Happy three day weekend, friends!
In an effort to be more transparent (one of my goals for 2020), I had mentioned on Instagram Stories that I was going in for my routine Botox appointment. I got so many responses from you all asking questions, that I decided to put this post together for you as a helpful resource! I also tried something new on the market and wanted to include my thoughts on that as well. Let’s jump in!
While I was there, my doctor asked me if I wanted to try the newest form of Botox, called Jeuveau. In case your new to this, Botox is a brand of injectable neurotoxin, similar to how Kleenex is a brand but everyone calls all tissues Kleenex. A brand name virtually interchangeable with the category itself. Get it? Anyways, this new Jeuveau is being marketed as #Newtox all over social media. I have heard of it but didn’t really know much about it… and since I love to be a resource for you all and human guinea pig, I said yes let’s try the #Newtox! Also, to keep this comparison completely fair, I got the exact same amount of Jeuveau in the exact same places that I always get my Botox.
Here are my thoughts on the difference between Botox vs. Jeuveau (#Newtox), along with all my answers to the questions you asked me over on Instagram.
Botox Vs. Jeuveau (#Newtox)
Let me start this by saying I am not an expert and this is only my understanding of the differences between the two brands. As always, consult your doctor and the person injecting you.
The major differences between Botox and Jeuveau lie in their production, cost, and occasionally their use. They’re produced in different facilities (Botox is made in Ireland & Jeuveau is made in South Korea) and are derived from different strains of the same toxin . As far as their uses, Botox is FDA approved for a variety of aesthetic and medical issues, including excessive sweat reduction and treating migraines. Since Botox was first used in the medical market before it was approved for cosmetics, it is subject to insurance coverage and reimbursements. However, Jeuveau is only FDA approved for treating glabellar lines (aka the number 11 wrinkles). Since it is purely cosmetic, they are able to go around medical-industry billing which saves the company and providers money, making it approximately 20-30% cheaper for patients.
In my own experience, the only physical difference I have seen is that the Jeuveau took effect within 2 days of my injections. Normally Botox takes about a week (even up to two weeks) to see the final outcome. I am curious to see if the Jeuveau lasts as long and will update this in a few months.
Botox Q+A’s
When should I start getting Botox?
Personally, I started getting it when I was 26-ish and it was mostly as a preventative in my forehead. By relaxing the muscles in your forehead you can help prevent new wrinkles from forming. I started getting it around my eyes for crows feet when I was 28 (I squint a ton from the sun and my bad vision). Now as a 29 year old, I do it both as a preventative and to get rid of the wrinkles that I already have.
Does it hurt?
The entire appointment is under 15 minutes with only a few of those minutes being the actual injections. I do have a pretty high pain tolerance, but I feel like it doesn’t hurt at all. Does hurt a tad bit more around the eyes but still totally tolerable. Similar to a small pinch for 2-3 seconds and then it’s over.
How much does it cost?
This is going to vary greatly upon where you live and what type of place you get it done at. Do your research, ask your local friends for recommendations, and see if there are any specials being offered before you make an appointment. Botox in Southern California is anywhere from $11-$15 per unit. Jeuveau is expected to cost about 20% less.
How many units do you get?
I started small with about 12-15 units. Now I am up to 20-25 units and that includes both my forehead and around my eyes.
How long does it last?
It typically lasts 3-4 months on average. However, I did feel like it lasted longer when i was younger, about 6 months or so. It depends on how fast your body metabolizes it and how many wrinkles you are trying to hide, ha!
Is there any down time?
There is typically no down time after injections. They just say to not exercise for 24 hours (so you don’t sweat it all out) and to not lie down for a few hours. My first time getting injections they gave me some ice to apply immediately after but I find that it is unnecessary now and don’t need it. This last appointment I went straight to dinner with my family.
Any other side effects?
I am assuming this is related to your face becoming frozen, ha! There are so many stigmas around Botox, secrets, and lack of resources (another reason I wanted to do this post). I always tell my doctor that I want a more natural look. My own mom didn’t even notice I got it and I see her almost everyday! I can still move my eyebrows and make every expression, it just softens everything.
My Final Thoughts
Alright, here is what I think about Botox Vs. Jeuveau (#Newtox). If you are new to getting injectables and on a tighter budget, I would recommend trying Jeuveau. It’s definitely a more affordable alternative to Botox and a great option for first-time patients. I also love their marketing strategy – targeting younger millennials with emojis, an app, and lots of pink. It is definitely appealing to a whole new group of consumers that is aging into the aesthetic marketplace. However, I don’t think Jeuveau is converting current Botox patients. If you are happy with your current Botox injections, then there is no need to switch it up. I’m content with my Jeuveau right now, but will be be returning to my usual Botox at my next appointment.
As always, please reach out to me via Instagram DMs if you have any questions! I love hearing from you all and chatting!