Key Takeaways
What you need to know
- Botox treats lines caused by movement (dynamic wrinkles).
- Fillers restore lost volume and smooth static folds.
- Botox lasts 3–4 months; hyaluronic fillers often 6–18 months.
- Many people benefit from a combination of both.
Botox and dermal fillers are both injectables, but they do completely different things. Choosing the right one depends on what's causing the lines or changes you see.
How Botox works
Botox is a neuromodulator. It temporarily relaxes specific muscles so they can't crease the skin as strongly. It's best for dynamic wrinkles, the lines that appear when you move your face.
- Forehead lines
- Frown lines between the brows ("11s")
- Crow's feet
- Also used for jaw clenching and excessive sweating
How fillers work
Dermal fillers, most commonly hyaluronic acid, add volume under the skin. They're best for volume loss and static folds, which are visible even when your face is at rest.
- Lips
- Cheeks and midface
- Smile lines (nasolabial folds)
- Marionette lines and chin
- Under-eye hollows (in select patients)
Want refreshed, younger-looking skin?
From HydraFacials to laser resurfacing — our team will create a custom skin plan just for you.
How long they last
Botox typically lasts 3–4 months. Hyaluronic acid fillers last roughly 6–18 months depending on the product and area. Hyaluronic fillers can also be dissolved if needed.
Using both together
Many patients get Botox for the forehead and eyes plus filler for the cheeks or lips. Together they create a balanced, refreshed look without looking "done."
Next steps
Curious about pricing? Read our Botox cost guide, or visit our Botox & fillers page to book a consultation.
Part of our Botox & Fillers guide. For the complete picture, including treatment options, costs and FAQs, read Botox & Dermal Fillers: A Clear Guide to Natural-Looking Results.
The Bottom Line
Botox relaxes muscles; fillers restore volume. Here's how to tell which one fits your concern, or whether you need both.
Kenna Graff, FNP-C
Kenna Graff is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Director at Renova Wellness. She brings expertise in metabolic health, hormone optimization, and regenerative medicine, with a passion for helping patients look and feel their best through personalized treatment plans.
Editorial Process: Initial content ideas and drafts may be generated with the assistance of AI language models. Every article is then thoroughly reviewed, edited, and medically verified by our clinical team before publication to ensure accuracy, relevance, and alignment with current medical standards.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
