're considering injectables for the first time, you've probably heard terms like Botox, fillers, dermal fillers, neuromodulators, and skin boosters—often used interchangeably and confusingly. This guide clarifies the differences and helps you understand what each treatment does.
The Two Main Categories of Injectables
1. Neuromodulators (Muscle Relaxants) — These relax facial muscles to soften dynamic wrinkles caused by repetitive muscle movements. The most common are Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin.
2. Fillers (Volume Restoration) — These add volume beneath the skin to smooth static wrinkles, enhance lips, define cheekbones, and restore lost facial volume. Common fillers use hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, or poly-L-lactic acid.
Key Differences: Botox vs Fillers
Botox treats dynamic wrinkles — lines created by muscle movement (frown lines, forehead creases, crow's feet). It prevents wrinkles from forming or deepening by reducing muscle activity.
Fillers treat static wrinkles and volume loss — lines present at rest, hollow areas, thin lips, and loss of facial definition. They work by filling the space beneath wrinkles or adding volume where the skin has lost fullness with age.
How Long Do Results Last?
Botox: 3–6 months. Results gradually wear off as the body regenerates nerve connections.
Fillers: 6–18 months depending on the type of filler used. Hyaluronic acid fillers (the most common) last 6–12 months. Thicker fillers like Sculptra last 18–24 months.
Which Treatment is Right for You?
If you notice lines that appear when you frown, squint, or raise your eyebrows, but disappear at rest, Botox is the right choice. If you have lines that are visible even when your face is at rest, or you want to add volume and definition, fillers are the answer.
Many people benefit from combining both treatments. A skilled practitioner will assess your concerns during consultation and recommend the appropriate approach for your unique face.
Cost Expectations in Malta
Botox typically costs €8–€15 per unit, with treatment ranging from €150–€400 depending on areas. Fillers range from €300–€800 per syringe depending on the brand and type.