The difference between Botox and Xeomin
- Brenda at Face It Aesthetics

- Mar 23
- 4 min read
When it comes to smoothing wrinkles and refreshing your look, Botox and Xeomin are two names you often hear. Both are popular treatments that help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, but they are not exactly the same. If you’re considering medical-grade skin treatments, understanding the differences between these two options can help you make a confident choice.
In this post, I’ll walk you through what Botox and Xeomin are, how they work, their differences, and what you might expect from each. I’ll also share some insights about how these treatments fit into the range of services offered at places like Face It Smooth Aesthetics in Belfast, Maine.

What are Botox and Xeomin?
Both Botox and Xeomin are injectable treatments made from botulinum toxin type A. This toxin temporarily relaxes muscles that cause wrinkles, especially around the eyes, forehead, and between the eyebrows. By relaxing these muscles, the skin smooths out, giving a younger, fresher appearance.
Botox has been around longer and is the most well-known brand.
Xeomin is a newer product but works in a very similar way.
Both are FDA-approved for cosmetic use and have been used safely for years.
How Botox and Xeomin work
When injected into specific facial muscles, both Botox and Xeomin block nerve signals that tell muscles to contract. This relaxation prevents the muscles from creating wrinkles when you make facial expressions like frowning or squinting.
The effects usually start to show within a few days and last for about three to four months. After that, the treatment can be repeated to maintain the smooth look.
Key differences between Botox and Xeomin
Even though Botox and Xeomin work similarly, there are some differences worth knowing:
Purity and additives
Botox contains accessory proteins along with the botulinum toxin. Xeomin is known as a “pure” botulinum toxin because it does not have these extra proteins. Some people believe this makes Xeomin less likely to cause resistance or allergic reactions.
Onset of results
Some patients report that Xeomin works a little faster, with results showing in 2-3 days, while Botox may take 3-5 days. The difference is small and varies by person.
Storage requirements
Botox needs to be refrigerated before use, while Xeomin is more stable and can be stored at room temperature. This can make Xeomin easier to handle in some clinics.
Cost
Xeomin is sometimes priced slightly lower than Botox, but prices vary by location and provider.
Which one is right for you?
Choosing between Botox and Xeomin depends on your skin, your goals, and your provider’s recommendation. Both treatments are effective for smoothing wrinkles and have similar safety profiles.
At Face It Smooth Aesthetics, for example, they Xeomin as part of their medical-grade skin treatments. Their experienced team can help you decide which option fits your needs best.
What to expect during treatment
Both Botox and Xeomin treatments are quick and minimally invasive. Here’s what usually happens:
The provider cleans the treatment area.
Small amounts of the toxin are injected with a fine needle into targeted muscles.
The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes.
You might feel a slight pinch or sting.
There is little to no downtime, and you can return to normal activities right away.
Results develop over a few days and last several months. Follow-up treatments keep your skin looking smooth.
Safety and side effects
Both Botox and Xeomin are safe when administered by trained professionals. Side effects are usually mild and temporary. They can include:
Minor bruising or swelling at injection sites
Headache
Drooping eyelid (rare and temporary)
If you have any medical conditions such as neurological issues or are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss these with your provider before treatment.

How Botox and Xeomin fit into a full skin care plan
While Botox and Xeomin help with wrinkles, they work best as part of a broader skin care routine. Medical spas like Face It Smooth Aesthetics also offer treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling, and laser therapy to improve skin texture, tone, and overall health.
Combining these treatments can give you a more youthful, radiant look that lasts longer.
Final thoughts on Botox and Xeomin
Both Botox and Xeomin are excellent choices for reducing wrinkles and refreshing your appearance. The main differences come down to the presence of accessory proteins, storage, and slight variations in how quickly they work.
If you want a trusted medical spa in Belfast, Maine, that offers these treatments along with a full range of skin care options, Face It Smooth Aesthetics is a great place to start. Their team focuses on giving every client a safe, effective, and personalized experience.
If you’re ready to explore what Botox or Xeomin can do for your skin, consider booking a consultation. A professional can guide you through the options and help you achieve the smooth, youthful look you want.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified provider before starting any treatment.




Comments