Daxxify or Botox: Which is Right for Me?

Botox® was the first neuromodulator approved for cosmetic use, and despite brands like Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin that have been introduced over the years, Botox has remained the most popular injectable to smooth expression-based lines and wrinkles. 

However, since Daxxify™ hit the market in early 2023 with a unique formula and longer-lasting results, many of my loyal Botox users and patients considering neuromodulators for the first time are asking which product is right for them. Here, I’ll share some key differences between Botox and Daxxify and identify who might be the best candidate for each.

Differences in Botox vs. Daxxify

Both Botox and Daxxify use botulinum toxin type A as their primary active ingredient, but there are other subtle differences between the two brands, including: 

• Formulation: Most notably, Botox uses accessory proteins as a stabilizer, while Daxxify uses a peptide—this means that Daxxify does not contain animal byproducts. 
• Onset of effects: Botox typically takes effect after 4-7 days; Daxxify takes effect between 2-3 days on average. Full results are visible after about 2 weeks for both brands. 
• Results: Botox typically shows visible results for about 3-4 months, while Daxxify results can last up to 6 months for some patients and as long as 9 months for others. 

Who should choose Botox?

If you are new to Botox-type injectables, I recommend you start with Botox. Its safety profile, efficacy, and suitability for a wide range of patients make it a reliable choice. Because Daxxify is newer and has the potential to last between 6-9 months, its predictability is less established, especially when you haven’t yet experienced the effects of botulinum toxin. Although data from clinical trials did not find that adverse side effects after Daxxify lasted significantly longer compared to Botox, I find having a shorter, more predictable timeline of how long a product will last is preferable when starting neuromodulator treatments.

For my seasoned Botox users who are happy with their results and 3-4 office visits a year for touch-up injections, stay the course if desired. I’ve used Botox at my Seattle cosmetic surgery practice for over 15 years and will continue to use and recommend this brand for the foreseeable future.

For some patients, an appointment every 3-4 months can be convenient if you also receive other routine medspa treatments, such as dermal fillers, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, laser skin resurfacing, laser hair removal, laser vein treatments, or skin tightening treatments, as we can usually perform these treatments along with your Botox injections within the same appointment.  

Who benefits most from Daxxify?

I’ve found that Daxxify is an excellent option for patients who are already familiar with the effects of neuromodulators and would like to extend the time between injections without seeing diminished results. Many patients (and providers!) have lamented the 3-4 month cap on visible results with other brands, making Daxxify a game-changer for patients with busy schedules who prefer fewer office visits each year to maintain their anti-aging results. 

Daxxify results can last up to twice as long as other Botox-type injectables.

Daxxify is also an excellent option for those seeking treatment for hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) or other conditions where fewer injections can make a significant difference in comfort and convenience.

Additionally, because Daxxify is manufactured without animal byproducts, it is an effective alternative for the very small percentage of Botox users who develop antibodies against the product and thus experience underwhelming results or “Botox resistance.” 

“As someone who has been a loyal customer of this cosmetic clinic for several years, I can’t help but sing their praises. The experience at this clinic has consistently been exceptional, and I attribute much of that to the incredible skill of Dr. Sobel who truly functions as an artist in the field.

Dr. Sobel’s expertise is unparalleled, and every visit is like my face is a canvas where he works his magic. The botox and fillers were administered expertly, enhancing my natural features while maintaining a very natural look. I was pleasantly surprised by how little discomfort I felt during the treatments.”

—5-star Google Review

Dr. Alex Sobel is a triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon and expert injector with over 15 years of experience helping patients rejuvenate their appearance with surgical and non-surgical procedures at his Bellevue cosmetic surgery office. If you are interested in adding Botox to your skincare plan or considering a switch to Daxxify, Dr. Sobel would be delighted to meet with you and help guide your decision. Whether you opt for the long-standing reliability of Botox or the extended duration of Daxxify, the goal remains the same: to achieve safe, naturally beautiful results tailored to your unique needs.

Please call Anderson Sobel Cosmetic Surgery at 425-453-9060 or contact us online to schedule your consultation today!