What does Botox do?
Botox (botulinum toxin) temporarily relaxes specific muscles. By softening the movement that creates "dynamic" lines — like frown lines, forehead lines and crow's feet — it makes those lines appear smoother. It works on lines caused by movement and expression, and the effect is temporary, wearing off gradually.
What do dermal fillers do?
Dermal fillers are gel-based injectables (usually hyaluronic acid) that add volume beneath the skin. They restore lost fullness (e.g. in the cheeks), soften static folds, refine contours like the jawline and chin, or enhance the lips. They address volume and structure, and the effect is temporary as the product is gradually metabolised.
The simplest way to tell them apart
- Lines from movement (when you frown or smile) → usually Botox
- Lost volume or static folds/contours (present at rest) → usually fillers
- A quick self-check: if a line is there when your face is still, it's more of a "volume/structure" issue (filler territory); if it appears mainly when you make an expression, it's more of a "muscle" issue (Botox territory). Your doctor confirms this at assessment.
Which do you need — or do you need both?
Many people benefit from both, because facial aging involves both increased muscle-driven lines and lost volume. A whole-face assessment identifies which concerns you have and in what proportion, so the plan is matched to you. Combining them thoughtfully — and conservatively — often gives the most natural, balanced result. Individual results vary.
Are they interchangeable?
No. Using filler where Botox is needed (or vice versa) gives poor, unnatural results — a common reason for disappointing outcomes. This is exactly why a doctor assesses what's actually causing your concern rather than defaulting to one product. The right tool for the right problem is the whole game.