Short answer: Botox and Xeomin are both prescription botulinum toxin type A injectables that temporarily relax targeted facial muscles to soften wrinkles, but they aren’t interchangeable unit-for-unit. This quick guide covers how they differ, what each costs at Sakura Skin, and how to choose.
The Core Difference, in One Sentence
Xeomin is a “naked” formula without the accessory proteins that Botox contains, which may make it less likely to trigger antibody resistance over time. Both are considered safe and effective when administered by a trained provider.
Which One Should You Choose?
- New to anti-wrinkle treatment? Either product is a reasonable starting point, and your provider’s clinical judgment matters more here than the brand.
- Noticed Botox wearing off faster than it used to? Some patients who’ve built up antibody resistance to Botox find Xeomin’s “naked” formula works better for them.
- Want the most researched, longest-standing option? Botox has the longer track record and is the most widely studied botulinum toxin product on the market.
- Sensitive to added proteins? Xeomin’s simpler formulation is worth discussing with your provider.
Do Botox and Xeomin Use the Same Number of Units?
No. Units aren’t standardized across brands, so a unit of Botox and a unit of Xeomin aren’t automatically equivalent. Your provider will determine dosing based on the specific product used, not a straight swap between the two.
Botox vs Xeomin Cost at Sakura Skin
At Sakura Skin, Xeomin is $10 per unit or $445 flat for the full upper face, and Botox is $14 per unit or $645 flat. The flat fee covers the forehead, frown lines and crow’s feet up to the FDA-approved dose. A $95 consultation is applied to your treatment. To see which pricing works out cheaper for you, read per-unit vs. flat-fee pricing.
Do Results Look or Last Differently?
For most people, no. Both start working within a few days and reach full results at about two weeks. At equivalent doses, studies comparing them have found similar results lasting about three to four months. More on that in how long Botox and Xeomin results last.
Are the Side Effects Different?
The common side effects are the same for both: some redness, small bumps or a little bruising where the needle went in, and sometimes a mild headache. Less often, a brow or eyelid can feel heavy for a few weeks. Both carry the same FDA safety warning, which is one reason they should only be given by a trained medical provider.
Can You Switch Between Them?
Yes. Many patients try both over time. Just tell your provider what you’ve had before, how many units, and how long it lasted, so your next dose can be planned well.
Ready to Decide? Let Your Provider Guide You
The right choice ultimately comes down to your treatment history, how your body has responded to either product before, and your provider’s clinical judgment. See pricing and book on our Botox and Xeomin page, or call (810) 512-2496. We have locations in Fenton and Flint, MI, and can walk you through which option fits your goals.